BMW 3-Series: engine Noise and Coolant Loss - can you help?

A couple of months ago I bought a 15,000 2008 BMW 330i SE Auto (E90) from my local main dealer. Upon collection, I noticed a number of noises from the engine area which were cause for concern. In addition,...

Ford C-MAX - Temperature gauge not behaving correctly

I have just purchased a 2009, Ford C-MAX 2.0-litre auto petrol. We have had the car for less than a week, and have noticed that the temperature gauge rises to 90 degrees within 1-2 minutes of starting...

BMW X5 - Would replacing run-flat tyres with normal tyres improve the ride?

Would replacing the run-flat tyres on my BMW X5 with normal tyres improve the ride quality? I recently bought a 2010 BMW X5 3.0D with 18in wheels and run-flat tyres. The test drive on dual-carriageway...

Suzuki SX4: Terrible engine noise after starting

I started my new Suzuki SX4 2.0DDiS SZ5 the other morning, and the engine made a terribly rough noise. Turned it off and started it again, and all was fine. What could it have been? Sounded like it wasn't...

Lexus IS300 Sportcross - Tyre and wheel sizes

I plan to replace the wheels and tyres on my 2002 Lexus IS300 Sportcross, because the rims are corroded and the 45-profile tyres give a slightly harsh ride. The existing standard wheels are are 17in...

Ford Mondeo - rear tyres and suspension

My 2003 Ford Mondeo 2.0 swings its rear-end when hitting bumps. When I buy a new set of tyres, the rears wear out on the outer sides more than the fronts. What could be the problem?

Turbodiesel engines: Effects of stop-start on a hot engine

Is the stop-start system on my new Skoda Yeti 1.6TD Greenline going to have an adverse effect on the engine, given that it will switch off the engine even when very hot?

Ford Grand C-MAX - What size winter tyres?

I've just bought a three-month old Ford Grand C-MAX. All the Ford Brochures state that the tyre size is 205/55/R16, but this one has 215/55/R16s fitted. according to the handbook I have, either size can...

BMW 116i - What are the benefits of alloy wheels?

I recently started driving a 2004 BMW 116i, and I really enjoy driving it. It's fitted with steel 16in wheels. What benefits (other than cosmetic) would swapping over to alloy wheels give? The reason...

Chain or belt on a BMW Z4?

My son-in-law's Z4 has just had to be recovered with a belt failure circa 55k miles and just short of the service when the belt is apparently due to be changed. The BMW garage (independant) advises this...