Innholdsfortegnelse for February 2024 i Car Mechanics

► I still can’t quite believe it’s happened as it seems only yesterday that I was collecting my daughter from primary school, but Katie has just turned 17. We were hoping to buy her a car as a birthday present. However, something that’s affordable insurance-wise for a 17-year-old but which also has sufficient ‘street cred’ for her – and which is also sufficiently reliable and in good enough condition to satisfy me – has so-far proved elusive. So, while the funds have been earmarked, for her actual birthday, I bought her instead a personalised registration (direct from DVLA, so no classics were harmed or robbed in its acquisition) – plus of course her provisional driving licence. Incidentally, while checking the licence details were correct, I spotted something else rather scary.…

► The original British motor oil, Duckhams, is celebrating the success of its global expansion drive, doubling its global network over the past 12 months. The iconic oil brand is now available in 27 countries across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Duckhams has a long history dating back to 1899, when Alexander Duckham first established his own oil company. Duckhams was responsible for the development of revolutionary new process oils that controlled the build-up of carbon deposits in the 1920s and launched the first synchromesh gear oil in the 1930s. In 1951, Duckhams introduced Europe's first multi-grade oil, an innovation which transformed lubrication technology. After moving to new ownership, Duckhams received support during a successful UK relaunch in 2017. Along with new packaging and branding, Duckhams began an expansion…

For the past couple of months, the owner of this 2006 BMW 120d had been topping-up the coolant reservoir to ensure it maintained the correct level. At first it only required a small amount of coolant to keep the level correct, but over the past couple of weeks it had swallowed up the rest of the coolant he had purchased for the job. At this point he decided it was time to get the leak fixed and brought the 1-Series along to me. Before I had even got the system pressure tester in place, the stains left by the escaping coolant could easily be spotted. The water pump was surrounded with the pink dust left by the evaporating coolant. The job time for replacing the pump is 2.25 hours, but…

► Getting into some DIY tasks as a very amateur home mechanic has been hugely rewarding. I’m nowhere near tackling anything too tricky and will still resort to a professional where needed, but I’m getting more confident and love getting stuck into routine tasks. The trouble is, word obviously gets around that you ‘can do cars’ and I had a neighbour approach me last week and ask me to take a look at their motor. He said he knew nothing at all about cars, which is fine, and hadn’t had his in for a service for a few years and it was starting to run poorly. Alarm bells started ringing but I agreed to have a quick look. My first thought was he was likely well overdue for an oil…

STAR LETTER ► I refer to the Diagnostics Doctor letter (CM, Nov23, p95). I had a rather similar experience with a 2012 Hyundai i30 1.6 diesel. It was way down on power, sluggish when overtaking and, when travelling up a minor hill a downshift was necessary. The car was due a service. It was serviced – all filters were changed. After the service the cars performance had improved – but was not back to normal. I was stumped as to what was the issue. It was starting perfectly every time. About 800/900 miles after the service I pulled in to a filling station, which has a garage attached. One of the mechanics was on the forecourt, dealing with another person. When he was finished I told him of my difficulty.…

► The term ‘Vehicle Service’ is used to describe many different levels of maintenance. So, it’s hardly surprising some people think it only involves an engine oil change, but other people think it is an in-depth inspection and full reconditioning of their vehicle. I’m now happily retired, but was a manager in charge of a vehicle workshop maintaining a large fleet of emergency vehicles. An apparently intelligent senior officer once demanded that I sign a written guarantee that all serviced vehicles returned from the workshop would never develop any faults, or break down, until they were due for their next scheduled vehicle service. I told the senior officer that even the manufacturer’s warranty on a new vehicle does not guarantee that it won’t develop faults or break down – they…

GENERAL Q Are there any reasonably-priced scanners out there that can show up ABS sensors? One that would cover most vehicles would be good. Stuart Anderson A Unlike the EOBD systems, the ABS systems on vehicles can use different systems according to the manufactures discretion and so the scanner needed to cover a range of vehicles does have to be loaded with a better software library. This does of course increase the cost. But it is often worth paying for the scanner as it will over the years certainly pay for itself. The Launch CRP123 Premium at £180 would cover the ABS applications on most vehicles. As would the Foxwell NT680 Lite 4 Systems Scan Tool which is around £199. Either of these should carry out the functions you require.…

Q I have a 2016 Jeep Renegade 1.4 – this has recently developed a fault with the passenger side power window. The window is capable of winding down, but will not come back up. The down signal works as expected with the one-touch control from either the driver’s side control panel or the passenger side control panel. I know the motor is working OK as I managed to get the window back up by removing the control module from the motor drive and connecting a 12V source to the exposed motor terminals. The motor functions correctly when 12V polarity is swapped, driving the window both up and down. Therefore, I assumed the control module controlling the motor drive has failed, possibly the internal relay as I could not hear this…

Q Can you please advise on a possible clutch problem with a 2009 model year Volvo V50 (VIN204292457051), B4163S engine and IB5 gearbox? I have had this car for just under three years and changed the clutch using a Valeo 826935 2-part kit and slave cylinder Valeo 810117. This was because of a noisy release bearing and the impression that the friction plate was near the end of its life, because the clutch only engaged fully when the pedal was near the upper end of its travel. There was no apparent slipping of the clutch. Mileage then was 96,500. A new crankshaft and gearbox spigot shaft seals were fitted. When I examined the old clutch (Ford 161878077401) I was surprised to find that there still seemed to be a reasonable…

