When should I pay for a mechanical inspection on a car I'm looking to buy?

I am looking to buy a used car, and am unsure about when, during the process, is best to pay for an independent mechanical inspection (such as offered by the RAC or AA). Of course, I would like to only...

Why does the RAC try to increase its insurance premiums upon renewal?

Regarding the email from PC of Lee, I received my RAC Insurance Renewal and the premium had gone up by £150 (with no claims in previous year except a small windscreen repair). I got onto their website...

Why is the RAC charging so much for replacement batteries?

I phoned the RAC for a quote this morning for a battery for my 2008 BMW 520D Sports Touring. A very pleasant and helpful young lady called Tracy quoted £291.99, fitted for free as I am a member. This seemed...

Why did the RAC offer me such heavy discounts upon cancellation?

I have been a RAC member since 1981 and received my renewal recently. This quoted £135 with members discount for Roadside and Recovery (personal basis for me and my wife). My motor insurer covers me for...

Does RAC Breakdown always drop its renewal premiums if you negotiate with them?

Last November I received my RAC Breakdown renewal notice for £147.50 less Membership Savings £80.75, net charge £66.75. I had to call them out before the renewal date of 1-1-11 and a Direct Debit of £120.15...

Why does the AA reduce its membership premiums so readily when negotiated with?

Regarding increases on AA renewal, my wife and I have dual cover and were asked for £163.86 to renew, reduced to £131.05 if we took out an AA credit card. I had a quote from the RAC for £95. On contacting...

Ripping yarns

I'm sure you have lots of readers who renew their AA membership automatically via direct debit each year. When they get their renewal notice they should see how much equivalent cover costs on line for...

Thanks to the RAC for a very competitive renewal quote.

I recently rang the RAC to change my payment details on my annual breakdown cover. Having been with them for a number of years, the cost was already reduced to £53 - but they then gave me an additional...

Is the RAC preparing to launch its own accident management service?

I think your readers should be made aware of a survey currently being circulated by the RAC via email. As with most online surveys, the questions are very carefully worded. The survey starts off by asking...

Thanks to the RAC for exceptional service when my Mercedes-Benz broke down in Portugal.

Regarding European breakdown cover, the compressor for the air conditioning unit of my 6-year-old Mercedes-Benz ML 270CDI failed, taking the V-belt and pulley with it. We had just crossed into NW Portugal...