Ask Honest John

Most recently answered automatics questions
I am considering buying a Fiesta Powershift. What is your view on the gearbox?
I purchased a Mercedes-Benz E320 CDI automaticin January and on a recent visit to a garage it exhibited the following faults: P220A The speed comparison of Y3/6n2 or Y3/6n3 is implausible P2502 The gear...
My automatic Ford Galaxy was towed off the ground. I was told it was the alternator. Not so - the car starts but gears are not engaging properly. Is it as a result of towing?
My wife broke her leg 5 months ago and can no longer drive a manual car. I have a new Landrover on order but the leadtime is 5 months. I would like to buy a small automatic for <£4K which I can sell again...
I have a Vauxhall Zafira Easytronic automatic and had loss of power while driving, recently it started doing it more often and was taken into Vauxhall Aldershot, they have said it needs a near clutch and...
As my wife is only five feet in height and of slender build it is difficult to find a suitable, safe car to drive because she sits so close to the airbag. If the airbag was deployed it is likely to cause...
I currently drive an Alfa Romeo Giulietta (Cloverleaf) that is 2 years old. It's not very well built and I would like a car that is automatic (my wife finds them much easier to drive), good for a new family...
What are known problems with 7 speed DSG gearboxes with hesitation on turning, starting off at low speed and going uphill after slow approach from main road? I have new (May) car and have suffered all...
My current car, a Honda Civic coupe, will be 13 years old next year. It will need a new cam belt and about £400 or £500 spent on it. I have really loved this car and it has not cost a lot to run. Now...
I am buying this car for my wife but during the test drive I noticed a significant lag between gear changes! Is this normal or is it a bad box? The Honda garage says it is normal and I should be more careful...