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Which smallish SUV for under $20,000 for beach driving?
Answered by Malcolm Flynn · 30 May 2018

For beach and basic trail driving I'd be aiming for something with a locking centre differential, which all-wheel drive versions of the previous generation X-Trail certainly had. Another suitable good value option would be an all-wheel drive Hyundai ix35. Both of which were available in diesel. Any common issues will likely be highlighted on our X-Trail and ix35 problems pages.

Which small hatch should I buy for $15,000?
Answered by Matt Campbell · 30 May 2018

The Holden Spark has been discontinued in Australia, with the company citing low volume as the main issue. But if that doesn't deter you, it's still a solid buy at under $15,000. Dealers have plenty of stock still on showroom floors, and you can get really good prices on 2017-plate models for less than $15k, drive-away. Shop for the LT if this is the car you like most, because it has a better features list than the LS.

Probably best to steer clear of the regular Barina, which is admittedly bigger, but definitely not better. The current-generation model could find its way to the automotive graveyard this year, too. 

The Mirage isn't as good as either the Barina or Spark, so unless you just want a very inexpensive car, it's not high on our recommendation list. The Yaris is lagging behind the times in terms of features, but there's a reason it's a go-to for many budget car buyers: it's a strong offering for space and comfort. 

All of that said, the Kia Picanto is the budget car we'd most likely recommend, because it has a strong and long warranty and is the only one in the mix with auto emergency braking (AEB). Plus it has a reversing camera as standard (the base model Spark doesn't). 

How to remove a Mazda RX-8 radio?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 29 May 2018

Turn the gear knob anti-clockwise, the pop the centre console out using trim removal tools. Remove two Phillips head screws holding the base of the radio trim and ashtray to the centre console support structure. Pull the ashtray and cigarette lighter assembly out. Remove the plastic trim from under the steering column, then remove the two Phillips head screws under the radio trim panel in the centre console, and one bolt tucked up the side of the radio unit which is accessed from the passenger side. The radio then pops out of its clips when lifted from the bottom of the unit..

How long is a Isuzu D-Max?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 29 May 2018

While all second-generation Isuzu D-Max pick-ups ride on a 3095mm wheelbase the other dimensions differ depending on the specification ordered. The single cab is 5215mm long while the dual cab is 5295mm in length. Widths range from 1775mm to 1860mm, and height ranges from 1690mm to 1785mm depending if you choose a 4x2, 4x4, single cab, space cab or dual cab.

Is the Jeep Patriot four-wheel drive?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 29 May 2018

4x2 Jeep Patriots are rear-wheel drive, but 4x4 models are more complicated. Base model Jeep Patriots run in Front Wheel Drive mostly, only sending up to 30% of power to the rear wheels when wheel slip at the front is detected, which means they're technically AWD not 4x4. The optional CVT-only Freedom Drive II drive system allows an electronically lockable set-up and is a proper 4x4 set-up.

How to remove a Jeep Patriot door panel?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 29 May 2018

Remove the T20 bolt in the door grab/pull enclosure (not the handle), then use trim removal levers to pop the centre section of the door panel off. Undo the two 10mm bolts on the underside of the door skin, and the T20 bolt behind the door handle cover. Pry the speaker grille off and unbolt the speaker, with two bolts and two long T20 bolts to remove the speaker, then remove the two 10mm bolts at the front of the door card holding the door panel to the door skin. Pop the mirror cover off, then remove two 10mm bolts from the centre section of the door panel. Remove the three Allen key bolts holding the window regulator to the door and the door panel can be removed by lifting up, and then disconnecting the door handle from behind the door panel.

When is the new Mazda BT-50 coming out?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 29 May 2018

Mazda has confirmed the current BT-50 generation will not be replaced until after 2020, though it has recently received a minor facelift update.

Where is the Mazda BT-50 built?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 29 May 2018

While Australian-delivery Mazda BT 50 pick-ups are built in Rayong, Thailand, the platform is also made in South Africa for other markets.

Hyundai Santa Fe 2018: How to program the key fob?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 29 May 2018

Press the button on the key fob and remove the emergency key inside. Use a small flat-head screwdriver in the slot behind where the emergency key located to prise the case apart, turning in an anti-clockwise direction. Replace the CR2032 battery and snap the case back together. Reprogramming the key requires a professional locksmith or Hyundai dealership as specialist equipment is required to code the key.

Toyota RAV4 2018: All-wheel drive or four-wheel drive?
Answered by Iain Kelly · 29 May 2018

Toyota have sold their RAV4 model in both all wheel drive and front wheel drive guises, but have no opted to sell a rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive model. The difference between all wheel drive and four wheel drive comes down to AWD vehicles lacking locking hubs or a low-range option in the transmission.

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