http://www.honestjohn.co.uk Honest John forum en-gb Tue, 30 Apr 2024 02:50:02 +0000 Copyright: (C) www.honestjohn.co.uk 5 hjforum1486341 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 01:44:54 +0000       "Sounds like a good case for another fuel filter  downstream  of the fuel pump, or am I missing something?" The pressure? - 1000 to 2200 bar? As a pressure differential across a filter that'd be a bit of a design challenge, but I'd guess the pressure differential is at the injectors, where it goes to whatever it is in the cylinders.I dunno what the pressure differential across the hypothetical filter would be, or how expensive it would be to make one, but designing a filter housing to simply resist that pressure would not be such a problem. Or I'm missing something. Of course this assumes the manufacturer might care about auto-destructing fuel systems, and the punter would pay for non auto-destructing fuel systems, both admittedly questionable assumptions. Technical matters edlithgow Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165400 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165400&v=t&m=1486341 hjforum1486340 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 01:25:08 +0000 You seem to be having difficulty reading the dipstick. A wipe-off with a suitable clean tissue, such as a hard-ish grade of toilet paper or hand-towel that wont shed lint, should remove any splash from engine operation. If there are congealed rings of oil or dirt that are making it difficult to read, cleaning with a suitable solvent (petrol, kerosene, , acetone, white spirit, meths,vodka many etcs) should help.Just wet a tissue, wipe dipstick and then wipe dry with another one. This should not be required routinely Having cleaned off your dipstick, carefully re-insert it, avoiding contact on the way in as much as possible,(perhaps guide tip with your other hand close to the target, retaining the tissue for the purpose) wait for a few seconds, remove and read Lighting will influence ease of reading, so adjust appropriately, perhaps keeping some kind of lamp or torch in the car for the purpose. I've never used anything as watery as 0W-30 and wouldn't want to, but I imagine it might be a bit harder to read than a higher base viscosity grade of oil. There are reports of negative outcomes (gelling) from mixing oils. These wrecked engines, but they happened in extreme low temperatures in the US, and this phenomena is unlikely to affect you, though in general  its probably better to avoid mixing oils. Technical matters edlithgow Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108&v=t&m=1486340 hjforum1486339 Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:44:42 +0000 “ Do you guys think electric cars will be more reliable mechanically than combustion engines in the future” With fewer moving parts and no emissions control concerns EV’s should on paper be much more reliable. Battery degradation is less of a concern with later models, I’ve seen 40kw Leaf’s with well over 100,000 miles and still running on 85% battery capacity or more. Autoalex on YouTube recently bought a 450,000 mile ex taxi Tesla that he’s been testing out over the last few weeks with much enthusiasm. Our Leaf is on 42,000 miles and has so far not put a foot wrong. If you can charge at home and you can afford a late model Leaf that has low miles (high mileage EV’s are likely to have seen regular fast charging which can damage the battery pack) at under £15,000 then they make a lot of sense. We use ours for commuting (40 mile round trip) to work and for the bulk of our local running about. It’s capable of going further but after previous issues with the reliability and cost of public chargers we now restrict ourselves largely to journeys it can manage without a charge - 60 mile radius, which to be fair covers 95% of our needs. We have another car for longer runs. There’s a great deal of pleasure to be had from not having to buy fuel. My commute takes about 30% charge daily on winter and I plug it in it every second night taking about 25kwh to recharge at 7.5p p/kwh so my fuel costs are a fraction of what they were. I recommend trying one out, they’re very relaxing and startlingly quick to drive. The Leaf is very practical too. Quality isn’t up to Toyota or Mazda standards however. The downside other than longer journeys being a bit of a pain is the higher depreciation. The trade are unsure of EV values and absolutely hammer them used so you need to buy it right and plan for keeping it long term. If you don’t do at least a 10k p/a mileage then it’s likely depreciation will more than wipe out your fuel saving over say a used Toyota Corolla or Mazda 3. Motoring discussion SLO76 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=1486339 hjforum1486338 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 23:34:28 +0000 Great replies and thanks again, just to confirm I have off street parking in front of my house and can charge my car overnight from mains .   Wow this car looks awesome 1.2L and 46 MPG    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   Will take a further look    Do you guys think electric cars will be more reliable mechanically than combustion engines in the future      Motoring discussion Honda jazzer 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=1486338 hjforum1486337 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 23:31:00 +0000 There is a big difference between the very early Japanese built Leafs and the UK ones which came from 2013. The early ones are only worth it if very, very cheap as decent examples of the UK ones are not far off in price now. The early ones had an electric handbrake, after 2013 it is a manual foot one. The fault with the AC charger only appears common in the pre-2013. These have the AC charger behind the back seats, on the later ones it is under the bonnet. Similarly post 2013 have a heat pump and if they do have a PTC they don't seem to fail. Used, working, post 2013 PTC heaters seem to be about £100 on ebay which indicates demand is low. The battery also changed in 2013 to one which doesn't degrade anywhere near as much.  