Q The Volvo dealer told me that the rear brake pads on my 2017 Volvo S90 2.0 D4 auto need replacing (at 28k miles). This is something that I’m able to do but need a bit of advice please. I know that the rear calipers incorporate a handbrake electric motor to apply the pads. I understand that the piston can’t be manually wound back, there are two options. 1) Remove the electric motor and then wind-back the piston manually via the pin that engages with the motor. Will this need a new gasket and new Torx screws? 2) Leave the motor in place but apply 9V (or 12V) to the two pins which would make the motor wind the piston fully back. Which would you recommend? The S90 is reasonably…

Q Can you please tell me the torque wrench settings required for changing a front spring on a 61-plate Citroën DS3 1.6 HDI? Thanks in advance. Craig Christie A The tightening torques I have from Citroën are as follows: Anti-roll bar link arms 43Nm, centre hub nut 245Nm if 72mm and 325Nm if 82mm, lower balljoint to hub carrier 40Nm, strut to hub fixing 55Nm, top nut on suspension leg 75Nm, track rod end 35Nm, brake disc to hub 10Nm, brake caliper to carrier 30Nm, brake caliper to carrier 105Nm, road wheels 100Nm. This should cover all you need to remove and refit in the spring replacement.…

Q I have just purchased a new (2023) Citroën C3 Aircross with a 1.2 130bhp engine. On reading reviews etc., the engine oil spec seems very important, but in the UK I am finding it difficult to decide what oil to use for topping-up between dealer services. I only cover about 5000 miles a year. Roy Middleton A From the details I have this should have the engine code HNS (EB2ADTS), and the specified oil recommended is SAE 0W-20 Synthetic, confirming to PSA B71 2010. This is a mid-SAPS (Sulfated Ash Phosphorus and Sulfur) oil. The capacity of the engine is 3.5 litres. I would not expect the engine to need topping-up between services, but of course it is important to check. Citroën normally recommend Mobil oil and the oil…

Q I would like to ask your opinion with regards to the oil consumption on my 2012 Peugeot RCZ 1.6 petrol (THP 156bhp). I am generally pleased with the vehicle, but it seems to use a little more engine oil (about a pint roughly per month/ six weeks) than I would have expected. Is this normal, and if this is normal does the engine need to use oil? George Kemp A The general rule with engine oil use is that around 1 litre to 3000 miles is acceptable with some engines using far more at a rate of 1 litre per 1000 miles. It will depend on your monthly usage as to whether the one pint every four-six weeks is acceptable. If your annual mileage is around 8000 miles this…

Q, I have a 2014 Peugeot 208 diesel automatic 1.4 HDi. The radio infotainment unit went completely dead, not coming on. It’s on warranty, so Peugeot said they replaced the unit, but it went dead again after a few cycles. I took it back and they initially said it needs an additional part. Now they are saying it could need a software update. This they said wasn’t possible on the radio in the first visit. It’s now booked in again. Do you know if any updates are possible that might remedy this fault, or are they just wasting time? Paul Ashford A For the screen to go completely dead, this does sound as though it is more of a problem with the screen as opposed to the software, but it…

Q I seem to have a problem with the clutch assembly on my 2007 Renault Laguna 1.6. The clutch was replaced about 20,000 kilometres ago, but is already showing signs of slipping. It's quite heavy to operate and the biting point is very high through the pedal travel. All elements were replaced with quality Sachs parts, including the pressure plate and the releaser. Is it possible that a thermallydamaged flywheel is the culprit? Greg Piwowarski A The clutch operation on your Laguna is hydraulically-operated and generally this should give a fairly light clutch compared to a cable system. It could be the case that an overheated and damaged flywheel is giving a lower coefficient of friction, allowing an earlier than expected failure of the clutch, but if this was the…

Q I’ve come up against a bit of problem regarding the wishbones on my 2004 Renault Clio II 2.0. Renault have now discontinued them, and it would seem not released the pattern to the aftermarket. Entering my reg number into every single aftermarket supplier website, the ones they list all have the wrong anti-roll bar connection. See attachments. However, after much web searching I stumbled across some Delphi ones TC740/741 that had the right connection. Looking at their e-catalogue it shows they were fitted to a 2003 2.0 8v Megane and speaking to their technical helpline the advisor said there was a good chance they’d match up. Got some today but I noticed that the balljoint mounting bolts are a smaller diameter than mine, I can’t give you exact shank…

Q I’m having some problems with my 2018 Renault Master LWB van. The van is running/driving fine, but out of the blue yesterday the blower stopped working – aircon switch is lit up but when pressed won’t turn off – no fan at all on any setting. At the same time, the ABS light came on the dash along with ESP and there is no speedometer working either. After plugging in to see what fault codes were present, there was only one, which is DF 263 and it’s constantly active straight after trying to clear it. I have also noticed that I can’t communicate with the ABS system, it goes to 50% on the scanner then just jumps straight to the airbag system. I have checked the battery voltage and…

Q I have a 2012 Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost. A few months ago, the engine warning light came on, using an OBD adapter and FORSCAN software on my laptop I was able to read the code P0420 -Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold. I cleared the code, but it returned a few weeks later. I again cleared the code though this time put a bottle of Cataclean in before doing a 200-mile journey. Again, the code returned a few weeks later. My first thought is the catalytic converter has failed – however I’ve heard that this could also be caused by one of the O2 sensors giving a bad reading. I can view the live data from the sensors using FORSCAN. Will I be able to tell if a sensor is…

