http://www.honestjohn.co.uk Honest John forum en-gb Wed, 08 May 2024 23:37:42 +0000 Copyright: (C) www.honestjohn.co.uk 5 hjforum1486701 Wed, 08 May 2024 23:40:10 +0000 Hi original poster, please can you update me with this? I’m literally in the same situation now. My car is sorn but on the side of my house. Was ready for sc*** and now it’s clamped. It’s not worth £260 to get it out. I would rather let them take it but don’t want them to come at me with thousands of pounds worth of fines ? Motoring discussion Alicia Lynott Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=157041 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=157041&v=t&m=1486701 hjforum1486700 Wed, 08 May 2024 23:01:33 +0000 Dacia Duster is the obvious choice. From what I've seen of the Duster I am not impressed by the boot space in what looks like quite a chunky car, tho it can have useful roof bars. Motoring discussion Andrew-T Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486700 hjforum1486699 Wed, 08 May 2024 22:31:59 +0000 One key piece of advice-whatever car you buy get seriously tough tyres -pot holes every half mile need professional rubber-big time.   Indeed - and avoid models of a anything with lower profile tyres- fortunately bobby basic versions usually are shod in higher profile rubber.  Any versions that have higher ride height might be better as well - eg Kia Xceed compared to the Ceed.    PS avoid anything with run flat tyres. The Dacia Duster has been mentioned which might be a good call although I seem to remember early Dacia's were known for a  hard ride? Stage left suggestion - Suzuki S-Cross?  It came on my radar recently for a different reason - in that I fit! Actually I was impressed and it's still on "the list"             Motoring discussion Big John Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486699 hjforum1486697 Wed, 08 May 2024 21:04:23 +0000 SWMBO has a Vitara (1.0 Turbo) and it seems very robust and simple compared to many newer cars - in a good way. Has a manual handbrake and manual 5 speed 'box and a basic touchscreen but does have Android Auto / Carplay.  Only negative is that this SZ-T version has the 17" wheels with 55 profile tyres which can be a bit crashy especially since the car is so light.  If you are not bothered about Android Auto and built-in satnav etc then I would recommend the SZ4 version with 16" 60 profile tyres which will be more compliant  / softer ride over bumps and even cheaper.  Has good ground clearance and reasonable sized rectangular shaped boot space. Probably will manage 45-50mpg from both the older 1.6 or 1.0 turbo and 40-45mpg in the 1.4 turbo which is probably the one to go for with your budget for the better performance? Motoring discussion spog69 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486697 hjforum1486696 Wed, 08 May 2024 19:03:19 +0000 One key piece of advice-whatever car you buy get seriously tough tyres -pot holes every half mile need professional rubber-big time. Agreed - worth getting XL-rated tyres even if the car doesn't specify them, they have thicker sidewalls Motoring discussion RT Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486696 hjforum1486695 Wed, 08 May 2024 18:55:58 +0000 One key piece of advice-whatever car you buy get seriously tough tyres -pot holes every half mile need professional rubber-big time. Motoring discussion FoxyJukebox Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486695 hjforum1486694 Wed, 08 May 2024 18:44:06 +0000 The previous version of the Compass was famously unpleasant.  The one before that seems to have been bad all round.  I did consider one of the new (2017 on) ones recently but couldn't find one that met my various criteria.  By all accounts they're fairly decent.  To my eye, they're more handsome than the competition. I always find it a bit strange when I see videos of Americans slating European cars.  I suppose we place a much higher value on fuel economy and the ability to go round corners whereas they stick to the formula of making everything very substantial and slinging a huge petrol engine in there. Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130&v=t&m=1486694 hjforum1486693 Wed, 08 May 2024 17:56:31 +0000 FWIW HJ indicates that the 2020 Compass that the OP is after was released in 2018. Obviously that doesn't mean the build quality is any better :) https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/jeep/ afaik the model was released in 2016 but possibly not imported into the UK later. & the hire car that I got was very low mileage so the quality could not be blamed on age/misuse.   Motoring discussion Heidfirst Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130&v=t&m=1486693 hjforum1486692 Wed, 08 May 2024 17:51:27 +0000 You mean a car that is pure ICE but looks identical to the EV or hybrid options?  