I bought a SEAT Altea XL 1.9 diesel Stylance new, at a good price, four years ago from Perry's of Aylesbury.

It has been serviced by Perry's throughout. It suits our needs, is enjoyable to drive and has been mostly reliable.

Expense has been moderate so far but having done 28,500 miles it was stated by Perry's when put in for its four-year/40,000-mile service last week that SEAT now also recommend a cam-belt change at this point. Cost would be about £500.

Though I decided not to have it done yet, two service advisors whom I trust advised not waiting too long. I had taken out a warranty with Warranty Direct and have just submitted a claim for £538 less £50 excess as an air-conditioning fan and sensor were found to have failed. (WD authorized the repair.)

I plan to continue the warranty for another year but front tyres are now down to 4 mm (rear tyres 6 mm), and no doubt brakes and/or exhaust will need renewal some time soonish. Would I be better to face wear and tear repairs and keep the Altea XL for two or three more years, or to sell it, e.g. through Sure Sell and buy new?

A Skoda Yeti or Hyundai ix35 are alternatives that I would consider.