► Our 11th ‘yellow book’ is on-sale at WHSmith stores and online. As part of the CM Expert range, we have put together this 100-page book printed from previously-published articles in CM. You will find professional advice on working on timing belts and chains in general; looking at the subject of variable valve timing; plus step-by-step model specific belt and chain replacements. Priced at £9.99 – or a digital copy at £8.99 – or you can take out an annual subscription to the next four forthcoming books at £35.96. See our advert on pages 92-93 or visit our website at: shop.kelsey.co.uk/car-mechanicsexpert-magazine…

Follow Rob on Twitter: #CarTechJourno Compared to those trundling around the UK road network, when this magazine debuted, current vehicles are computers on wheels. While it remains true that most of today’s cars retain internal combustion engines, and therefore, a degree of mechanical integrity, they are still controlled electrically. Much of this is down to necessity. With our roads becoming considerably busier, engines had to become more fuel-efficient, reliable and powerful, while being less polluting. More accurate means of metering fuel and ignition were made possible only after replacing relatively imprecise mechanical distributors and carburettors with more accurate electronic ignition and fuel injection. Early injected cars tended to use a single computer/Electronic Control Unit, whereas current cars employ multiple ECUs that communicate together. Our investigations into both ECUs (August 2023…

► Turbo specialist Melett has highlighted the devastating consequences of loose shaft nuts within turbocharger assemblies, warning to be wary of the effects. If a vehicle is suffering from rattling or grinding noises during operation, and drivers experience loss of engine power, this could be due to a loose shaft nut on the turbocharger. In a turbocharger assembly, the shaft nut, also known as a ‘locknut’ or an ‘impeller locknut’, plays a critical role in holding the compressor wheel and rotor group parts to the shaft. To ensure proper functionality, the shaft nut must be tightened using the correct procedure and setting. If there is any kind of resistance or locking up within the rotor, the centrifugal force will continue, and the shaft nut will come loose. Overspeeding can cause…

► Leading lubricants and oils supplier Exol Lubricants has invested one million pounds into a state-of-the-art automated liquid transfer system, delivered to reduce waste product lost during the blending process. Following investigative work into product losses during production, a new, sustainable project called a Pigging Line has been installed at Exol Lubricants’ blending plant in Rotherham. Pigging refers to technologies that use specialist projectiles to recover, rather than waste, residual liquid in pipelines. Liquid product recovery is used to reclaim product from pipelines, to reduce waste, increase yields and capacity, and improve the efficiency of manufacturing and production processes. Simon Matthews, Product Development Manager at Exol Lubricants, comments: “Following the initial commissioning process, losses of up to 50,000 litres per day have been recovered, with multiple transfers speeding up loading…

One of the big changes over the past few years is to the technology of the humble alternator pulley. Instead of being a fixed drive, the modern alternator pulley on a wide range of vehicles now has a clutch or overrunning alternator pulley – this is also described as a decoupler. This is fitted to improve the smooth operation and help with fuel consumption and like everything its great till things go wrong. This Vito was becoming a little sluggish to start in the mornings and the owner decided to go out and get a new battery – that solved the problem for around three weeks then it returned to the sluggish starting. He popped in to ask me to check the charging. I discovered that the battery was only…

Follow Steve on Twitter: www.twitter. com/cmtips Often the simple jobs can turn out to be a little more involved, and I was concerned that the battery change on this 2005 MG ZR was going to be one such job. The owner had called up and explained that the battery was flat and asked for a price for me to fit the replacement. While she was on the phone her other half shouted out to her that it was OK and after a jump-start the MG was now running. I did say that the battery would probably still need checking but she was happy that they could sort that out themselves. Then around four hours later I received a second call, we have the battery can you pop it on for…

The feel of the clutch had been getting progressively worse for some months, but it was only when this little 2012 Fiat 500 0.9-litre, refused to go into gear that the owner decided it was going to get even worse if not attended to. Bracing herself for the cost of a new clutch, the owner asked me to have a look and give her a price for the repair. I could feel that the problem was hydraulic and knowing that the slave cylinder on this Fiat is external I was not expecting to have to remove the gearbox to fulfil the repair. My first check was to access the slave cylinder at the top of the gearbox, and I expected to find this in a mucky state with clutch fluid…

I may be repeating myself here, but I have mentioned before I am not the greatest fan of electric parking brakes. Whilst they do mainly work fine and operate without issue, when a problem does occur it can leave the owner stranded. The owner of this 2014 Land Rover Discovery 4 SDV6 3.0 had recently had a problem with the battery draining down overnight. This turned out to be an aftermarket dashcam system that he had fitted, but the issue was that with a flat battery he was unable to move the vehicle as he couldn’t release the parking brake. His Land Rover was sitting on the drive blocking in his wife’s Vauxhall Astra, and she was keen to get to work. Thankfully on the Land Rover Discovery 4 there…

What motorist hasn’t experienced brake judder. That steering shimmy which wants to shake your hands from the steering wheel? The cause is usually patently obvious – worn or warped brake discs. But it’s how the problem is eradicated which needs more thought than you’d initially credit. According to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), brake faults account for some 20% of MOT failures and discs can fall foul on the visual examination as well as a poor brake balance test. Replacing worn brake discs is now almost as much a service requirement as fitting spark plugs as both their typical service lives are around 60-80,000 miles – or after the third brake pad renewal. In the majority of cases, disc replacement as opposed to refacing existing components is the…