I assume.theres loads - Vauxhall Corsa? Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198134 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198134&v=t&m=1486692 hjforum1486691 Wed, 08 May 2024 17:50:21 +0000 LED lighting units are complicated electroncis and often poorly built.  The LED bulb may last tens of thousands of hours, but if other components don't its not a boast which can be relied upon. Repairing them means fault finding and dismantling fiddly electronics before replacing the faulty component. I've had two LED outside security lights, neither lasted more than 2 years.  I replaced it for a 250w halogen, which is what I had previously which needs a new bulb every 3-4 years. For comparison Outback rear light units were £250 and £150 a couple of years ago.  Part of the light is in the tailgate, hence the two components making up the unit. As I recall, some former electrical engineer colleagues (I was a mechanical engineer) of mine said much the same about at least the first two generations of commercially-available LED lights in the construction industry - nice lamps, r****** electronics and build quality. One one job, LED spot lamps (similar to those in k i t c h e n s) that should have been lasting 10 years were having to be replaced within 6-12 months. I remember going to a site visit prior to handover where loads of spots had to be replaced. Meanwhile, my 18yo car's lights (all of them) are still on their original halogen bulbs with no problems. Technical matters Engineer Andy Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133&v=t&m=1486691 hjforum1486690 Wed, 08 May 2024 17:47:51 +0000 Dacia Duster is the obvious choice.  Having been through the same thought process myself recently, I ended up with a Suzuki Vitara.  Lots of ground clearance, very light and little in the way of frills.  If you don't need the space, the same could be said of a Suzuki Ignis. Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486690 hjforum1486689 Wed, 08 May 2024 17:47:23 +0000 does he actually need a new tail light? iDon't know about the Subaru XV but iirc most are multiple light source/LEDs & you are allowed a % failure of units before being required to replace. Technical matters Heidfirst Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133&v=t&m=1486689 hjforum1486688 Wed, 08 May 2024 17:30:42 +0000 I've no reason to pontificate on this question, but I would guess that (as has been suggested) unless you go for a vehicle with some pretence to be an off-roader you aren't likely to find much difference.  What do the farmers use in your neck of the woods ? Motoring discussion Andrew-T Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486688 hjforum1486687 Wed, 08 May 2024 16:48:55 +0000 Many thanks for the reply.     Just a quick thought...  When I said MPV I was indeed referring to the van based ones like the Berlingo, Combo Life, etc.  So does that change anything?  How do they perform against a Dacia Duster, etc?     Ta Motoring discussion peanutstew Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486687 hjforum1486682 Wed, 08 May 2024 14:34:40 +0000 An MPV (other than possibly the van based ones) is unlikely to be any tougher than an average hatchback. They would probably survive less well than something like a Corsa because they are heavier so the suspension would have to work harder over the potholes. Some SUVs would be tougher, though many vehicles people think of as SUVs (Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage etc) are really just oversized hatchbacks so not necessarily tougher. Again these are often heavier too so the suspension has more work to do on a rough road. A proper SUV such as a Land Rover Defender or a pickup like a Toyota Hilux would survive better but these are a lot more expensive to buy and run if you don't need the towing or off-road capability. The best option may be to accept that suspension parts are going to be consumable and focus on finding something which is cheap to repair and fairly lightweight to.minimise the damage inflicted from the bumps. You will need something with a decent sidewall height though on the tyres which is becoming harder to find. The Dacia Duster would be a good bet (keep to the 2wd version and the repairs will be cheaper), as would a Suzuki Vitara or if you could have something smaller a Suzuki Ignis. Motoring discussion Ian_SW Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486682 hjforum1486681 Wed, 08 May 2024 14:15:05 +0000 Hi   I’m after any thoughts or suggestions on what car/vehicle to get, please, and thoughts on MPVs vs SUVs…       Here’s the low-down: - I live in a very rural area where the roads are in bad condition - It’s used mainly for short journeys of just a few miles - But a couple of times a year or so it will be needed for a motorway run of a few hundred miles - Annual mileage around 8k     It would be good to have: - A decent mpg (petrol) - Good road clearance - Good boot capacity  - Budget = around £12k. - No frills.  