In short, yes, the very early ones do have some common issues and are a bit "proof of concept". However from 2013 on they seem quite cockroach like in their old school Nissan ability to take a lot of abuse (which many do). Yes much of the switchgear appears to come from a 1985 Bluebird but they go on working.  Note the Mk 2 version from 2018 actually carries over most of the Mk 1 on a different body. Floorpan, seats, much of the switchgear (such as the climate panel), etc  are all identical. The battery is bigger but identical format and in fact if you unplugged a 62Kwh battery out of a 2024 car and plugged it into a 2014 one off it would go quite happy. It will fit and work.   Motoring discussion pd 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=1486337 hjforum1486336 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 22:30:55 +0000 You can put as much Redex in it as you want, it won’t unblock an EGR valve. Technical matters Halmerend Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=181539 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=181539&v=t&m=1486336 hjforum1486335 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 22:19:00 +0000 The EGR valve was caked up on my Audi A6 diesel after 3 years and 21,000 miles. Cost me £350 at the dealership as it was a month out of warranty. It was just the wrong car for me and I’m back in a petrol car now. Technical matters Halmerend Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=181539 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=181539&v=t&m=1486335 hjforum1486334 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 21:54:04 +0000 Its not been a problem recently. It regens between 160 and 190 miles depending on the usage its had ie local or long journeys.  I think i've covered about 4k miles since my original post. I always use decent fuel and half a bottle of redex every tank.   Technical matters ronald bennett Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=181539 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=181539&v=t&m=1486334 hjforum1486333 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 20:49:33 +0000 I seem to have no option other than to sit and wait, and hope that the car will be delivered as promised in end of May, or cancel the order and try my luck elsewhere. Had the deal not been a pretty good one in lease terms, I would have cancelled this order a long time ago.  You're getting mucked about here. I wouldn't be at all surprised if they miss the new delivery date too. Do you really think their repair will be satisfactory? Personally, I would cancel the order, while you still can. Motoring discussion FiestaOwner Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198025 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198025&v=t&m=1486333 hjforum1486332 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 20:18:14 +0000 Hmm, while I have read about a fair few problems with the Mk I’s particularly the 30kw models, most owners rate them highly for reliability according to forums. The early Mk I’s and the 30kw’s do suffer battery degradation at a higher rate than the rest and are best avoided. The Mk II’s are however much more durable with plenty of cars with six figures up still showing 12 bars of battery capacity - meaning more than 85% if I’m correct. The local dealer service manager told me he’s only ever seen one in for a warranty claim on the battery pack. I see several being used as taxis locally and haven’t heard any horror stories beyond a few issues with the front camera, which is badly positioned to soak up all the road muck. In reality the Leaf is a simple thing with few moving parts and little to go wrong, the later cars suffer far lower battery degradation but yes the manufacturers are killing the whole move to electric by being obscenely greedy regarding parts prices. The Renault Zoe has flagged up in headlines a couple of times lately with insane repair costs relating to the internal charger. Renault wanted £6,500 from one owner of a low mileage car to replace what is a relatively simple piece of equipment. Its nonsense like this that’s killing resale values as the trade price in the risks involved in stocking used EV’s or they avoid them altogether. If manufacturers are serious about the switch to electric then they need to dramatically drop parts prices or the trade and the public will continue to reject them out of justified fear. In time the trade will adapt to repair them at realistic cost, but this industry is just in its infancy thanks to the long warranties given on new ev power packs, a few firms offer battery pack refurbishment at a fraction of the cost of a new battery from the manufacturer but it’ll take time to become widespread. The handbrake isn’t electric, it’s a manual pedal operated parking brake which doesn’t concern me at all. I also ran a Toyota Avensis with the dreaded electric parking brake for six years without any issues whatsoever and I like in a coastal Scottish town that likes to eat cars. As for your comment stating that 50% of UK energy comes from fossil fuels, well that’s simply wrong, it’s around half this figure and dropping rapidly. There’s no argument, EV’s are better for the environment. https://grid.iamkate.com/ As for saying you’re not anti EV, well that’s clearly wrong and much of that is based on incorrect information. Our EV has proven to be utterly reliable to date, it’s very pleasant to drive and it costs buttons to fuel at 7.5p p/kwh overnight. No tax payer subsidy has been received by me, though should any tax payers feel generous I’ll happily take donations. 