http://www.honestjohn.co.uk Honest John forum en-gb Sun, 28 Apr 2024 03:12:07 +0000 Copyright: (C) www.honestjohn.co.uk 5 hjforum1486260 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 03:48:53 +0000 Hi there, I just had the misfortune of blowing a tyre on a pot hole at 2am. RAC quoted up to 4 hours just to tow me home, so after the tyre repair kit failed, I got a 24 hour mobile tyre replacement service out. After replacement the tyre pressure warning wouldn’t go away, and eventually on the way home this changed to “TPW NOT AVAILABLE”. It was only after resetting the tyre pressure as “ok” that I realised this message means the car thinks I have a spare wheel on, which I don’t. The PSI was set to 32 when it should have been 33 (which I didn’t realise at the time) - could that be the cause? The car drove home fine but just a bit worried now (but equally reluctant to shed out anymore than the £300 already lost - wish me luck with my council pot hole claim!!) TIA. P.S. please be kind if I’m being stupid - not a pleasant experience for a lone female in the middle of the night in the pouring rain! Technical matters littleonexo Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198104 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198104&v=t&m=1486260 hjforum1486259 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 00:40:29 +0000 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sgyLj4jiE4Qjlx6iQSyMlj3AO4Pq5kXG/view?usp=drive_link Technical matters P Adams Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=52909 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=52909&v=t&m=1486259 hjforum1486258 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 23:21:31 +0000  I've been looking at C1/Aygo,    Good cars with the 1.0 engine (avoid the 1.2) and the Peugeot 107/108 based on the same platform. Check for rust especially where rear sills meet the rear wheel arches. If ok rustproof after removing the rear rubber bungs. I'm a fan of the Citigo/Mi/Up as well with the good EA211 engine.       Motoring discussion Big John Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103&v=t&m=1486258 hjforum1486257 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 22:13:43 +0000 Wee i10 Hyundai is a good option. Simple chain driven engine has no real vices. Rust underneath is the only worry so you need to look underneath and check the Mot history for rot. Otherwise brilliant little cars. http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202404078392544 Mega low miles Vauxhall Viva that’s apparently lived most at of its life in sunny Engerland. http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202404028219456 Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103&v=t&m=1486257 hjforum1486254 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 18:38:45 +0000 Here are some Autrader candidates; 202404238980137  Tidy Peugeot 107 with long MOT and nothing of worry in MOT history. Simple, reliable (Daihatsu engine in this), very cheap to run.  202404098467305  Peugeot 108, just a facelifted and newer version of the above. Same engine same low running costs. Nothing that would overly concern me in the MOT history, though current MOT runs out in August.  202404249015538  Toyota Aygo this time, but same under the skin as the two above (and the Citroen C1). Long MOT, but curiously went untested for a year. Maybe needs tyres before next test. 202404158676214  2nd gen Ford Ka here, these were based on the Fiat Panda/500 and uses the tried and tested 1.2. Nothing too concerning in the MOT history but current one runs out at the end of Oct. 202403047213236  Honda Jazz, bit older and MOT runs out at the start of Sept, but nothing of much concern in the MOT history. And these are very reliable. The above are private, arguably a better choice if on a lower budget as (in theory) the owner isn't trying to profit. But of course there is less choice, so here are a few from traders; 202402196724659  Another 2nd gen Ford Ka. Current MOT till Oct, but MOT history very good. 202404158664207  Fiat 500 with long MOT and, apart from a failure on front discs this year, MOT history is very good. 202404168691790  Dacia Sandero with long MOT. MIL mentioned in 2022 but otherwise nothing of concern. Basic no nonsense transport with a simple and reliable 1.2 Renault engine, but more space than everything mentioned so far apart from the Jazz. 202404108508418  Fiat Panda with long MOT and good MOT history. Personally, I prefer the Panda to the 500 (or 2nd gen Ka), but the same car underneath. All the above were searched using a random Sterling postcode and are within 50 miles. There are plenty other trade sales, but that's all I could be bothered with for now!   