I’m not bothered with any fancy stuff, so the more basic the better.  Certainly don’t want to be paying extra for anything that’s fancy.         I had a Skoda Fabia Estate before, and now have a Corsa D.  Both seem to forever have problems with:  wishbone bushes, CV joints, drop links, shock absorbers, anti-roll bushes/links, suspension arms, etc…  Are MPVs and SUVs likely to better in this respect?  And if so, which of the two would be the best and not need frequent repairs?     Regarding SUVs, am open to suggestions but would be leaning towards a Dacia Duster…     Any thoughts or comments much appreciated.    Many thanks   Motoring discussion peanutstew Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198144&v=t&m=1486681 hjforum1486680 Wed, 08 May 2024 14:06:25 +0000 The use of wet cambelt system is becoming more popular. Certainly improvements have been made , but not sure what the long term reliability will be . Ford has redesigned the 1.0 ecoboost by using a chain drive to the cams but retains a wet belt for the oil pump . Honda is the only maker I know that have actually had a recall on the wet belt system on the Civic . Whatever you buy , make sure it comes with a cast iron warranty, preferably backed by the manufacturer. Technical matters elekie&a/c doctor Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198137 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198137&v=t&m=1486680 hjforum1486673 Wed, 08 May 2024 12:41:37 +0000 Car security cameras…?? Having had my previous car keyed front to back, I’m concerned about getting my car damaged…. See you can get car security camera that records from inside the car Anyone have any information/experience of these and could recommend a good one..? Thank you ?? Motoring discussion HarryLopp123 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198141 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198141&v=t&m=1486673 hjforum1486672 Wed, 08 May 2024 12:19:20 +0000 Hi   Many thanks for the replies.     I've just been checking out a YT video (about Corsa D and drop links) and it sounds the same as one of our sounds, although I think we may have more than one noise!  Also, if I bounce the car I hear a knock, as per 1:01 on the video.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGXJ73BvIxY     I've also just checked my last MOT certificate, and have these as advisories:     -  Suspension arm pin or bush worn but not resulting in excessive movement NSF    -  Suspension arm corroded but not seriously weakened NSF   Could something be going on with a combination of all these things?  To be honest, I don't now much about cars so don't know how related all these things are, or even if some things are the same but under different names!     Thanks again, any further thoughts much appreciated.   Technical matters peanutstew Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198092 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198092&v=t&m=1486672 hjforum1486668 Wed, 08 May 2024 11:18:21 +0000 Hi. I'm considering buying a 2020 Grandland X, 1.2, 24K miles, FSH. I am aware of the horror stories regarding the 'wet cam belt' design in these engines, which is also used in various Peugeot and Citroen models, for example. It seems pretty clear that there IS an 'issue', with early 'wet' cam belts - say 2017-2019 models? - being susceptible to deterioration and breaking up, allowing the resulting particles to block the oil pick-up pipe; no need to mention what this can do. What I don't know is whether this issue has now been resolved? Does anyone have the definitive answer, please?! I've read so many posts on this, but seen very few that have actual conclusions. For instance, I have read that an upgraded belt was introduced, possibly around 2019, but I don't know if this is correct? I've also read that the recommended oil viscosity has been altered from 5W30 to 0W30 (something like that), but I also don't know if this is correct? And, even if it is, then a slight change to the oil viscosity is certainly not a 'cure'! So, what's the 'truth'? What are the facts? Have these engines been recalled for this issue? Can I go ahead and buy a 2020 model with reasonable confidence?! Thanks :-)   Technical matters Scoodle Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198137 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198137&v=t&m=1486668 hjforum1486666 Wed, 08 May 2024 11:01:06 +0000 I think the answer is a 1.3 Honda Jazz 1.3 petrol - manual/auto The newer Jazz is Hybrid Petrol & Auto only -  but cost a lot more than the budget. Savings on fuel would be modest on a low mileage and the older petrol Jazz gives a choice of Auto & Manual.   