Ask Honest John

Most recently answered reliability questions
With the weather becoming more unpredictable and winter soon upon us I've been looking at a 1999 P38 DT 2.5 DSE with the BMW engine. 1. Are there any known common faults with that engine? 2. Is the engine...
I am considering buying a 1-3 year old used VW T Cross, T Roc or Taigo with a DSG gearbox. I have read the DSG horror stories and it seems that even these newer cars suffer from issues. Is this correct?...
I am thinking of buying a 2019 C4 Cactus, I have read that there are some cambelt issues, can you please advise on when you should change cambelt on these cars and should I be wary of them? And also is...
I’ve had few cars over the years and am currently running a Subaru Outback 3.0-litre at 142k. 25 mpg and top rate VED with inevitable big bills ahead - do I stick or twist? We do 30k plus a year, rural...
Should I be concerned about a high mileage petrol EcoTSI engine? The car I'm looking at appears to be ex fleet, as it covered 90,000 miles in it's first three years, and then a further 20,000 in the next...
I am contemplating buying a 2022 Ford Focus with an auto gearbox. Have Ford sorted the earlier auto box problems?
We are looking to buy a car with a budget between of between £8k to £12k. We will be covering between 4000 to 5000 miles every year. We are pensioners and so are looking for a reliable car that's easily...
Are DSG gearboxes on Skoda yeti reliable?
I've just paid £685 to have a fuel injector replaced on my 64-plate Touran with 49,800 miles on the clock. Earlier this year I had to have all the glow plugs and a wheel sensor replaced (£700+). The car...
I have a lovely 2011 Mercedes A160 Blue Efficience petrol. It has 78,000 miles and enjoy driving it. I have been offered a 2015 Ford Fiesta Titanium X, 34,000 miles, one owner, £0 road tax, much more economical,...