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=1486332 hjforum1486331 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 20:12:48 +0000 A pretty unsatisfactory ongoing situation.  The broker has provided a number of updates, essentially just forwarding emails that the dealers is sending, providing various updates on timescales for the repair. Latest email is now saying a repair is scheduled for w/c 20th May, having previously said it was going to fixed and ready for delivery last week.  I've been provided with a screenshot referencing a recall, but having spoken with 4 different people now at the broker, it turns out that the issue is with the battery (it is mild hybrid).  The broker's sale team are not providing any alternative solution and directing to the website for their latest stock / offers.  The leasing company are not involved until the delivery made, and at this point they take ownership of the car, so they don't have any details and not much interest in the delays.  I seem to have no option other than to sit and wait, and hope that the car will be delivered as promised in end of May, or cancel the order and try my luck elsewhere. Had the deal not been a pretty good one in lease terms, I would have cancelled this order a long time ago.  Motoring discussion TheActionVerb Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198025 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198025&v=t&m=1486331 hjforum1486330 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 20:11:40 +0000   "Sounds like a good case for another fuel filter  downstream  of the fuel pump, or am I missing something?" The pressure? - 1000 to 2200 bar? Technical matters focussed Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165400 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165400&v=t&m=1486330 hjforum1486329 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 20:02:46 +0000 SLK in that price range will be a money pit. MX5 (NC - Gen III or ND - GenIV) use the same Aisin 6AT autobox, is branded by Mazda as powershift or Skyaktiv. Its actually basically the same box as used on Lexus IS - strong and good for 300HP. Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ is a tough car. Don't rust much. Again an Aisin A series auto. Sparkplugs are easy for anyone with a bit of Subaru experience. Every 6 years/60k miles. Special Densos at about £60 for set of 4.  I can change the set in 45 mins. A dealer will rob you blind. Motoring discussion Rerepo Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486329 hjforum1486328 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 19:40:57 +0000 I wouldn't buy a Leaf. Too many problems. Battery performance drops alarmingly as they age.  Couple of examples I've seen with less than 60k on the clock and down to 40 mile range!! On Board Chargers not the most reliable. Refusal to charge on one was O/C failure of a SMD diode in the charger Pilot line (on the OBC board). Nissan wanted £3.5k to fit a new OBC - we fixed it for pennies with a new diode (although a fair bit of labour to get at it).  On another a uP on the OBC board had failed. Couldn't repair that one but managed to find a used OBC for around £1k.  Currently looking at a 2016 with faulty PTC heater element. Seems they use a combination of a PTC element and a heat pump - PTC kicks in during cold weather. Nissan want crazy money for the part (thousands) - driver is wearing thick coat and gloves. Handbrake is also a lousy design - motor in a box that pulls on cables - similar to T27 Avensis. They play up and part is £1k+. We just got one through MoT by opening the box and lubing with GT85. None of these cars mentioned have done more than 60k. Heaters seem a weak spot on EVs - hear of lots failing after a few years...  extremely expensive. I live in an upmarket village. Lots of newish, very big and fast EVs around here. Each morning the local school looks like a Panzer division has pulled up outside. All subsidised by the taxpayer through company car tax breaks. All crazy expensive to insure and repair. Who will want/afford to run them in 5-10 years?  Given that 50% of UK electricity still comes from fossil fuels exactly how much CO2 is being saved? (what is the efficiency of these things?)  How come electricity suppliers can sell overnight electricity at 9p/kWh to EV owners but night rate Economy 7 (which people use to heat their homes via storage radiators) is 18p/kWh ?  Not against EVs - they will be part of the mix, but taxpayer subsidies have created a dysfunctional market.  Motoring discussion Rerepo 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=1486328 hjforum1486327 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 19:08:37 +0000 ok to mix. But buy a new dipstick. Technical matters Rerepo Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108&v=t&m=1486327 hjforum1486326 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 19:07:13 +0000 Common problem on Focus. Vents behind the rear bumper let water in and it makes its way through body box sections to rear and front footwells.  