Motoring discussion badbusdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103&v=t&m=1486254 hjforum1486252 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 16:32:01 +0000 I understand £5,000 isn't much these days. I remember paying £2,500 for my 2010 Fiat Punto Evo in 2018 and I've seem some still around the same price! I live in Stirling, Scotland, which probably limits my options even more. However, my parents live in Barnsley, South Yorkshire and they're willing to go look at any cars around their area also. Thanks for your help Motoring discussion Samuala Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103&v=t&m=1486252 hjforum1486250 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 13:58:52 +0000 Hi. Sadly £5,000 isn’t a lot of money when cars are concerned these days, prices have gone mad and what was £2,500 is now £5,000. We could recommend cars to fit your requirements but much depends on what is for sale nearby at the time. You are right to get shot of the DS though, they’re not reliable things at all. Stick with simple non-turbocharged petrol cars, preferably of Japanese design for the best chance. Give me your rough location and I’ll look for possibilities nearby. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103&v=t&m=1486250 hjforum1486249 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 13:55:33 +0000 Hi everyone,  Last year I purchased a DS3 Prestige 1.6 BlueHDi (99) with 63k miles for £6,500. Its comfortable and frugal and has mod cons. Unfortunately, in the past year I've experienced so many issues with the car, the most recent being a fault with the Adblue system and I've spent close to £2,500 in repairs and maintenance. Therefore, I have made the decision to look for a replacement. I originally bought the DS3 for motorway journeys to and from work. I now work from home, so motorway miles are limited and possibly the longest journey I would do during the week is 30 miles. I'm looking for something that is reliable and cheap to repair if any problems do arise. Sub £5,000 and low mileage preferably.  I'm not sure my budget would stretch to a Jazz or Yaris, so I've been looking at C1/Aygo, Picanto, i10. I've been checking MOT history on the vehicles I've found in my price range and noticed a few Picantos/i10s with deterioted brake pipes in early years and "Engine MIL inoperative" appear a few times.  Looking for people's opinions on what to look for and if anyone has any other suggestions. Appreciate your help. Motoring discussion Samuala Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198103&v=t&m=1486249 hjforum1486248 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 13:47:35 +0000 I like “her” Renegade a bit too much. Just been out in it and I love it every time. Can’t really say why to be honest, but I think it’s because there’s just more to do than in my car. Everything has to be operated rather than relying on automated systems. It’s just fun I suppose. It’s way slower than mine on paper, but it feels nippy enough. I guess I’d still prefer the big car for long haul use, but for dashing about locally it’s actually a close run thing. Motoring discussion Alby Back Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198049 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198049&v=t&m=1486248 hjforum1486247 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 13:02:42 +0000 A week or so into it, how is the Vitara stacking up for you Adam? All good, thanks.  I'm used to the noise now and don't really notice it.  Spare wheel is now in, so progress there.  I don't know if I'm getting used to the gearbox or it's getting used to me, but the kickdowns seem to be reducing.  The engine is pretty feeble - I can see why people prefer the Boosterjet, but the nice linear power delivery is a bit more relaxing than being constantly thrown about.  Still finding the seats a bit narrow! Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198049 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198049&v=t&m=1486247 hjforum1486246 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 11:51:31 +0000   Yes, it was only imported last year, but not everyone wants to work with an unknown import. But thanks for advice, will ask around local garages. There must be a forum for rare Honda models like yours, such forums are a mine of information such as part numbers and/or parts from other (UK) models that fit others, finding friction materials (pads) isn't usually any trouble. Your calipers could probably be refurbed back to as new condition by Big Red, but the turn around will be a week or so, maybe this could be done whilst you take a holiday? Alternatively keep an eye out on any forums you find, after i renewed the front calipers on my Landcruiser (new was more cost effective for my vehicle than refurb as well as time constraints) i offered them to anyone who needed them on the LC forum, a chap contacted me and had them so he could get them refurbed at Big Red and then do the swap at a later date at his convenience, no money changed hands, he paid the postage. Technical matters gordonbennet Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165439 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165439&v=t&m=1486246 hjforum1486245 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 11:37:37 +0000 Subarus are great till it comes to spark plug changes, makes life slightly easier if you undo the engine mounts and jack the engine up.   