Motoring discussion Falkirk Bairn Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198079 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198079&v=t&m=1486666 hjforum1486662 Wed, 08 May 2024 09:48:35 +0000 LED lighting units are complicated electroncis and often poorly built.  The LED bulb may last tens of thousands of hours, but if other components don't its not a boast which can be relied upon. Repairing them means fault finding and dismantling fiddly electronics before replacing the faulty component. I've had two LED outside security lights, neither lasted more than 2 years.  I replaced it for a 250w halogen, which is what I had previously which needs a new bulb every 3-4 years. For comparison Outback rear light units were £250 and £150 a couple of years ago.  Part of the light is in the tailgate, hence the two components making up the unit. Technical matters daveyjp Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133&v=t&m=1486662 hjforum1486659 Wed, 08 May 2024 07:43:41 +0000 Looking at supermini/small car that's  used and max 4 years old BUT a traditional ICE and sharing same facelift  as sister hybrid/EV models?. A lot of the manufacturers hiked prices as they only seemed to introduce hybrid even 4 years back. Thoughts? Motoring discussion SMConn Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198134 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198134&v=t&m=1486659 hjforum1486658 Wed, 08 May 2024 07:32:44 +0000 Everyone here assessed the Hybrid option and now realises thar approx 6000 miles a year (with a high percentage of that being around town) won't save more than £150 per year with Hybrid eg Yaris Above suggests (albeit a Hybrid was considered) that ICE would be fine if up to max 4 years old (maybe newer). Only downside is that the small cars thinking about seem to be Hybrid even in the last 2-4 years. Focus has to be up to 4 years old and ICE but also with option for PCP if that exists on used car? Thoughts Motoring discussion SMConn Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198079 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198079&v=t&m=1486658 hjforum1486657 Wed, 08 May 2024 07:13:09 +0000 Thankyou all for valued input. Appreciated Motoring discussion SMConn Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198079 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198079&v=t&m=1486657 hjforum1486653 Wed, 08 May 2024 02:57:27 +0000 Mr Eric O, who ought to know, is especially scathing about them https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahbPGHkq_PQ "I swear these newer Fiat Jeeps are the biggest pieces of junk on the road today. The plastic is brittle and these things fail faster than you can fix them but hey, I guess that is kinda my job right? " Motoring discussion edlithgow Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130&v=t&m=1486653 hjforum1486651 Wed, 08 May 2024 02:48:53 +0000 I dunno what could go wrong if you disconnect it (probably using a maintainer of some kind on the car) but I'm quite naive about the level of awfulness routinely now achieved by new cars, and routinely fail to appreciate it. Technical matters edlithgow Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198131 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198131&v=t&m=1486651 hjforum1486650 Wed, 08 May 2024 02:42:36 +0000 You cant drill a hole in it? Or is the problem that its controlled via a data bus rather than simply being a switched device? And/or "coded" to the car/ECU/whatever? Just morbid curiosity. I'm never likely to have one.   Technical matters edlithgow Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133&v=t&m=1486650 hjforum1486646 Tue, 07 May 2024 21:26:31 +0000 Sounds cheap to me compared to other cars . The problem with led lights is that they’re generally a sealed unit . You’d need to destroy it to gain access to the internal gubbins. It possibly is repairable, but the manufacturers have made it virtually impossible. Thanks for that, I am glad I just changed my (15 year old) car for a 10 year old car which is free from almost all of the 'new and wonderful improved technical features and driver aids.   