Mercedes-Benz Problems

Mercedes-Benz Australia admits there is a problem but has no timeline yet on a solution. I'm not a fan of the Keyless Go in any case and my solution is to plug the electronic key into the slot beneath the silver start button. Remove the plastic cap first.

Good for you and thanks for the news. I agree updates should be free, even if car makers argue they have to pay for the data and uploading.

Electrical problems can quickly become costly but you will notice a big step down in comfort and class if you downgrade to a Hyundai. It's a sensible move on the budget front but make sure you understand the implications — take a long test drive in the Accent before you commit.

The only reason to go European with that budget is to buy a badge, as the Asian cars do the job and are surprisingly classy with great warranty. Once again, I'd send you first to Kia to check out the Sportage.

I don’t see any reason why it wouldn’t tow your boat; it has a towing rating of 2500 kg, and normally that means a towball load of 250 kg.

You could go for a Mercedes-Benz GLC with similar features and save money. My choice — perhaps surprisingly — is the Jeep. Just make sure you find a good dealer.

For me, your best choice would be a Mercedes-Benz GLA (above left). It is the SUV of the baby Benz range, with good space and comfort, the space, safety and seats you need with a hatch to get access to the boot. It definitely gets The Tick from me.

We often criticise cars for excessive tyre roar on country roads. You're another victim of big wheels and low-profile tyres on a C250, which is the sportier model below the C63 AMG, multiplied by the harshness of runflats. You need to get back to 18-inch rims with higher-profile regular tyres to reduce the road roar, perhaps test driving a basic C200 for a noise test.

Probably not a record but encouraging news for our readers who have recently complained about batteries lasting for just a few years.