Sadly because they are a pita they often get neglected and left in too long there is always a danger of snapping a plug off in situ (luckily given your sort of budget that shouldn't be an issue even if they've not been renewed before), other than that indeed they are easy to work on, my recent swapping out of rear shocks and springs on the Forester was easy enough considering the car is 16 years old, nothing snapped or seized in place. Hope the Vit works well for you. Motoring discussion gordonbennet Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198049 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198049&v=t&m=1486245 hjforum1486244 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 11:08:58 +0000 Maybe look at a 5 or 6 year old Prius. A properly serviced one will be good for another 5 or 6 years, very reliable, very economical and easy 2 pedal driving. Does well over 60mpg round town or on slow country roads. Motoring discussion Rotin Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198079 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198079&v=t&m=1486244 hjforum1486243 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 10:56:53 +0000 No , it’s not a weather tight seal . Once the wiper arms and the securing clips are removed, it should just pull away from the gutter at the base of the screen . Remove it slowly and carefully. Thank you. Technical matters Des Jennings Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098&v=t&m=1486243 hjforum1486242 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 10:17:47 +0000 A week or so into it, how is the Vitara stacking up for you Adam? Motoring discussion Alby Back Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198049 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198049&v=t&m=1486242 hjforum1486241 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 10:12:10 +0000 No , it’s not a weather tight seal . Once the wiper arms and the securing clips are removed, it should just pull away from the gutter at the base of the screen . Remove it slowly and carefully. Technical matters elekie&a/c doctor Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098&v=t&m=1486241 hjforum1486240 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 10:03:21 +0000 Wiper arms will need to be removed for access. Thanks. One last question. Is the scuttle below the windscreen sealed in any way? Thanks. Technical matters Des Jennings Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098&v=t&m=1486240 hjforum1486239 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 09:57:33 +0000 Add the Astra to the pile next to a freind's 1.4T Mokka which also has a dead engine. It suffered problems before it went bang including the AA misdiagnosing a failed water pump.  Suspicion is head gasket failure leading to terminal failure. Motoring discussion daveyjp Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486239 hjforum1486238 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 09:37:08 +0000 Maybe I have to go up a bit for my budget to say £16k You definitely should be able to get into a Toyota Corolla for that, any particular reason why you have not looked at one?  And any particular reason why you haven't mentioned considering or trying Stellantis cars with their ubiquitous powertrain consisting of the 1.2 puretech plus Aisin auto?   I've mentioned our Peugeot 2008 in just two posts above, now difficult to find amongst the lengthy numerous contributions from others. As long as you avoid pre-2019 examples they are likely to be reliable. This excellent powertrain is found in many other Stellantis models, e.g. Citroens and Vauxhall Crosslands.   Here's a typical example... https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202404168699085?sort=relevance&twcs=true&advertising-location=at_cars&fuel-type=Petrol&make=Vauxhall&model=Crossland&postcode=NN9%205GL&transmission=Automatic&year-from=2021&year-to=2021&fromsra Motoring discussion John F Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197392 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197392&v=t&m=1486238 hjforum1486233 Sat, 27 Apr 2024 04:19:25 +0000 If you cannot get the bits, I'd doubt that it is impossible to re-use your existing ones, IF you can find someone willing to try it. This isnt generally done, but thats mostly because the high cost of labour means it isn't cost effective, rather than because its impossible. When I was rebuilding my calipers years ago, everyone on the Internyet, and his Internyet dog,  told me I was wasting my time, but they were (eventually) fine. The slider pin bushings were VERY stuck, Using a hydraulic jack as a press (which a garage would have) they would support the front of the car, but they would not support the weight of a shipping container, plus unknown contents, and with one BIG BANG they were free. Cleaned up nicely with aluminium foil as an abrasive, and with silicone grease, and a PTFE thread tape wrap they were still fine years later when the cops got the car   Technical matters edlithgow Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165439 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165439&v=t&m=1486233 hjforum1486231 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 23:56:14 +0000 but all else being equal a turbocharged engine will use more oil than a naturally aspirated engine, Why does a well running/ maintained turbocharged engine use more oil?  