Technical matters galileo Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133&v=t&m=1486646 hjforum1486644 Tue, 07 May 2024 19:30:39 +0000 Re Adam’s comment Suzuki have a standard three year from new warranty. However if has a fsh from a Suzuki dealer this can be extended each year if you have a  Suzuki franchise service until it’s 7 years old. This is service activated warranty. The only confusion I am aware of is that not every Suzuki dealer takes  part. I don’t know why they wouldn’t but some don’t. I wonder if they do that sort of thing - for possibly a longer period (10 years, maybe) for the current Toyota Corolla clone (aside from the sant nav phone pairing / iCE system, it appears), the Suzuki Swace?  Hardly a cheap car to buy, even second hand, but likely highly reliable in the long term and reasonable decent (and a comfortable ride) to drive. Motoring discussion Engineer Andy Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198128 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198128&v=t&m=1486644 hjforum1486641 Tue, 07 May 2024 16:26:11 +0000 Sounds cheap to me compared to other cars . The problem with led lights is that they’re generally a sealed unit . You’d need to destroy it to gain access to the internal gubbins. It possibly is repairable, but the manufacturers have made it virtually impossible. Technical matters elekie&a/c doctor Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133&v=t&m=1486641 hjforum1486640 Tue, 07 May 2024 16:14:14 +0000 A friend complained that he's been quoted £350 for a replacement light unit, is there any one who repairs these or is this yet another 'improvement' that we have had imposed on us at our expense? Technical matters galileo Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198133&v=t&m=1486640 hjforum1486638 Tue, 07 May 2024 15:11:35 +0000 Oh interesting, thanks. I assume a different broker?  I have spoken with someone from Stellantis today, he said that they're likely needing to check both the normal and the MHEV battery, as there are recalls currently on both.  His assumption was that they are going to be replacing the MHEV battery, hence waiting on the delivery of a new battery and this date was TBC, but it sounded like guesswork.  It sounded like he was working off fairly limited information as he only had the information from the processing centre.  Your date of Friday 17th May, aligns loosely with the 20th May I was told as anticipated week for resolving the issue, but not sure what that's based on.  If they have thousands of cars they need to test......     Motoring discussion TheActionVerb Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198025 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198025&v=t&m=1486638 hjforum1486637 Tue, 07 May 2024 14:54:31 +0000 FWIW HJ indicates that the 2020 Compass that the OP is after was released in 2018. Obviously that doesn't mean the build quality is any better :) https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/jeep/ Motoring discussion maz64 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130&v=t&m=1486637 hjforum1486636 Tue, 07 May 2024 14:39:37 +0000 I had one in the US as a hire car ~2016 - build quality was appalling. Motoring discussion Heidfirst Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130&v=t&m=1486636 hjforum1486635 Tue, 07 May 2024 12:43:44 +0000 This seems to be a global problem with all 3008 MHEV deliveries. Mine was supposed to be delivered last week and was delayed without any ETA. The broker said that the Peugeot factory have directly advised that no vehicles will be delivered between now and the 17th May. They have no updates as to when after that date they may be ready to deliver as they have hundreds, if not thousands vehicles to check. Motoring discussion pepe123 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198025 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198025&v=t&m=1486635 hjforum1486631 Tue, 07 May 2024 06:51:14 +0000 Are you looking at the link on a phone/mobile device, or PC/laptop? My phone says 3.0, laptop says 4.0 (Chrome and Edge). Motoring discussion maz64 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995&v=t&m=1486631 hjforum1486630 Tue, 07 May 2024 06:44:10 +0000 You think I'm making this up? How odd. And no, I'm not suggesting BMW would replace their 3 cylinder engine at all. Motoring discussion maz64 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995&v=t&m=1486630 hjforum1486629 Tue, 07 May 2024 06:08:43 +0000 Your link to the BMW site clearly said 3.0 cylinders and still does. Screen shot proves nothing. But why would they replace a well regarded 3 cylinder engine, would be totally pointless. Motoring discussion skidpan Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995&v=t&m=1486629 hjforum1486628 Mon, 06 May 2024 22:39:36 +0000 Apparently BMW have already got a new engine for the 118i - same power output, but 4 cylinders (see 'key performance data'): https://brochures.bmw.co.uk/1-series/performance :) Link clearly says 118i has 3.0 cylinders. If it did, I wouldn't have posted