Ask Honest John

Most recently answered diesel engines questions
I've noticed steam coming from the exhaust of my 2008 Vauxhall Vectra diesel. it is also losing water. Is the head gasket gone or is it something else.If its the head gasket what would a garage charge...
When I start my Mitsubishi Outlander from cold I get a whining noise that increases on acceleration and decreases when I slow down. It sounds like wind whistling through the trees. After 2/3 miles it stops....
My father has acquired a 2004 Nissan X-Trail. The service history only shows basic oil/filter changes for the past three years and there is no paperwork prior to that. Is there any critical maintenance...
I have a 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TDI. I am waiting for the emissions software upgrade, what are the likely consequences of not upgrading my car? Will it effect the MoT and resale value? My car is...
My 2012 Ford Focus 1.6 diesel has run approx 6000 miles since its engine oil change 10 months ago. The car is running very well and has good performance. After a long run to Cumbria the message "Engine...
The turbo hose has burst twice on my Land Rover Freelander 2. Have you heard of this before? Do you know of any preventative measures I could take?
Have you had any feedback on peoples' experience with the Kia Niro hybrid? I am replacing our diesel Venga as I require more refinement. I have had diesels for the past 30 years and like the torque and...
My Toyota RAV4 2.2 diesel is disappointing in its fuel economy and only averages at 27mpg. I would like to have something with similar versatility, comfort and quality, but better MPG. Can you help with...
I would like to buy a 2012 Ford Focus 1.6 diesel, but have read so many horror stories about the PSA 1.6 engine used in these. I've read that there are two versions of these engines, an 8v and a 16v. How...
Do you still recommend Addison Lee for buying a used Ford Galaxy? Just saw some negative comments on other websites. Is it worth getting a mechanic to check them out? How do you choose one over another?