Ask Honest John

Most recently answered dual mass flywheel questions
My wife would still like a manual, and we've finally come round to the idea of a 5 series (Alfas before), and have found a 2010 525d with a manual gearbox. But the Internet is rife with stories about the...
I own a 2007 5 Series BMW diesel automatic. The car has a full service history, but is high mileage at 85,000. The DPF light came on and the message said that the car was safe to continue driving, however...
I am considering buying a nearly new Ford Focus 1.6 TDCI. From all reports this would appear to be a very good car, but I am 70 years old and would prefer trouble-free motoring, and I am concerned about...
I currently drive a 2006 Focus ST which I've owned for four years, and apart from a replacement alternator and door strap the only cost has been routine servicing. The car has now covered 53,000 miles....
My car is a petrol Skoda Octavia vRS, which I purchased new in May last year and I would say is one of the best cars I have owned. However my increased mileage of 25,000 per year is hurting my wallet and...
I am driving a 2004 Ford C-Max 1.6 diesel which is giving excellent service and fuel economy. I will keep it for a year or two longer, but I wonder about its replacement. If buying secondhand cars, it...
I have a 2005 Vauxhall Vivaro with 80,000 miles on the clock. When I press the clutch pedal down I get a chattering noise coming from the engine. Does any body know what this could be?
I have seen mentioned problems with dual mass flywheels and DPF filters. Are there any diesels that do not use DPF filters or have dual mass flywheel issues? I believe Honda has just started fitting DPF...
We have a 2005 Peugeot 307 Diesel. The car was brought recently with a 3 month warranty. Within 4 weeks and less than 1000 miles the DMF has failed. The selling garage are trying to argue it is a wear...
I have a 2005 Mondeo 2.0 diesel with 180,000 on the clock. It has been a great car and the only expense apart from brake pads and discs was a new alternator. I want to keep the car for another two years...