it :) So presumably you don't see this (link to screenshot in my google drive): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DLd0fwkqlThjRTV5FnyfcdSBFBpxF_sI/view?usp=drive_link   Motoring discussion maz64 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995&v=t&m=1486628 hjforum1486625 Mon, 06 May 2024 19:09:03 +0000 Thank you  Motoring discussion Kathryn Mark Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130&v=t&m=1486625 hjforum1486624 Mon, 06 May 2024 19:08:39 +0000 Thank you  Motoring discussion Kathryn Mark Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130&v=t&m=1486624 hjforum1486616 Mon, 06 May 2024 17:40:45 +0000 Same platform as a Fiat 500XL and Renegade so look at reviews of those as well.   Motoring discussion daveyjp Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198130&v=t&m=1486616 hjforum1486615 Mon, 06 May 2024 16:24:21 +0000   Those are hardly 'affordable' as I previously stated, plus they are either EVs (not renowned for their ability to rev and make noise) or hard-as-nails suspension (so they can handle well) cars, not ones that can easily double up as a 'daily drive' over speed humps and our 'lovely' pothole ridden roads without having to do so at walking pace (ironic). Many hot hatches of 'old' (even 10-15 years ago) still had a decent enough ride and where you didn't need to take out another car loan to afford your next set of tyres. Many ICE hot hatches will soon be out because environmental laws will make them way too expensive to buy or run, if they are even allowed into many bigger towns and cities when the inevitable ramping up of ULEZs comes.  Councils have already done it with diesels with making car parking for residents vastly more expensive (often affecting the least able to pay).  Of course, if you are rich, then, well... Frankly, most "cooking" models are faster than "warm" hatches from 15 years ago so if you want a well performing family car the choice is huge. There may well be less hatches but that is probably because manufacturers are making less hatches. The Fiesta is no more and soon the Focus will be the same way.  Sure the list prices are more but what isn't in life? It is called inflation.  I mentioned the MG4 X-Power. Maybe not everyone's cup of tea but you can get a nearly new one for £25k. In 2014 that would be the equivalent of £18500. If you can point me towards a hot hatch with 429bhp and 0-60 in 3.8 seconds which can also do the tip run you could have bought at a year old and 3000 miles in 2014 for £18500 then well done. There are plenty of other examples and, yes, more of them will be EVs but doesn't mean they are not hot hatches.  Motoring discussion pd Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995&v=t&m=1486615 hjforum1486614 Mon, 06 May 2024 16:22:16 +0000 I’m assuming you are referring to the 12 volt battery, then I really can’t see any problems using the Victron charger. Technical matters elekie&a/c doctor Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198131 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198131&v=t&m=1486614 hjforum1486612 Mon, 06 May 2024 15:41:29 +0000 Re Adam’s comment Suzuki have a standard three year from new warranty. However if has a fsh from a Suzuki dealer this can be extended each year if you have a  Suzuki franchise service until it’s 7 years old. This is service activated warranty. The only confusion I am aware of is that not every Suzuki dealer takes  part. I don’t know why they wouldn’t but some don’t. Motoring discussion catsdad Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198128 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198128&v=t&m=1486612 hjforum1486611 Mon, 06 May 2024 15:30:48 +0000 Apparently BMW have already got a new engine for the 118i - same power output, but 4 cylinders (see 'key performance data'): https://brochures.bmw.co.uk/1-series/performance :) (actually '4.0' cylinders - obviously you need to be precise) Link clearly says 118i has 3.0 cylinders. Others have 4 0. Motoring discussion skidpan Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995&v=t&m=1486611 hjforum1486610 Mon, 06 May 2024 15:29:29 +0000 I suppose the other option is Cinch.  There's a Kia Proceed there, a Mazda 6 and a few Toyota Aurises.  I know you said no hybrids, but a Toyota Hybrid is as reliable and long-lived as any other car, so what difference would it make? Is the later Auris affected by the CAT theft susceptibility (and thus huge bumps in insurance premiums) like the early 1st Honda Jazz, or was that the previous gen car? Maybe its stablemate (and as SLO will know, an efficient, highly reliable, long-lived car) the Avensis estate to add too? I'm also wondering if buying from ordinary people or well-cared for PXes - especially retired types giving up driving or buying their 'last car' (in that regard) might do? My local KIA dealer currently has (now reserved at £500 off the original listed price) a 2015 BMW 220i AT (TC auto) Luxury (only 25k on the clock and in excellent condition from the photos) going for £12.25k, only doing a few 1000 miles a year.  