Ask The Guide

The Commodore timing chain problem was associated with the Alloytec V6 when it was first released in the VZ and VE, a VFII should be trouble-free in that area. There are no other Aussie cars, such as the Falcon and Commodore, so you’re choices are limited if you really want one.

The tyre pressure will be shown on a sticker usually located in the driver’s door opening. The oil level is checked by a dipstick, which you will find on the motor. It will have a yellow handle. The coolant level can be checked by looking at the overflow bottle adjacent to the radiator. For the brake fluid level just remove the brake master cylinder cap.

I would suspect there’s a problem with the turbocharger, have a diesel mechanic check it for you.

It would only be speculation on my part of I was to try and diagnose the problem; it could be any number of things causing it. The best thing is to continue working with your Isuzu dealer until the cause of the problem is found, particularly as the car is still under warranty. If the dealer can’t find the fault get them to call in Isuzu head office technical staff that should be able to track it down.

We are not aware of any specific issues with the SRT’s big V8, but the Grand Cherokee doesn’t have a great reputation for reliability. It has been subject to a number of recalls for various problems, and we would urge you to have a Jeep dealer check any vehicle you might consider buying before you do so. Fuel consumption is also something to think about with the 6.4-litre V8, it uses fuel and usually more than most people anticipate when they buy one.

If you can drive other similar Rangers to see if it affects more than yours. If it does it could be a common issue, if it doesn’t it would suggest there is something wrong with yours and you could take it up with Ford, either directly through the customer assistance people or with your dealer. As your car is near new you have good grounds to ask for it to be fixed.

The light is telling you there is a problem with the engine. Check the oil and coolant to make sure it’s not something simple; if there’s no problem there take it to a Peugeot dealer or a mechanic for a diagnostic check.

I assume it’s with AM reception. It’s usually put down to the antenna. The most likely reason they’re ignoring it is that there is little they can do about it. You could take it to a car radio specialist and see what they might be able to do about the problem.

Subaru doesn’t offer a towbar for the WRX, and there isn’t any on offer in the aftermarket. There is talk of a towbar being made available at some point in the future, but at the moment there’s no provision for towing with the WRX.

Hyundai has the Elantra, Honda the Civic, and Toyota the Camry. All can be bought as sedans and all fall within your budget. For mine the Camry represents the best value for the money.