Mercedes-Benz C-Class Problems

If it has a dipstick it can, but you'll find your car doesn't. Automatic transmissions these days are so-called "filled for life", which means they're filled with fluid at the factory and there should be no need to regular checks or top-ups. If you want to change the fluid, which can be a good idea, you need to go to an auto trans specialist.

The X3 would be fine but you should also - perhaps surprisingly - consider a Volvo XC60 which I rate as slightly better than the BMW as a secondhand choice.

If you want to have your cake and to eat it too, then you need Airmatic. It will improve comfort, and also agility in the Sport suspension setting, but it will cost you around $2500.

If you're retiring and you have the cash, you should reward yourself. I would recommend the excellent Mercedes-Benz C-Class, but not a diesel unless you do more than 30,000km a year.

A second-hand C-Class is a great choice but, if you can, stretch to the latest C200. It's a landmark car, gets The Tick from me and was an easy winner in our 2014 Car of the Year.

Yes, you can. Any normal tyre can be fitted to a run-flat rim.

Benz spokesman David McCarthy says: "We will resume six-cylinder C-Class imports with the C450 AMG Sport early next year. The bonus will be it will also be available as an Estate".

The resale figures are right and reflect the booming demand for AMG cars of all types, and especially the C63, in Australia.

The Mazda6 is very good and great for the price but the Mercedes C-Class wagon is a couple of steps further up the ladder and an excellent car if you have the money.