Remove rear bumper and reseal vents with body sealant. Technical matters Rerepo 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=1486326 hjforum1486325 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 18:09:46 +0000 There were oil marks on the dipstick above the 'min' level, but none of the marks were very clear. Will try leaving the dipstick in for longer to see if that helps. It's always best to read the dipstick in a cold/cool engine, on a level surface - straight after switching off will never give a true reading, and the oil is less visible too ! Technical matters Andrew-T Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108&v=t&m=1486325 hjforum1486324 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 16:36:32 +0000 What is age of car and engine size ? Technical matters elekie&a/c doctor Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108&v=t&m=1486324 hjforum1486323 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 15:53:06 +0000 Hi Thanks for your replies, I'll stick some 0w30 in. Car is petrol. Havent seen any evidence of leaks but I'll have another check [as well as using the dipstick again] before I put any more oil in. There were oil marks on the dipstick above the 'min' level, but none of the marks were very clear. Will try leaving the dipstick in for longer to see if that helps. I'm a couple of months away from the MOT/ full service so just want to keep it going until then if possible, before letting someone have a proper look at it. Thanks   Technical matters RobH_2024 Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108&v=t&m=1486323 hjforum1486322 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 15:31:30 +0000 Presuming your car is petrol, not diesel, or the dipstick would show black oil ?  If the car has a handbook, that will offer two or three alternative grades of oil.  Unless it is an unusual type for certain engines, it should be safe to mix grades of semi-synthetic within the range listed in the handbook. Your low-level indication could be because the oil actually is low, or the level sensor is misreporting.  The dipstick is a more reliable indicator, so if you have any doubts about that, get a replacement - they aren't expensive (E-bay).  Are there any oil drips under the car ? Technical matters Andrew-T Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108&v=t&m=1486322 hjforum1486320 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 15:20:02 +0000 5/30 is perfectly fine for this age of vehicle. You may find the dipstick doesn’t read correctly because the plastic graduation marker at the bottom of the stick has broken off . So you’ll get a false reading. Technical matters elekie&a/c doctor Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108&v=t&m=1486320 hjforum1486319 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:25:11 +0000 Can't see any harm in mixing although I'd be tempted to do a oil and filter change, cheap easy job and at least you'll know what's actually in it. Technical matters paul 1963 Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108&v=t&m=1486319 hjforum1486318 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 14:01:42 +0000 Bought a old Peugot 207 a few months ago. It's showing the low oil light when I start it. Had a check using the dipstick and the level looks OK, but the dipstick isn't 'holding' very much oil when I pull it out, so might not be accurate. Simple solution is to ust top up the oil to be safe. Problem is I don't know what oil the previous owner used. No indications of the correct oil to use in the car manual or on the service record!!! A check online suggests all 207's from that era use OW-30, and some can use 5W-30 as well. Safest bet is therefore to use 0W-30. But what if the existing oil is 5W-30, will mixing the two oils cause any damage? Want to try and avoid having to do a full oil change in a garage (also not too keen on driving it to the garage if the oil is very low). Any advice welcome!! Ta Rob Technical matters RobH_2024 Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198108&v=t&m=1486318 hjforum1486316 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 13:07:15 +0000 Thanks for everybody's suggestions.  I think the top contender has to be the SLK.   I am still going to put my MX5 through its MOT.  It would be nice to get another year's cheap motoring but I suspect that's highly unlikely but I think I now have an idea of what car to get next.   Get back to us when you have got things sorted out and let us know how you went and if you did get anything else.  There are a lot of people here who would be very interested to hear. Motoring discussion expat Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486316 hjforum1486315 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 12:07:23 +0000  3cyl are not known for smoothness. .....I have absolutely no interest in VAG products... I'm a fan of 3-pots.  I have four of them under the bonnet of my 'VAG product' and Mrs F has one under hers.   Smooth as a silky smooth thing ;-)   Motoring discussion John F Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197998 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197998&v=t&m=1486315 hjforum1486314 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 11:24:23 +0000 Hi mate I also have a 2.0 diesel Leon and currently expecting the same issues you had last year, my car has been in the garage for over a month and numerous mechanics can’t seem to find the problem, what was the resolution to your issue as im currently 1 month without a car. Would appreciate a response, cheers  Hi Have posted a reply lower down . Possible failure of fuel delivery control unit situated under the back seat near the fuel sender unit. This controls delivery of fuel  to the engine. This might help with your Problems. Technical matters nigelr Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165400 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165400&v=t&m=1486314 hjforum1486310 Mon, 29 Apr 2024 10:53:18 +0000 Hi, Don`t know if this might help . My Daughter as a Leon 2.0tdi this suddenly had the issues you described . Loss of power ,cutting out and difficult starting . She had the fuel delivery  sender unit  pump replaced  situated in the tank , but still had the issues but it turned out to be the Fuel control module situated next to the sender unit . All good after replacement. Technical matters nigelr Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165400 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=165400&v=t&m=1486310 hjforum1486307 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 22:46:24 +0000 Good to hear.  