Honda Problems

You will get great value and a classy car in the Suzuki Grand Vitara. The CR-V also goes well and is slightly better value than a RAV4.

From my experience, the Grand Vitara has the best reputation for reliability and for you it ticks the boxes. Next would be the Honda CR-V, then the Dualis with the ASX definitely last.

The Civic is so good — one of the best Japanese cars I have driven for a very long time and a definite for The Tick — that I wouldn't bother about the Nissan.

Before you make an expensive car switch, try changing to a quieter tyre. You don't say which model Mazda3 you have, but some sportier versions have aggressive tread for grip and they can generate quite a lot of noise including drumming from the rear. Otherwise, I've just driven the all-new Honda Civic and it's very quiet and comfy.

Buying on-line requires the same careful consideration as buying from anywhere else. You certainly don't buy sight unseen; always see the car for yourself. Be wary if the seller suggests meeting in a public place, or at night, or somewhere that might make you suspicious. It's always worth having someone else with you at the time. If you want something a little more exciting you could look at various European brands, Like VW, Renault, Skoda, but in saying that I need to add that the Asian brands like Honda will generally be cheaper to run and maintain than the Europeans.

Honda's Neil McDonald says: "The dealership tested the vehicle and no fault was found with the Passenger Side Airbag. They did, however, find the SRS light illuminated due to an internal failure in the seat belt pre-tensioner. Although this is unrelated to any previous concerns raised by the customer, Honda is covering the cost of this repair for the customer as a goodwill gesture."