Obviously not the car or engine type (though not that bad if you don't floor it)  the OP wants, but condition and price-wise (nothing near an MOT failure either), not bad at all. Note also they are offering it (and some others) with a 12 month warranty rather than (presumably) just a 3 month one, presumably because it has a full dealership service history, no bodyshell corrosion or MOT failures, and perhaps a low mileage. They admittedly do have some not-so-good PXes (including one very high spec Range Rover they cannot get rid of despite significantly lowering the price), but sometimes the previous owner of a car just needs a complete change (or can afford it), even if their old car is still in great shape. Motoring discussion Engineer Andy Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198128 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198128&v=t&m=1486610 hjforum1486609 Mon, 06 May 2024 15:24:22 +0000 It would seem that VW don't want anyone to charge the battery in my car except an authorised dealer.  Given the extensive electronics I can understand their nervousness!  I have what I think is a very good battery charger (Victron Energy Blue Smart) which provides a wealth of charging options and appears to have a very good auto charging facility. Any views, advice or warnings would be very much appreciated. Technical matters UK-KR Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198131 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198131&v=t&m=1486609 hjforum1486608 Mon, 06 May 2024 15:08:46 +0000 I should have said - I'm currently the happy owner of a 2016 MINI Cooper (auto - my first), with no real justification for changing it, but that doesn't stop me thinking about it :) I do fancy a new one - mine has got climate but very little else, I even have to take my hands off the wheel to change the radio volume. But even the base spec new model has loads of kit, plus the advantage of a decent amount of rubber in the tyres to soften the ride. However I do like the idea of a 1 series, and if it had the new engine then there wouldn't be a drop in performance compared to my current MINI - it would cancel out the additional weight (I think, obviously no actual figures to back that up). The BMW 1 Series range isn't exactly short of engine/power options, Well... after the 118i with 136ps it's a bit of a leap up to the 128ti with 265ps. There's no 2 litre 120i like there was with the previous version of the 1 series. Seems a bit odd. Maybe BMW think owners will either be retired types wanting a car that's 'nippy' with the BMW 'prestige' and handling (rather like a Lexus) or the 'boy [or girl) racers' at any age who want a very hot hatch and can afford the high cost of purchase and ownership. Fewer and fewer makes are now doing 'warm' hatches, partly because they are no longer affordable (including running costs, e.g. insurance) to the same lot who used to buy cars like the mid 2000s Civic Type R, earlier gen Focus STs, etc.  Many makes are also rationalising their lineups to reduce costs. I suspect that apart from the German makes, the hot hatch era will be soon over, whether EVs take over fully in the next 5 years or so or not. MG4 X-Power? Hyundai N range? Toyota Yaris GR? Volvo Ex30 Performance? Plenty of hot hatches out there and more coming soon like GTi versions of VW I cars, Cupras etc. Looks quite healthy to me. Those are hardly 'affordable' as I previously stated, plus they are either EVs (not renowned for their ability to rev and make noise) or hard-as-nails suspension (so they can handle well) cars, not ones that can easily double up as a 'daily drive' over speed humps and our 'lovely' pothole ridden roads without having to do so at walking pace (ironic). Many hot hatches of 'old' (even 10-15 years ago) still had a decent enough ride and where you didn't need to take out another car loan to afford your next set of tyres. Many ICE hot hatches will soon be out because environmental laws will make them way too expensive to buy or run, if they are even allowed into many bigger towns and cities when the inevitable ramping up of ULEZs comes.  Councils have already done it with diesels with making car parking for residents vastly more expensive (often affecting the least able to pay).  Of course, if you are rich, then, well... Motoring discussion Engineer Andy Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197995&v=t&m=1486608