I meant to say before, having spent a while sat in a Suzuki showroom recently, they're not bad looking at all in the flesh.  Really quite Swift-like, but with more angular headlamps. Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197998 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197998&v=t&m=1486307 hjforum1486306 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 21:29:16 +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. SLO and elekie, with my opinion backed up by your advice, the lad has now bought the Ka from his brother and the Astra is to be disposed of for best price he can get.  Many thanks! 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=1486306 hjforum1486305 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 21:07:07 +0000 Just dropped off the Swift after 1500 miles in just over two weeks. And I have to say, I enjoyed having it. No, it’s never going to win the traffic lights Grand Prix but it’ll sit at motorway speeds in relative peace and quiet and keeps up nicely with traffic. Had it just been me driving it, it’d have been over 60mpg but enthusiastic other drivers managed to lower the average. The lack of a sixth gear never caused any consternation as it’s pretty long legged in fifth for something that small. No squeaks, no rattles, just solid Japanese build quality (but built in Hungary), I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a sensibly priced small hatch. And, unusually for me, I’d probably go for the lower Motion trim level. The small extra spec on the Ultra, for me, doesn’t warrant the extra money. Motoring discussion mcb100 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197998 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=197998&v=t&m=1486305 hjforum1486304 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 20:08:17 +0000 I’m finding Autotrader has become very annoying in putting up non search area results for most searches. Cinch is definitely appearing for virtually any search, but I seem to get random car dealers up to 180 miles away with cars in a up to 25 mile search radius.  I wish Autotrader would have a tick box for physical stock within 25 miles as a search option. I couldn’t bring myself to buy a £15k car unseen and undriven. the -cinch option does work, just wish I could do it for all non physical stock.      Motoring discussion japdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198084 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198084&v=t&m=1486304 hjforum1486303 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 19:34:47 +0000 Hi Ronald,did you find a resolution to your regen issue as literally my i40 is a word perfect copy of your issue, identical. The i40 shares the same engine as your car.  Would be interesting to compare parts changed etc if you haven't made any headway.    Neil Technical matters Theboxer Technical matters http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=181539 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=181539&v=t&m=1486303 hjforum1486301 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 16:54:48 +0000 Thanks for everybody's suggestions.  I think the top contender has to be the SLK.   I am still going to put my MX5 through its MOT.  It would be nice to get another year's cheap motoring but I suspect that's highly unlikely but I think I now have an idea of what car to get next.       Motoring discussion newguy2015 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486301 hjforum1486300 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:46:53 +0000 Agree. I like the simplicity of the MX5, even later cars aren’t overly complex. A Mk IV in base spec with the rev happy 1.5 motor very much appeals to me, but sadly doesn’t fit in with my life. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486300 hjforum1486299 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:37:58 +0000 I think the key is that it had absolutely no tech in it apart from say the electric windows.  I don’t think any of the cars we are discussing in this thread will be running when they are 24 years old Motoring discussion newguy2015 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486299 hjforum1486298 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:30:43 +0000 Don’t think that’s going to fix the problem. As already suggested, tpms valve is likely to have been damaged, either by the blow out or the tyre fitter . Technical matters elekie&a/c doctor 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=1486298 hjforum1486297 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:18:33 +0000 I’m impressed it’s still in one piece at 24yrs old. I had a 1999 Mk II which I sold many years ago (for a profit) after two summers of enjoyment due to severe rust underneath. The local chap who bought it kept it for years after me though so he either had a very friendly Mot tester or deep pockets. Mechanically it was brilliant. Cost me £1475 including hardtop, sold it for £1600 two years later… motoring doesn’t come cheaper. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486297 hjforum1486296 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:15:37 +0000 Being a Subaru flat 4 engine I believe changing the spark plugs in the GT86 is a pig of a job, rather expensive and thus neglected by most owners. I do get the appeal of these however. But many are abused and/or messed with so buyer beware. A good one would be a keeper though. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486296 hjforum1486295 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:13:01 +0000 When I first got my MX5, I got it rust proofed and I topped up that treatment for a few years after.  It was due for its next rust treatment during the pandemic and because of that it simply didn't happen and now it's really too late.     Motoring discussion newguy2015 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486295 hjforum1486294 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:10:08 +0000 I did do a search on Auto trader for Lexus SC430 but I am sure they will be reliable but came to the conclusion probably didn't work for the fun aspect.   Motoring discussion newguy2015 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486294 hjforum1486293 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:08:36 +0000 Thanks Slo76 That is a nice looking Merc. I think it ticks most of the boxes.  I've no problem buying from a private seller and that probably makes most sense.  When I bought the MX5, I previously bought from a specialist dealer that had a great reputation in the MX5 community.  I think it worked really well, the guy was excellent and I had no problems.  Also, due to his reputation, I was convinced if there had been any issues he would have got them sorted.       Motoring discussion newguy2015 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486293 hjforum1486292 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 13:07:09 +0000 Mystery solved (hopefully) - went out to check the tyres in daylight and realised he’s fit a 40 instead of a 45. Luckily the paperwork reflected the correct size so hoping to get replaced today. 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=1486292 hjforum1486291 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 12:39:03 +0000 Had a look around at Mk III MX5’s a few years back for myself but found rust was well into most of them. You do find the occasional summer use toy that’s in good condition but that’s a rare find. The auto despite the Powershift name is apparently an Aisin torque converter transmission with a good reputation, but there’s confusion online about this so I’d want to research it to be 100% certain that it wasn’t Fords rotten automated manual transmission. Mazda didn’t use it in any other car so I doubt they did here. A good one would be a brilliant little toy but I’d pay to have it fully undersealed if I bought one. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486291 hjforum1486290 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 12:16:57 +0000 BMW build good automatic boxes too, normally I’d advise avoiding the 4cyl cars as they’re more likely to suffer timing chain issues than the better made 6’s, but this private sale car does look nice in the advert. http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202312054568111 Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486290 hjforum1486289 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 12:04:57 +0000 Don’t think you could call it fun, but I quite like the Lexus IS250 Cabrio. Very well built, bulletproof engines and a bit different. http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202403197742124 Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486289 hjforum1486288 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 11:59:29 +0000 If it must be an auto then a Merc is a sensible choice, they do have a reputation for building robust gearboxes. On your budget and with your list of wants you’ll probably have to travel to find what you want. A longterm privately owned second car/toy is where you’ll find the best cars, most dealer warranties at this age/money are next to worthless anyway. http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202401285984449 Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486288 hjforum1486287 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 11:48:58 +0000 Thanks Barney  I'll be honest, I am not really a fan of how the TT looks and the DSG gearbox slightly worries me.  Hopefully Volkswagen/Audi have them sorted now.  I'll be buying second hand and I'll have no idea how well its been looked after, so probably needs to be a no, just on the gearbox, rally.   Motoring discussion newguy2015 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486287 hjforum1486286 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 11:46:58 +0000 Thanks elekie How reliable are SLK of this era?   Motoring discussion newguy2015 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486286 hjforum1486285 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 11:45:57 +0000 Thanks Adampr I wouldn't have a problem buying an import.  Although the insurance would likely be a bit higher.   I've spent a bit of time looking at the Mini Coupe.  Pretty cheap compared with other things that I've looked at, although I've come to your conclusion.  It's just a mini with a lower roof.   Unfortunately, the automatic requirement is an absolute must.   I think part of me is struggling with how much money Toyota GT86 are going for.   Yes, I am really looking for a coupe/convertible    Motoring discussion newguy2015 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486285 hjforum1486284 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 11:11:34 +0000 I had an SLK and it was good to drive even with the 220 D. I like the BMW 2 seater and the Audi TT, if a choice then the TT would be it for me. Motoring discussion barney100 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=198106&v=t&m=1486284