Ask The Guide

It's an aid to help starting in very cold conditions. You shouldn't normally need to use it.

Toyota is keeping the information on specs and prices close to its chest until the launch, which is expected in the first half of 2017.

Try a sound system specialist; they are doing that sort of thing all the time. Another possibility is Mordialloc Auto Parts, they specialize in Subarus.

Ford's offer is pathetic. The trade-in value for your 2014 Focus is $12,000-$14,000, not the pitiful $5000 you have been offered. That shows how much Ford values the cars they produced. Start by going to Consumer Affairs and enlisting their help to negotiate a better deal, also consider joining the class action against Ford being run on this issue.

The Camry is on run-out at the moment, which suggests there's an update coming soon. Next month would be on the cards. I wouldn't expect any big changes with it, after all Toyota is about to end local production in 2017. Waiting for the update depends on your needs, you might prefer the newer model, which will have a better resale when you sell than the current car, but Toyota has some deals on the outgoing model and it might be advantageous to snap one up now.

It's very hard to put a value on old cars like your father's. An average Magna of that age is usually worn out and worth next to nothing, but your father's being a low-mileage example in good condition might make $2500.

We were told that the Genesis hasn't been rated for towing and Hyundai hasn't released any towing accessories for it. Attempting to tow with it could void your warranty and your insurance, so it would not be advisable to attempt to fit a towbar.

We couldn't get any definitive info on the release date, and no one was giving away any details of pricing. All we were told is to expect an announcement soon. But with the special deals on the current LS running out on September 30, I would guess the new model is due shortly after that date.

I agree with your view of going Japanese for reliability. The Lancer would be one I would recommend, along with the Mazda3 and the Toyota Corolla. They're comfortable, fuel-efficient, safe, and have decent performance.

It doesn't matter what brand of fuel you use, the problem in the fuel-injectors. It's a problem with today's common-rail diesel engines and the injectors used in them. The only solution is to replace them. Phone Toyota's customer assistance people (Ph: 1800 869 682) if you want to pursue the problem.