Ask The Guide

I understand what you're trying to do, and the Amarok wheel might well fit, but I wouldn't recommend it. The Amarok wheels are 16 x 6.5-inch, the Q5's are 17 x 8-inch. Go to an Audi dealer, or a specialist mechanic and try to find a more suitable steel wheel.

That all sounds like dealer speak for "I haven't got a clue what's wrong." There shouldn't be an undue delay in starting, the engine should crank immediately the key is turned of the starter pressed, and the engine should start within a couple of seconds. If it doesn't there is something wrong. The power steering shouldn't drop out, if it does as you say there is again something wrong. Take it back to your dealer and ask then to investigate the problems and fix them.

It is not unusual for the engine fan to run for a short time after the engine is turned off, although it's more common on engines with turbochargers, and it's done to cool the turbocharger before it's shut down. I don't believe there's anything untoward happening with your car.

It would seem that there is an electronic issue with your car; the challenge for the dealer is to find the cause so it can be fixed. The car is still in warranty so you should be pressing the dealer and Mitsubishi to fix it, and fast. Go back to the dealer and find out when the Mitsubishi rep will be checking your car. If you get no satisfaction from the dealer, go directly to Mitsubishi's customer assistance people (Ph: 1300 13 12 11) and explain your problem to them.

The guiding price range is $7500 to $9500. With such low mileage I would expect yours to fall at the higher end of that range.

Both are 5-star rated by ANCAP, both have similar levels of tech features, but the Volvo S60 diesel is marginally better on fuel. As for look, that's in the eye of the beholder.

Both are well suited to everyday use around town. They're comfortable, fuel-efficient and safe. The Dualis is a little cheaper than the Sportage, but I would definitely go for the Sportage. I would expect them to have a similar resale value when it comes time to sell, but the reputation of the Sportage for quality and reliability would make it easier to move on.

The Cruze transmission is a major problem and what you have experienced is common. The transmission needs to be replaced. Don't accept what the dealer is saying; have them approach Holden about getting a new transmission.

You could jump in and drive away, but I would recommend you take the time to run it in before putting it to work, particularly if you're planning on going on a long caravanning trip. Run it to the first service before doing any heavy towing with it.

I doubt that Ford would buy the car back from you outright, they would be more likely to offer you a trade-in deal on a new car. As a guide I would expect you would get $11,000 to $12,000 as a trade-in on your car. Talk to Ford and find out what they are offering; you can then consider your options. If you feel it's not enough you could go to the consumer affairs people, or join the class action that's being run on this problem.