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Previously answered questions

Should I replace my Zafira with a Volvo V60?

Hi.,

Looking at a 2016 (162) Volvo V60 D6 Hybrid AWD, with less than 6K miles, (9.5k kilometres) on the clock. It is a demo model. Reviews tell me that I should avoid this car, primarily because of price. With a cash price tag of €36K on this car from a dealership I am inclined to think that the value is more acceptable. Does this price raise your two-star rating?  With three children approaching teenage, they have outgrown the Opel Zafira and so other options I am considering include the XC60.

All advice appreciated.

Padraig Coffey (Killarney)

Jul 2017 Filed under: choosing used car

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Belt or chain in 2014 Opel Insignia?

2014 Opel Insignia 170hp Elite: can you tell me if it's a timing chain or timing belt? If it's a belt, what is the mileage or age to replace?

Noel Murphy (Kilkenny)

Jul 2017 Filed under: servicing

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How reliable is the Mercedes C-Class?

How reliable is the Mercedes-Benz C 220 CDI SE Executive?

Seamus O'Callaghan (Raheen)

Jul 2017 Filed under: reliability

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Looking for differences in Audi A5s.

Is there much difference between 177hp Audi A5 S line and 150hp Audi Sportback SE Technik? Also, some cars show a dial positioned just below the gear knob for controls while other models show no dial, but a display on the dash. Why is this considering they are the same year?

Gavin Reddy (Carlow)

Jul 2017 Filed under: choosing used car

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Looking for something fun and petrol...

Hey guys, looking to upgrade from a 2008 Honda Civic Type S for something a little more comfortable for long journeys but still quite fun and cool. Any advice?

I abhor diesel engines and any help is appreciated!

Peter White (Mayo)

Jun 2017 Filed under: performance

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What fun petrol hatch for €5,000?

I'm a newly full licenced driver at the ripe old age of 30, I haven't owned a car in 10 years so I'm looking at getting a used car for €4-5k, but due to insurance I'm limited to cars 1.6-litre or less. I want a petrol hatchback and would love something fun to drive yet affordable to run and good for motorways on the odd occasion so 1.0-litre shoeboxes would be a no no.

Any suggestions?

John Ward (Galway)

Jun 2017 Filed under: choosing used car

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Which luxury car for my chauffeur business?

Hi guys,

I'm in the market for a used car for my chauffeur business. Budget is low as with any business starting out so I've narrowed my choice down to these cars: 2007/8 Mercedes-Benz E-Class CDI 220/270/280, 2007/8 Lexus GS 450h/300, 2008 Audi A8 3.0-litre TDI or 2008/9 Jaguar XF diesel. I have a feeling that the Lexus is the most reliable, but also the most costly fuel wise and the boot is quite small for luggage too. I've been told the facelifted E-Class is very good and reliable as all issues where rectifified with the W211. I don't know too much about the Audi A8 or the Jaguar XF.

Any advice please?

Kev Dillon (Dublin)

Jun 2017 Filed under: choosing used car

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Will our broken Nissan be ok for scrappage?

Hi... our automatic gearbox has gone on our 2013 Nissan Note. Instead of spending money getting it fixed will dealers accept it for a scrappage deal against a new car?

Dwayne Reck (Wexford)

Jun 2017 Filed under: scrappage

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Looking at a 2010 Ford Focus today...

Hi, I am looking at a 2010 Ford Focus 1.6 diesel today; it's in excellent condition looking at pictures - obviously I'll know more when I see it. They are asking for €5,900 for the car. Full service and history check. New NCT just done. All stamps and book with car for service history. Is this a good buy do you reckon? I don't intend on paying the full asking price.

Paula Mangan (Meath)

Jun 2017 Filed under: choosing used car

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Should I go for a new Alfa Romeo Giulia?

Hi,

I am contemplating buying an Alfa Romeo Giulia and was hoping to get thoughts from a local motoring journalist. Would you recommend it? I've done a fair bit of homework comparing it against the likes of a BMW 3 Series or Jaguar XE and it really seems to stand up well. While the others offer lower hp engines etc, when you actually compare like for like (e.g. auto 150hp/180hp/200hp), the price difference/levels of standard spec seem worlds apart.

I'm looking at the Super Sport trim and when I spec up an equivalent M Sport, the price difference works out at around €5k.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Donal (Dublin)

Donal Dennehy (Dublin)

Jun 2017 Filed under: choosing new car

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4,962 Irish motoring queries answered to date

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