► I have a couple of comments on the Tesla Model 3 article you printed in the December 2023 issue: Sunroofs sticking – the model 3 has a fixed glass roof which doesn’t open. I think the sticking roof comments apply to the sunroof equipped Model S. Also if buying or owning a car which is coming to the end of its 5-year, 50,000 warranty, particularly if at the higher mileage end, it is worth getting an independent inspection carried out a couple of months before warranty end. Cleevely EV seem particularly knowledgeable on what to look for. A number of people have had quite a lot of work done to their Teslas, some into thousands of pounds. Usually worn suspension joints, etc., carried-out under warranty as a result of…

► Following JE Kirby’s letter (CM, July 23) about topping up brake reservoirs; I wholeheartedly agree. I have always been wary of doing this ever since having the brake fluid overflow once when pushing back pistons. So for the past 30 years I have never added brake fluid at a minor service; simply just checked the level. As he says, the level should slowly go down, although in my experience the fluid is renewed before much of a level drop is noticed. I am glad I am not the only one who has saved the opening of the bottle of brake fluid for doing renewals or after repairs. Ian Hildrew…

► Having just read the article on 30 accessories (CM, October 2023) from times gone by, I just had to raise the following as not included in your listing. What about those DIY alarm systems popular in the late 80s by Moss. Depending on budget you could buy differing systems or could even add to your existing alarm with ultrasonic sensors or shock sensors as you saved up some money. One squelch for armed and two squelches for disarmed. Also the humble road atlas where you would sit down and plan your journey for holidays before setting off. I remember hard-backed atlases by the AA and the likes. Also those black sun louvre guards you could buy for your rear window and normally fitted to Ford Cortinas with the raised…

► Features stepless dimmer switch for both the main COB and the LED torch. ► Featuring a super bright 5W COB LED light source, which gives an even and constant spread of light, producing up to 400 lumens. ► Built-in emergency power bank to charge mobile devices. ► Top 3W high power LED torch producing up to 100 lumens. ► Integral hanging hook/belt clip and a magnetic base which can rotate through 180° for handsfree applications. ► Features a battery level indicator. ► Rechargeable 3.7V 1.2Ah Li-ion battery for longer life, no memory effect and a much slower discharge than traditional Ni-MH batteries.…

► I may have boobed slightly on a recent purchase. The car in question is a 2003/53 Saab 9-3 Aero saloon which, on paper, seemed to have pretty-much everything going for it; two owners from new, warranted 64,000 miles and an absolutely fabulous service history. It’s also the full turbo 210bhp petrol version. It was BCA listed as Grade 3 – unusual for a 20-year-old car – and came with a clean ‘Essentials’ report. But it was that history which really sold the beast to me – 15 stamps on a 20-year-old low-mileage car that’s supposed to be done every two years. Better still, when I collected the Saab, I saw that it had been serviced by a main dealer until 2010 and thereafter by a highly respected south east…

Q I have a strange problem with my 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2.7 CRD. The car starts and drives normally, but the immobiliser light near the radio continues to flash. When this happens, neither the wipers nor the radio works. Also, the lights on the overhead console that indicate the outside temperature, the ones on the radio that show the time and the ones below the radio which show the interior temperature remain blank. The other lights and the indicators work as normal. When this problem first started, if the Jeep was driven more than 20 miles there would be a ping, the immobiliser light went out and everything worked again. After stopping and restarting, the problem was there again. When my local garage used their code reader on the…

Q Could you please help me with a problem I have with my 2001 Volvo V70 2.4 engine? The problem is the low oil pressure light comes on when the engine gets to operating temperature. I have renewed the oil sensor and the water coolant sensor and have also changed to a thicker oil. I have also flushed the radiator. Thank you for any help you can give. Terry Burrell A Having already changed the sensor and I am presuming when the oil was changed so was the filter, then it may be the case that the oil light is showing because the oil pressure is reduced. The first check would be to see if this was the case by using an external oil pressure gauge on the engine. This…

Q I wonder if you could help regarding my 2008 Volvo C70 2.4 D5. I am a competent mechanic but the problem I have is electrical, which I am not too good at. I have owned the Volvo for just over two years and have no problems with the roof but in the boot is a yellow loading assistance switch. When the roof is open and folded inside the boot, you can press this switch and it raises the roof up about four inches so you can put small items in, you then press the switch and the roof drops back down. The switch has never worked since I have had the car (it is illuminated all the time like it should be) so I thought I would remove the…

Q I have a 1989 Citroën AX 1.0 which is going well but I have noticed a slight leak from the offside driveshaft oil seal. This is pretty annoying because I changed the seals when I fitted the driveshafts a couple of months ago, and I used Corteco seals which I understand are good quality. I also cleaned the surface of the shaft where the seal runs. I wondered, before I do the job again if there is anything I have missed? It has been suggested that I could use grease on the seal when I fit it. I did lubricate the seal with gearbox oil when I fitted it last. James Robbins A Unfortunately, it is not unique to have a new oil seal leak. Although technically everything seems…

Q I’ve recently bought the newest car I’ve ever owned – a 2016 Citroën C4 Cactus 110 PureTech. Annoyingly it seems the manufacturer doesn’t want you to do any maintenance yourself, as the manual has no such information, even of the basics! Neither could I persuade my local Citroën dealer to share their workshop manual! Sadly, no Haynes guides are available either and I can’t justify an Autodata subscription for just this vehicle. I’d like to change the gearbox oil next, as the gear change isn’t very smooth. Please can you confirm the oil spec and required quantity please? It’s the manual, five-speed gearbox on the 1.2 three-cylinder turbo petrol engine. Presumably there’s a level plug (I haven’t got under to look yet) for filling, or is it from above,…

