What's the best family car to buy on a budget?

I am looking at buying a medium-sized family car. I have been looking at the Honda Jazz, Fords and Vauxhalls. My budget is around £2000 but I'm looking for something that is reliable and on the cheaper...

Ford Focus Mk2 - timing belt or chain?

I have just bought a 60 plate Ford Focus Mk2 1.6 TDCI and I was wondering if it has a timing chain or belt and when this would need replacing. I do not have any paperwork to show the timing belt has been...

What should I buy to replace a Ford Focus?

Our Ford Focus 1.8 Edge has just passed its MoT with 160,000 miles and still goes like a rocket - everything works. The engine has never been apart and it has the same clutch, exhaust, alternator etc....

Should I pay for a gearbox oil change?

I own an 2007 Ford Focus. It's done 150,000 miles and never had an oil change, should this have been done? Is it too late to do this?

I need to buy an diesel car on a £1000 budget. What's going to be reliable?

I'm looking to buy a Ford Focus diesel as I drive an average of 600 miles per week for my job. Budget of about £1000 so 2004 to 2009 model years. Which is the best, most reliable diesel engine at this...

Should I claim for windscreen damage on my insurance or pay for it myself?

I bought a 2005 Ford Focus with a cracked windscreen. It has no MoT and I've not put it on my insurance yet. Is it best for me to pay £160 to replace the windscreen or put the car on my insurance and then...

Is it possible to service a new car yourself?

I'm about to upgrade to a much newer Ford Focus. I have serviced my previous Focus myself for 10 years. What problems am I likely to come across with a three year old car? Is it still possible to service...

Would it be cheaper to get insurance on a Group 1, new car or an older car?

I'm preparing to return to the road after a DDI ban - first (and last) offence, incurred accidentally. Obviously insurance is going to be an issue, but would you suggest buying a more modern (and more...

Should I just keep my 2003 Focus or buy a new car?

My car is a Ford Focus Zetec 1.6 with 55,000 miles. It is garaged overnight. I have had it from six months old and do 3000 miles a year, mainly short local runs and a few trips a week of 15 miles at 70mph....

I want a practical second car, would I be best taking out a multi-car policy?

I've had my Mazda MX5 for 15 years and have no intention of parting with it, but the load/tow car to which I've had access when necessary will soon become unavailable. I have a mind to buy something cheap...