Under suspension

I retire next May after thirty years in the prison service, and I am buying myself a quality car. The two models that I have looked at are the BMW 5 sport, and the E Class Mercedes Sport. I have not had...

BMW 320d - Dual mass fly meals

In September 2009, I purchased a used BMW 320D M Sport Coupe (12 months old, ex-demonstrator plus one owner, 6,000 miles) from a main dealer. In the 12,000 miles since, it has had 3 replacement clutches,...

Manifold and machine in perfect harmony

I remember you warning prospective buyers of BMW530D models of swirl flap problems on this otherwise excellent car. A family member is at the moment looking to buy a late 2003 BMW 530D Auto, a peach of...

Filter tip - DPF regeneration

I've run a BMW E60 525SE petrol auto from new. It's 6 years old and I intend to change it for a new F10 5-Series. There are compelling paper reasons for choosing a 520 Diesel SE auto (enough power for...

Butch craft

What I want is a car that looks like a Honda CR-V - chunky with high seating - but is not 4x4. Is there such a thing? Also, I hear on the radio today that Carcraft is offering a £2,000 scrappage deal against...

Waits and measures

I would welcome your advice on which 4x4 to choose. I intend to purchase new and keep the car for 10 years during which time I estimate I will drive 150,000 miles. I want a diesel engine and automatic...

Asset chipping

I’m looking at a BMW 3 series convertible. List price with extras is £35k. What sort of discount should I aim to get?

Arch enemy

I parked my BMW in the car park in Shoreham By Sea last night. There were no lights in the car park. On my return I was clamped. I endeavoured to reverse, I got out to see I had been clamped. I went to...

The end of his teves

I read with interest the e-mail headed "Half Braked". I too have had DSC failures on two BMW E90 Series cars. One was registered May 2006, the other Jan 2007. Speaking to BMW mechanics at my local franchise...

Coupe climax

I'm looking at buying a new/nearly new car early next year. My budget is £20k-£25k and I fancy a coupe or a cabriolet. I want Something economical to run and maintain with a good resale value. What would...