Q Due to the current restrictions on driving my 2013 Peugeot 308 1.6 HDi, I am concerned about the DPF as I can’t take it for a quick blast up the M1 to regenerate it. I have seen it said that letting the engine tick-over for 15 minutes would do the job. I live in a hilly area and when I go to the shops I do a bit of a detour up hills in a low gear at fairly high revs for a few minutes. Am I wasting my time? Will Beck A I will first say that leaving the engine ticking over for 15 minutes will do nothing to help regenerate the DPF and would very likely have the opposite effect. A run up a hill in a…

Q I have a 2016 Peugeot Boxer 2.2 150bhp. With a Ford diesel engine? I have no idea unfortunately what ECU is fitted, sorry. We bought the vehicle about four months ago (it is a Moto-Trek EB). I had the radio from my exchanged Fiat Ducato, a Pioneer AVH-Z3200DAB to be installed. I bought a kit to install it as I was told it needs to be in CANbus for the steering wheel controls to work correctly. An Autowatch 695RLC was also fitted. Both items where installed by professionals. Not long after these items were fitted the odometer starting flashing with the ignition on. I googled this and many people replied that the Body Control Module requires ‘resetting’. I have a cheap OBDII reader but I get an error of…

Q I recently had to replace the driver’s door on my 2003 Renault Kangoo. When I came to remove the door handle and lock assembly, what I thought would be a two-minute job took a lot longer and I managed to break the plastic body at one point before it came out. The barrel of the lock (which was the next thing to remove) seemed to come out very easily after that, but it is one of those situations where I am not sure how I did it. I am looking to remove the handle assembly on the replacement door, but I’m concerned I will accidentally break this one as well, as I am looking to put the barrel from my old door handle assembly into the undamaged handle assembly…

Q Need some help with the electric windows on my 2008 Renault Megane 2 16v. The Megane has been standing and I have recently fitted a replacement engine and it is now running again, but none of the electric windows will work. Working on the driver’s door I have checked the motor, with a direct 12-volt feed and this worked fine. I have replaced Temic module twice, still nothing. At the 6-pin connector to the Temic module I have: PIN 1 – earth when switch is activated PIN 2 – earth when switch is activated PIN 3 – NEUTRAL PIN 4 – 12V supply PIN 5 – NOT USED PIN 6 – 12V supply It must be a common problem in the system affecting all windows, from the wiring diagram…

Have a problem vehicle? If you have a problem vehicle, Car Mechanics has the answer in the shape of our technical editor STEVE ROTHWELL. Contact Steve, as detailed below, for FREE advice on all car-related problems. Please help Steve to help you by giving as much information on the symptoms as you can – including the VEHICLE REGISTRATION NUMBER. As Help! is a free service, some complex questions may require more time and resources than we can reasonably allow – when this is the case we will let you know. Steve will reply to all queries as quickly as possible, but please allow up to 28 days for a reply. Difficult/ complex questions or those requiring research may take a little longer – please be patient. Neither Kelsey Publishing nor…

Q I have a 2001 Honda HR-V 1.6 petrol with CVT transmission. Until recently everything has been fine. I used a cheap code reader when the check engine light came on. The error code given was P1473. Looking this up in download workshop manual it says that it is a faulty EGT sensor. The light comes on when driving about 55-60mph with the aircon on or off. Sometimes it doesn’t come on. Two things really. Where is the sensor located? I can’t seem to find it. Also, I can’t locate a new EGT sensor. It is unavailable according to the Honda website that I checked. I assume that it is the sensor, and it would be a pity to have to scrap the car. Thanks for your help. Chris Gaskell…

Diagnostics Doctor is a FREE helpline service for CM readers – including trade readers – who are struggling with diagnostic/engine management related faults. Steve Rothwell will answer all your queries. He will need as much detail as possible: MAKE, MODEL, YEAR, ENGINE CODE and NUMBERPLATE of your vehicle – and the type of management system installed. Obviously, Steve will not be able to assess the vehicle up close, so his answer will be on the basis solely of your description. This is a FREE service and it may take some time to respond to certain problems. If you would like to receive a personal response via post, please enclose an SAE. e-mail: cmdiagnostics@yahoo.co.uk Write to: DIAGNOSTICS DOCTOR CAR MECHANICS, KELSEY MEDIA THE GRANARY, DOWNS COURT YALDING HILL, YALDING, KENT ME18…

Q The EML sporadically comes on in my 2001 VW Bora 1600 petrol SE Automatic, VW model code 1J2, engine type AVU and engine code BFQ. Usually accompanied by the ‘Emissions – Workshop’ legend on the indicator panel. Fault codes are: 16555 – Fuel Trim Bank 1 System Too Lean; 17811 -EGR System Control Difference; 17698 – A/C Engine Coolant (ECT) Sensor Radiator Outlet Signal Too Low; 16514 O2 Sensor Circuit, Bank 1, Sensor 1 Malfunction. There are also codes for misfires although these vary and include 16685 – Cylinder 1; 16686 -Cylinder 2; 16684 – Random Multiple Cylinder Misfire. The car runs extremely well – no misfiring although it can be a little rough when cold until it warms up. The car has had fitted a new: EGR; Lambda…

