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Kia Sorento 2017: Is it worth waiting for the updated version?

There is a new model on the way, as you say, and we would say hold off if you can.

 

How long do customers wait for replacement parts?

That is appalling service. If the required parts were not available here they should have been airfreighted in. Contact Renault's customer help service and ask for their help. (Ph 1800 009 008).

Toyota RAV4 2013: Gear slipping problem

It is hard for a dealer to replicate a problem if it doesn't happen with any regularity, so persist with the dealer, and if that doesn't result in your satisfaction report the problem directly to Toyota (ph 1800 869 682).

Nissan Pulsar 2014: When is it recommended to change the transmission fluid?

The transmission in your car is a CVT and changing the oil is definitely recommended. If you doubt that the full service hasn't been done go back to the dealer and ask for an explanation.

Mazda BT-50: Engine shutdown

 There have been other reports of BT-50s and Rangers shutting down, but they can usually be restarted. The problem with that is that the problem doesn't exist when the car is taken to a mechanic to find the cause, but because yours wouldn't restart the mechanic might be able to identify the cause.

 

Any solutions to a shuddering clutch on a 2014 Ford Focus Trend?

It seems there is no fix for this problem. Ford has come under intense scrutiny for its handling of the problem and treatment of customers with problem cars. Even the ACCC has decided to get involved, which is very rare. You could ask Ford for a refund or a replacement car, but as the ACCC chairman pointed out the deal Ford offers customers looking to get out of their cars isn't a great one. If you don't get any satisfaction from Ford go to the state government's consumer affairs department for advice, or call the ACCC.

What's a cheap and reliable car to learn to drive in?

The Corolla is a good choice; they are generally reliable and cheap to run. One word of warning, however, is that they used the Takata airbags, which are the subject of one of the biggest recalls in history. Should you buy a Corolla check to see if the airbag has been replaced. If it hasn't have it replaced, if it has check to see what the replacement airbag was as this might need replacing sometime in the future. I would recommend against buying European, cheap Euros tend to be expensive in the long run.

Mitsubishi Pajero or Isuzu D-MAX: Chassis cracking on ute?

Mining company utes operate in the harshest environments there are, so I wouldn't take a lot of notice of hearsay reports of problems. The chassis might indeed crack under the stress of the mining site, but that's a far different environment than anything you will encounter in your travels.

Volkswagen Tiguan 2017: How much does it cost to update the sat-nav?

The updating of sat-nav systems in cars of all makes is a problem. My view is that the system should be updated to the latest status during pre-delivery at the dealer, then automatically updated as needed when the car is taken in for service. The cost for these updates should be minimal, but car companies seem to view as a way making money and they’ll charge whatever they can get away with. I also sometimes think Australians are taken for dummies as well.

Are there any problems with Volkswagen's 6 speed DSG?

The 6-speed DSG doesn’t appear to have the same problems as the 7-speed. We’re not aware of any changes to the 1.4-litre timing chain.

Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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