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Previously answered questions

How much for crankshaft seal on a Saab?

How much should it cost to replace a crankshaft oil seal on a 2004 Saab 9-3 2.0-litre petrol Turbo?

Gene Lett (Donegal)

Jul 2010 Filed under: servicing

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Peugeot 407, VW Passat or Mazda6?

Hi lads,

Any thoughts on the Peugeot 407 1.6-litre diesel? Seems to be great value. Looking at that or either a 2007 Volkswagen Passat or Mazda6.

I have heard mixed reports on all at this stage. Budget is tight so swaying to the 407 as seems to be a lot of spec etc.

Thanks,

Mick

Michael Mulvey (Ashbourne)

Jul 2010 Filed under: choosing used car

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What will I replace my 5 Series with?

Hi Complete Car,

I am upgrading my car. My budget is around the €25k mark. First off, I'm no expert, but I do know I'm not much into speed and performance; I'm more into comfort and style and I prefer European cars over Asian ones (Honda and Lexus being possible exceptions). I'm a big person myself, over six-foot three so leg- and head room are important.

For the last few years I have had a BMW 5 Series and have always liked BMW so I'm leaning that way. Currently thinking about a BMW 6 Series: there are some '05s floating around that fit the bill.

Question: is the 6 any good? Should I stick to the 5 Series (although I'm not a fan of the recent models in terms of looks)?

I'd be interested to know if you think there are other makes and models I should be looking at. I have tried a few Alfas - 159, Brera and GT - but they didn't grab me, were generally too small and always have that 'rep' associated with them (rightly or wrongly).

I'm not keen on hunting for cars in the UK (the hassle), but is that actually a no-brainer I'd be stupid to ignore?

Should I be looking at a brand new car?

Thanks for your time, and a great car website; the best in my opinion,

Stephen

 

Stephen Moriarty (Dublin)

Jul 2010 Filed under: choosing used car

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What's the Mercedes-Benz Viano like?

Can you tell me anything about the reliability and safety of the Mercedes-Benz Viano? NCAP results are from a test on the 2008 model and we are looking at an 06 or 07. Also I've read about recalls on the Viano so wondering if they are likely to cause trouble or what should be check before buying. Thanks very much!

Leah Donnelly (Dublin)

Jul 2010 Filed under: choosing used car

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Reliability issues with Passat?

I am thinking of a 05/06 diesel Passat, but am worried about reliability issues. I have heard about clutch problems and bulbs blowing constantly on these cars. What is your opinion? Also is there any other car you would recommend in this category? Mondeo, Octavia, A4?

Cyril Cleere (Kilkenny)

Jun 2010 Filed under: choosing used car

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Is there any reason to avoid UK imports?

Is there any reason to avoid UK imports? We are looking for a MPV and just wondering if UK imports are as safe an option as Irish cars or is it a more complicated purchase with potential risks? Thanks

Patricia McGuire (Dublin)

Jun 2010 Filed under: importing

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Safe to replace seatbelts?

Would you consider it safe to replace the seat belts on a car? I am looking at a second-hand car that needs two seat belts replacing (due to wear and tear from baby sets apparently), but am concerned about whether the replacements will ever be completely effective. Also, would you consider it a concern that the seat belts were damaged in the first place? The look like they were cut half way accross with a knife or something.

Thank you.

Patricia McGuire (Dublin)

Jun 2010 Filed under: safety

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What is the NCAP score for the pre-2006 Ford Galaxy?

I am looking for information regarding the safety rating of the old model (pre-2006) Ford Galaxy. I know the new model got five stars in the NCAP tests, but I cannot find an NCAP rating for the old Galaxy. I believe it is almost the same as the VW Sharan, which only got three stars for the 1999 model, so is it safe to assume the pre-2006 Galaxy is about the same? Many thanks.

 

Patricia McGuire (Dublin)

Jun 2010 Filed under: safety

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What are the costs of importing a used car from the UK?

Other than the car itself and the transportation costs, what are the costs involved in importing a used car from the UK?

Paul Kieran (Dublin)

Apr 2010 Filed under: importing

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VW Golf trade-in value?

What should the trade-in value of a 2007 VW Golf 1.4 Sport with 50,000km be in return for a new 1.6 Highline Golf?

Martin Walsh (Carrick On Suir)

May 2010 Filed under: used car values

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4,962 Irish motoring queries answered to date

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