My 120k miles 2014 Skoda turbo 1.4tsi uses negligible between 9.5k services., likewise with my previous Skoda turbo 2003 1.9pd. I had a problem with oil consumption with my old 2001 Skoda Octavia 1.416v (N/A) which was a blockage in the oil breather system  - cheaply sorted,   I've had a mixture of turbo & N/A engines over the years and have not really noticed a difference in oil consumption. The best was a Saab 9000cs Light Pressure Turbo  that did a huge mileage without any mechanical issues - horrible for long term rust though but I don't think a turbo affects that. Amazing seats! For me worst engine for oil consumption was a 1300 pre crossflow Ford Cortina mkII.     Motoring discussion Big John Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486231 hjforum1486230 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 23:11:18 +0000 There are many variables obviously, but all else being equal a turbocharged engine will use more oil than a naturally aspirated engine, so maybe the KA stands a better chance - if I am correct in my assumption that it isn’t turbocharged. Motoring discussion Metropolis. Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486230 hjforum1486229 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 22:47:17 +0000 Why did the Astra fail? Lack of checking fluid levels? If so, the Ka could suffer similarly. Motoring discussion bathtub tom Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486229 hjforum1486227 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 19:02:35 +0000 Think I’d be getting the actual oil pressure tested with a gauge , and move on from there . Technical matters elekie&a/c doctor Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198101 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198101&v=t&m=1486227 hjforum1486226 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 18:43:35 +0000 That’ll be the Ka + . Built in India. Also known as the Ford Figo Motoring discussion elekie&a/c doctor Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486226 hjforum1486224 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 18:40:32 +0000 Probably sell the Astra, but I wouldn't want to do 80 miles a day in a Ka.  If he's happy with the La, sell the Astra.  If not, it's slightly harder.  In may case, I agree that buying a second hand engine is not going to be the way to go. Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486224 hjforum1486223 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 18:35:23 +0000 Sell-What are We Buy Any Car offering-polish it up , vac it out…see what they offer? Motoring discussion FoxyJukebox Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486223 hjforum1486222 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 18:31:51 +0000 Later model Ka will be the re-badged Fiat 500 . Perfectly fine, 1.2 Fire engine. The final 5dr Ka wasn’t based on the 500. Though at this money it would be a bit of a bargain if it was one. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486222 hjforum1486221 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 18:10:59 +0000 Later model Ka will be the re-badged Fiat 500 . Perfectly fine, 1.2 Fire engine. Motoring discussion elekie&a/c doctor Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486221 hjforum1486220 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 17:58:54 +0000 The second hand engine trade are notoriously shady. I’d take the Ka and bin the Astra too. The Ka uses the final version of the old Yamaha designed Zetec SE motor which has a very good rep for reliability so it’ll make a very decent little commuter. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486220 hjforum1486219 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 17:44:33 +0000 These Astra J models don’t have a good reliability record for their engines. I’d wave it goodbye, and take the Ka Motoring discussion elekie&a/c doctor Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486219 hjforum1486217 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 17:15:49 +0000 Thanks headfirst I'll give the Toyota a look , what about an electric car , I'm quite appealing with the low moving parts I hope this translates into less potential problems and if course the cheap MPG    Obv the down side is the potential mileage distance etc  Unless you get an early 1.2T (& which was not fitted with an auto box) the current generation of Corolla in the UK are hybrids, so you will be partway there .... Indeed, no doubt that is partly why they are regarded as so reliable & subsequently beloved by hire car drivers :)   Motoring discussion Heidfirst Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197392 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197392&v=t&m=1486217 hjforum1486216 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 16:50:05 +0000 Son's Astra (90,000 miles) went into the garage after loss of power, suspecting head gasket. Investigation shows camshaft deeply grooved, suspect other key parts also FUBAR and a fresh engine is required. (Ebay has one for about £1280). He is currently using a (genuine) 40,000 mile Ford Ka which his brother was planning to sell, valued at £ 2500 - 3000,                 if I were him I'd buy the Ka and sell the non-running Astra.  ( He commutes 40 miles each way so the Ka would have lower running costs).      I would appreciate opinions as to which option is likely to be best.                                                                         Motoring discussion galileo Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198102&v=t&m=1486216 hjforum1486215 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 16:36:30 +0000 hello all The wifes 2014  kia soul 1.6 petrol has just shown a yellow oil light ,upon checking the level level was on low so it has been topped up but still the light remains indicating ( according to a quick search ) oil pump or sensor issues . However I did come across the possibility that once topped up go for a 3 mile ish drive to try to build up oil pressure , is this a valid option or will it cause more problems . thanks for any help tom Technical matters tbg Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198101 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198101&v=t&m=1486215 hjforum1486214 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 16:28:52 +0000 Visible surface droplets when flushing the syringe and reservoir with water tend to support the silicone hypothesis. Id guess any damage is already done, though, and it wont be made any worse by flushing with DOT3   Technical matters edlithgow Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198050 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198050&v=t&m=1486214 hjforum1486212 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 12:23:43 +0000 That's great news Chris ... hopefully indicates a change of heart by Honda UK (incidentally what email address did you find for the MD?) Motoring discussion Theophilus Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197644 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197644&v=t&m=1486212 hjforum1486211 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:31:51 +0000 Wiper arms will need to be removed for access. Thanks. Technical matters Des Jennings Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098&v=t&m=1486211 hjforum1486210 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:11:50 +0000 Milk-float update. I’m now using the Leaf daily after SWMBO commandeered my C class. This isn’t a bad thing though, my commute is now costing a fraction of what it was and the car itself is smooth, comfortable and quick. As a second car I maintain that a good Mk II 40kw Leaf at under £12/£13k is possibly the best option out there. There's less to go wrong, it costs buttons to charge overnight and it drives very well. Supply is outstripping demand on these so they are great value. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=182472 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=182472&v=t&m=1486210 hjforum1486209 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:08:36 +0000 Absolutely no reason to change at all then - unless you are embarrassed by the date on the numberplate .... Beyond 4yrs old, no-one except petrolheads and mathematicians know what year a car is from the plethora of 0 and 1 or  5 and 6 followed by any number from 1-9 without resorting to a reference table.    https://www.nationalnumbers.co.uk/dvla-guide/year-of-issue-149.htm But 'personal plates' are a great idea  (£2 billion for HMG!) and provide much amusement. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/30-years-on-6-million-personalised-registrations-sold#:~:text=The%20personalised%20registrations%20website%20allows,suit%20all%20tastes%20and%20budgets.     Motoring discussion John F Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=126323 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=126323&v=t&m=1486209 hjforum1486208 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:00:53 +0000 Oh well, so far so good! But thanks! ;-) Motoring discussion Alby Back Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=126323 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=126323&v=t&m=1486208 hjforum1486207 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:47:19 +0000 Doesn’t use any oil between services John.  AB, you should know that is scientifically impossible!  No need to add oil for 10k miles is indeed a good sign of engine health (or cack-handed overfilling at service time) but beware fuel dilution, especially in old diesels (is it a diesel?).  If fuel dilution matches oil consumption, bearing and cylinder lubrication will soon be compromised after a few thousand miles. Motoring discussion John F Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=126323 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=126323&v=t&m=1486207 hjforum1486206 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:29:17 +0000 You didn’t go with run flats , but did it have them fitted ? Motoring discussion elekie&a/c doctor Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198093 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198093&v=t&m=1486206 hjforum1486205 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:25:32 +0000   The car has done 30,000 miles and 3 of the tyres were original tyres and cracked around the rims.   