Ask The Guide

There’s possibly a problem with the body ECM or the ignition switch. Take it to your dealer and have it checked.

It won’t be a gearbox fault, and it won’t be air in the fuel. It’s happening on first starts, so look for something that’s amiss with it during the cold start phase. It’s probably not getting the required enrichment. Check the engine sensors.

I doubt the E39 will ever be considered a classic, particularly a run-of-the-mill model like the 525i. If I were to buy one I would buy the six-cylinder.

The Golf Highline would be a good choice for your daughter.

The VX had the old 3.8-litre V6; the VZ had the later Alloytec engine. I expect it would physically fit, but I would also expect the radiator and thermostat to be different. I wouldn’t recommend it.

There’s no need to do anything, VW is fixing your current concerns, and who know what might happen in the future. You could have further problems and you might have to pay for the repairs, but you might not have any and you wont have to fork out anything. I wouldn’t lose any sleep over it, but if you are really worried, sell the car or trade it in.

Instead of buying new why not buy a used one like the one that was stolen. If not why not look at something like a Kia Sorento or Toyota Kluger.

It appears to be a problem with the red. Contact Mazda on 1800 034 411.

It sounds like the clear coat is peeling away, and that’s not unusual for cars around time. It’s a problem with the paint and the only fix is to repaint it.

While its age could be of concern the kilometres are low, so that should give you some comfort going forward. There shouldn’t be any great concern about potential problems, ad long as it has been properly maintained, and you continue to service it as required.