It was that time of year already with a family visit ‘down south’ to Shropshire looming. While the Clayton household’s wee 2013 Skoda Fabia 1.2 hatchback wouldn’t bat an eyelid at the 300-mile journey from Scotland, my stiff back and legs would have something to say, owing to the rather uncomfortable driving position this otherwise very good little runabout has to offer. After the hours spent getting my 2006 BMW 130i M Sport into service, it only seemed right to designate the Beemer with its superior comfort to the task! Some final jobs had to be completed first, however. Headlamps akimbo A few issues back I had replaced a defective driver’s side headlamp with a good second-hand replacement. Thinking no more of it until driving at dusk I could tell…

A AUDI A3 2.0 TDI, Electronic Diagnostics, Oct 23, p82-86 B BMW 5-series, front suspension rebuild, Sept 23, p46-48 7-series, suspension failure case study, Aug 23, p74-75 i3, Buying + Owning, June 23, p42-45 Z3, Saving from scrapyard, Nov 23, p40-43 Z4, Buying + Owning, Mar 23, p42-45 C Car accessories from long ago, Oct 23, p54-58 CITROËN C3 1.2, Service Bay, Dec 23, p62-66 C4 1.6 HDi, Electronic Diagnostics, Feb 23, p72-75 DS3 1.6 THP, Electronic Diagnostics, May 23, p70-73 CLUTCH CLINIC: Ford Mondeo Mk4, Clutch Clinic, Dec 23, p40-46 Vauxhall Astra J, Clutch Clinic, Sept 23, p50-54 CM Visit British Motor Museum, Nov 23, p76-77 Burton Power, Sept 23, p38-39 D Damp-proofing a Garage, Mar 23, p48-50 DIY Garage Makeover, June 23, p48-52 Driving Towards 2030 Maximising EV…

It’s all about TIMING ► Even though I have owned many cars (over 100) I promise you when I say I have never blown up an engine – yet. For sure, I have bought project cars in the past with knackered engines, but I have never had one implode, explode or otherwise expire during my incumbency. The reason for this mumble is that just this morning, I had a long phone call with an old sparring partner from my younger days where I was his metaphorical shoulder to cry on. The car in question is nothing to really worry about as he paid next to nothing for it, the used values are about as much as my shirt, and he’s already found and bought a replacement. So off to meet…

Email martyn.knowles@kelsey.co.uk Follow us on Facebook @ Car Mechanics Order back issues here: shop.kelsey.co.uk/single-issue/car-mechanics-magazine ► Some engines have timing belts that run around the engine in a bath of engine oil. Yes, you heard that correctly. I don’t know exactly why carmakers decided on this approach, but I believe it is all in the aim of keeping the engine as quiet as possible. However, Belt-in-Oil engines (B-I-O) have been around for a number of years now – though of late I’ve read about failure of engines with this form of timing belt more than I’ve ever read before. Mostly the toothed belt after time looses its teeth, which then sends debris around the whole engine, blocking all the oil paths and the sump oil strainer. Of course, servicing of the…

The latest Tool Promotion from Sealey runs from 1st January 2024 and is valid to 31st March 2024. www.sealey.co.uk Discover amazing new seasonal offers in the latest edition of the Tool Promotion from SEALEY, showcasing an extensive collection of over 1400 products and 60 new lines. This edition focuses on Vehicle Maintenance, Heaters, and Lighting but, as always, you will find discounts on selected products across all their ranges, ensuring you find the perfect deal inside! Innovative vehicle maintenance solutions: Innovative additions have been added to their vehicle service range, like the AK527 Bumping Mallet, designed with a hex head shape for evenly distributed force, and the AK528 Dashboard Protection Set, perfect for use during windscreen removal. SEALEY has also launched the AK9991 Digital Inclinometer with laser line for measuring…

► The aftermarket’s leading training provider, LKQ Academy is offering 25% off a range of courses this month giving garages a head start on upskilling in 2024. The standout course included in this offer is the IMI level 2/3 Hybrid and EV training. With 72% of techs yet to be trained, this is a must have. LKQ Academy offers more than 80 different courses, covering everything from technical skills to business management, and innovative courses like “technical for non-technical staff” – designed to help front-of-house team members grow their knowledge and deepen trust with customers, and included in the January sale. Training is delivered across more than 25 UK sites, including brand new LKQ training centres in Glasgow and Manchester, with two more state-of-the-art centres due to open in the…

I have probably mentioned before, but the smell and feel of diesel is not one of my favourite things. Changing the diesel filter on some vehicles can be a messy business. The fuel filter on a wide range of VAG vehicles such as this 2009 Audi A3 1.9 TDI is, though, a much easier job than many, and the bonus is that the bleeding out of the filter is simple and normally goes without any problems. Having said that I did once have a filter housing top that refused to seal, and I have also come across them with the securing screws damaged. The process on this Audi was painless and once the old filter had been removed and the housing cleaned out, the new filter and seal were fitted.…

The parking brake on this 2010 BMW 320d had been making a few strange noises for a little while now, but the owner was not too disturbed all the time it did hold the motor on a hill. In theory the parking brake shoes on any vehicle that has a separate parking brake, should last a very long time – they should not be used to stop the vehicle but only to secure it when stationary. But some drivers do have a habit of pulling the handbrake up while still moving – and this owner from the condition of the parking brake shoes was possibly one of these drivers. The parking brake had now deteriorated. Not only was it making a few more noises, but it was also not to…