One of which was punctured. Decided to replace all 4, my choice Chose Continental All Season Contact 2 225 40 r18 tyres from Blackcircles @ £109 each, fitted cost incl disposal NB I didnt go with run flats   Many thanks for all the replies Motoring discussion Colin Bicknell Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198093 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198093&v=t&m=1486205 hjforum1486204 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 10:04:59 +0000 That is not something that gives me the slightest concern. Motoring discussion Alby Back Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=126323 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=126323&v=t&m=1486204 hjforum1486203 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:46:58 +0000 Wiper arms will need to be removed for access. Technical matters elekie&a/c doctor Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098&v=t&m=1486203 hjforum1486202 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:35:57 +0000 Tracing water ingress on cars is a very time consuming process. I would think the dealer would remove all the load area trims and rear seats and carpet for inspection. However, I’d start by checking the drains on the scuttle by the windscreen wipers before anything else. Thanks for your suggestions. Does the plastic area below the windscreen have to be removed? There has been a leaf build up to the left and right of the scuttle but that is with the scuttle in place. Technical matters Des Jennings Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098&v=t&m=1486202 hjforum1486201 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 09:34:01 +0000 Thanks for your suggestions. Does the plastic area below the windscreen have to be removed? There has been a leaf build up to the left and right of the scuttle but that is with the scuttle in place. Technical matters Des Jennings Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198098&v=t&m=1486201 hjforum1486200 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:40:37 +0000 Run Flats are the work of the Devil. Most forum posts are about replacing them with standard tyres. They totally destroy the ride of a car, crashy and hard. I would investigate a little before you make an expensive mistake!? I think that ship may have sailed! Ignoring the likelihood of this car proving reliable, I'd be more than a little miffed if I discovered that a car I'd just bought needed four new tyres (unless it was very cheap). More so given the size of the tyres involved, because they aint going to be cheap (assuming you want decent quality) even if the OP did decide to replace with standard rather than run flat tyres!.   Motoring discussion badbusdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198093 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198093&v=t&m=1486200 hjforum1486199 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:33:48 +0000 Thanks headfirst I'll give the Toyota a look , what about an electric car , I'm quite appealing with the low moving parts I hope this translates into less potential problems and if course the cheap MPG    Obv the down side is the potential mileage distance etc  I'm not against the idea of an electric car myself but there are one or two caveats, most obviously the ability to charge at home.  Assuming that is a yes, then you need to consider the miles you do and/or how much you trust the charging infrastructure. mcb 100 seems to have no issues, but SLO's experience hasn't been very positive, though that may be (at least in part) Scotland vs England? Re the MG, I've had cause recently to worry about their quality, long term reliability and parts prices. Not necessarily relevant to the electric drivetrain, but would have me reluctant all the same. Surprisingly, they are also not the cheapest option unless you are comparing battery range like for like (in which case the 61kWh MG5 is best value). But right now on Autotrader there is a 2024 Nissan Leaf with the smaller 39kWh battery for £13995. If you can manage with that battery, that seems almost suspiciously cheap!. But also plenty of Stellantis cars (Citroen, Peugeot, Vauxhall etc) with the 50kWh battery, £16k is enough to get you into a 2023 Peugeot e208 or e2008, a Corse-e or Mokka-e.    Motoring discussion badbusdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197392 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197392&v=t&m=1486199 hjforum1486198 Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:28:58 +0000 Run Flats are the work of the Devil. Most forum posts are about replacing them with standard tyres. They totally destroy the ride of a car, crashy and hard. I would investigate a little before you make an expensive mistake!? Motoring discussion mickyh7 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198093 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198093&v=t&m=1486198