Ask The Guide

Virtually all of today’s automatic transmissions are ‘sealed for life’. That is, they are filled with fluid at the factory and never need checking or topping up with fluid. But the fluid does get hot and can be contaminated over time, so it’s a good idea to have the fluid changed regularly. Some auto transmission mechanics will say it should be done every 20,000 km or so, or every year, others will say something different. It is more important if a car has been used for towing, because the fluid comes under greater stress in that situation. But in your case, I would suggest you leave well enough alone and not worry about it.

We’re fortunate that virtually all cars on the market today are rated at 5 stars, which is currently the highest rating in the testing program. You can’t wrong if you buy a car with a five-star rating.

Check the status of the car on the Vicroads website. Providing there is nothing untoward about it, no money owing on it etc., there shouldn’t be any problem. If the registration has been cancelled it will require a current roadworthy certificate to reregister it.

Even though it’s older I would suggest that the i30 is perhaps the better buy with its low kays, but the i20 is also a good car and hasn’t done a lot of kays. Make sure the odometer readings are genuine; they are low for the ages of the cars.

If only it was that easy. I assume that it’s not giving you any trouble now, but if it is you could get it repaired under the warranty. If it’s not I don’t see you have grounds for a full refund, even though that model has a poor reputation for its transmission troubles. If you had done your homework before buying it you would have found lots of reports on the troublesome transmission.

One to try would be the Michelin Primacy SUV.

A great car, but they consume rear tyres at an alarming rate. It’s also now old and has possibly been thrashed by previous owners. Get it checked by an independent Mercedes-Benz specialist.

The Captiva is rated to tow 2000 kg. The kerb weight the dealer gave you is correct.

Are they saying their paint isn't capable of withstanding the odd drop of bird poo? Holden’s response is unsatisfactory. Seek the help of a paint specialist who should be able to give you an assessment of what caused the flaking, and then take that assessment to Holden. Another option is to take your claim to VCAT.

There are locksmiths who can supply keys for the CX-5. You can find them online.