A constant light rattling sound could be heard when driving this 2017 Ford Focus RS, and it was certainly rattling the owner’s cage. Although only a very light noise, this was grating on the owners’ nerves and he wanted it gone. My first thoughts were that this was going to be the antiroll bar link, but after hearing the noise, it had the tinny elements of an exhaust shield. The source of the sound turned out to be neither of these things but was in fact a light rattle coming from the front brake disc backplate. This one took a little searching to find, but once located a light tap on the edge of the brake backplate confirmed the issue. Removing the brake disc, I discovered that the securing bolts…

Please send your letters either by writing or sending an email... E-MAIL to: martyn.knowles@ kelsey.co.uk WRITE to: Martyn Knowles, Car Mechanics, Kelsey Media, The Granary, Downs Court, Yalding Hill, Yalding, Kent ME18 6AL. Please include a postal address with letters submitted by email. I’ve been reading the articles on ‘Long Time Readers’ with great interest and thought the attached photograph might give you a laugh. Free gifts on car magazines used to be a regular thing back in the day. My collection of ‘smiley’ mugs are long gone but the ice scraper still works even though I’ve had it since 1982! I’m retired now but still carry out the odd oil change and disc/ pad renewal – so I really enjoy the Service Bay section. Keep up the good work.…

► My son lives in a rural Australian community about 30 miles north of Melbourne and has a Subaru Forester petrol 2/4WD about 10 years old. He has had some issues with slight shimmy from the brakes but not easily identifiable as to cause. A full set of discs and pads were ordered up and I prepared for the struggle of removal from experience of UK cars. The first axle took two hours once I had the layout of fixings, etc. The remaining three were then done in 1.5 hours and cured the problem. Very little rust to sieze anything, just dust to brush off. The next job was to fit a towbar – kit duly ordered and it came with three fastening, for the towball and new exhaust hanger…

► After reading your ‘Top 30 car accessories from the past’, one accessory I fitted to my 1990 Fiat 127 GT was a windscreen washer fluid heater. You cut out a section of the hose leading to the heater matrix and put in a metal pipe. The pipe had a plastic reservoir around it and connections for the pipes from the washer pump and to the washer jets. The hot water going to the heater warmed the fluid. It did work. On a cold day the washer fluid would steam. Some high-end cars have heater elements in the washer reservoirs but I haven’t seen this accessory since I bought one. John Fisher…

► I forgot to renew my VED (Road Tax) on the 1st of the month so, to do it as quick as possible, I went online and paid through the DVLA website. I’d never done it this way before. Always went into my local sub-Post Office. It went through with no problems with credit card transaction though I did have to put in contact details including my mobile phone. Three days later, I get a text message – DVLA: As part of our routine check, we need to verify your driver’s licence record. Act on: my-dvla. national-uk.com. Needless to say I won’t be clicking on that link! Also, my car insurance is due. I got the renewal quote in the post and nearly had a heart attack – up from…

2021 MG ZS 1.0 T-GDI THANKS TO AES York Ltd 01904 780149 autoelectricsyork.co.uk Overall difficulty rating Underbonnet layout We admittedly had reservations about servicing the Chinese-manufactured SUV-styled ZS from MG Motor UK. Why? Well at the time of writing, Autodata had no technical information on it, so whilst we could find out what oils to use from various suppliers, we initially had no information on the torque settings for the sump drain plug, for example, and no idea about the recommended minimum thickness of the brake discs. Furthermore, the major motor factors didn’t stock or had a very limited stock of serviceable items for a vehicle that first appeared in 2017. Luckily, dealerships for MG Motor UK do stock parts, but they are typically more expensive than expected – a…

Q My question is around my torque wrenches. I have a few: Norbar TTi200 40-200Nm ½in-drive 30-150lbf-ft. TTi250 50-250Nm ½in-drive 40-185lbf-ft. Halfords 8-60Nm 3/8in-drive 6-44lbf-ft. 40-200Nm ½in-drive 30-150lbf-ft 60-330Nm ½in-drive 45-243lbf-ft. Teng 140-700Nm ¾in-drive. Also, I have just bought a Sealey ½indrive digital wrench to try out a digital rather than the click-stop drive. The question is that given I use them infrequently (once or twice a year maybe) and always wind them back on the spring should they be recalibrated? The reason I ask is that I’ve investigated getting them recalibrated locally and it’s £40 (plus VAT) which is probably quite reasonable but obviously tots up to a fair amount for all. Your opinion would be greatly received. Arnold Holmes A The official recommendation is every 12 months or…

Q I have a 14-reg Volvo D2 with the V40 1.6 D2 engine type and 42,000 miles. As time goes on I will need new brake pads on all four wheels, but do I require a piston rewind tool for this or can it be done with a G-clamp? Also, how do I reset the service indicator light after I perform the next service? WJ Gatt A The front caliper pistons can be pushed back gently using a G-clamp, but the rear pistons will need to be wound in using a rewind tool – these are available for around £30. If your vehicle is fitted with diagnostics for oil level/quality, then the service light can only be reset using diagnostic equipment. The Foxwell NT414 Pro All Makes 4-System Scan Tool…

Q I have a 2016 Volvo V40 Cross-Country diesel. I am very pleased with this motor and is the first Volvo I have ever had, but the ride is on the firm side. I have done some 35,000 miles in it, but it is still harsh on country roads – is it possible to get a softer ride? Any ideas please, if it means swapping suspension legs and shockers, what sort of cost would this involve? TMParr A You have the Cross-Country version of the V40 and this with its slightly higher road height was built with a firmer chassis configuration than the standard V40. The manufactures do design the vehicle to be stable on the road and part of that design does mean that the suspension will be firm…

Q I own a 1989 Volvo 240 GLT which has covered 77,000 miles and now has become very low at the rear end. Could you please advise me what heavy-duty springs I require to get it higher at the rear? I don’t really want to purchase the standard coil springs because when I purchased the Volvo with 6000 miles on the clock it always looked on the low side. If you can advise me could you give me the technical specifications for the coil springs and where I may purchase them from? Would the estate version solve the problem? D Kentish A There are a number of springs listed for your Volvo and the three Volvo part numbers are 1206750, 271476, 1212231. Unfortunately, due to the age of your Volvo…

Q The rear side lights on my 2011 Citroën Berlingo van 1.6 HDi 75 are doing some strange things. The left-hand side flashes constantly until I either, open the driver’s door or turn on the interior light in the cabin. The rear right side light randomly comes on when the van is locked up. Popping my voltmeter on the live wire for either of the bulbs when playing up results in a reading of around 8V. With my limited knowledge I checked around the BSI and surrounding area and could not see any signs of water ingress. The only two earth points I could find are in the engine bay, either side by front lights. These were wire brushed, and all ring connectors sanded clean. Still no joy. I’ve tried…

Q The RAV4 which you have helped me with in the past has now ceased to be (or at least it will shortly) having failed us on a mountain road in Wales. Although the broken propshaft would clearly have been replaceable, the bodywork was so poor I decided not to spend more money and cut our losses. After very little searching (I know, probably not the best way to do things), we bought a 2015 Dacia Duster 1.5 dCi (K9K 856 engine) with 78K on the clock, basically on the grounds of it having very clean bodywork. Although the seller assured us (without paperwork) that the timing belt had been changed by the previous owner at around 60K, I removed the suspension mount and checked for myself – only to…

Q I need help with a bamboozling problem with my 1999 Peugeot 406 Coupe V6. I’ve fitted a new clutch – but it does not work. It’s a pulling clutch – my problem is getting the clutch releaser to locate in the clutch cover plate. I used a long hook to locate around the clutch actuating arm and pulled back sharply on it, there was a distinctive click, which I took to be the snap ring in the releaser locating in the clutch cover. Unfortunately, that turned out not to be. The clutch pedal had no feel and wouldn’t return at all – despite multiple bleeding attempts. I found that the clutch slave cylinder didn’t have enough travel to push the clutch actuating arm. I removed the gearbox again; the…

Q I have a 2005 Peugeot 307 1.6 which has 99,000 miles on the clock. I purchased it from the main dealers in 2010 with just 28,000 miles. I am a self-employed window cleaner, and I do a lot of short journeys, I probably stop/start the vehicle on average around fifteen times a day. I have recently had new spark plugs fitted, what has suddenly started happening is that in the last month it’s refused to start, the engine turns over (the battery is well charged). So, after the second turn of the key I call out the RAC, then after 15-30 minutes, I turn the key again and would you believe it, it starts first time, as it always has done over the years I have had it. This…

Q A friend’s 2006 Renault Megane diesel has been showing an overheating warning from time to time. They put it into a garage for checking and were told they could find nothing wrong with it. Which is reassuring if they’ve done their job properly. My friend asked if I could do a coolant change. I said this was unlikely to cure an overheating issue, but they said they wanted it done anyway, as a precaution. I agreed in principle and did some research and found out that Renault put a special coolant in their cars that doesn’t like being mixed with other fluid. Can you comment on this? These special types are usually expensive and I would need to drain and flush the system thoroughly to get all remaining Renault…

Q I have owned my 2006 Renault Trafic SL29 1.9 dCi from January 2011 and it has now covered 225,000 miles. During my ownership, it has had an oil and filter change every six months regardless of mileage (I do about 10,000-12,000 miles per year) and has received a new air and fuel filter and a bottle of fuel system cleaner every 12 months. Prior to me, it was owned by the AA, so it has a very good service history. About nine months ago, I noticed that when the engine was hot – say, after doing a 20-minute drive or more – it would take two or three times more cranking before the engine would start. But from cold after being left for several hours or overnight, it always…

FORD C-MAX Q I have a problem with a 2004 Ford C-MAX 1.8 petrol. The problem we have is an intermittent problem. You can start the engine with no foot on the accelerator and it will rev up to 5500-6000rpm on its own and won’t stop – so you have to turn it off. Turn it back on and its fine but doesn’t do it all the time and the temperature make no difference. There are no fault codes so I have changed the throttle body for a second-hand one in case the potentiometer was faulty, but this has made no difference. There are no air leaks. Any ideas would be good to point me in right direction. Mark Deane A Having ruled out the possibility of any air leaks,…

Q You recently advised me on our 2016 Nissan Note 1.2 petrol with a Lambda fault which failed the MOT on the emissions. This was resolved as a misfire, cured with new plugs/coils, and manifold plus throttle body gaskets. I’m sorry to say I’m looking for advice so soon again. The Nissan has done 250 miles since, and now has the EML lit with fault code P0137 (O2 sensor bank 1 sensor 2). The engine has had a petrol smell on cold starting after the previous work, so I checked the engine bay for anything obvious that I’d maybe not tightened. The only possible reason was the jubilee clip on the throttle body rubber pipework which I tightened. I should also mention the code came on shortly after running over…

Q My friend has a 2007 Nissan Micra convertible which has been off the road for a few weeks now because the local garage, who is also the Nissan agent, is at a loss for any repair. Seemingly the BCM (Body Control Module) has failed, and no one can find a replacement, or knows of anyone who can repair or provide an exchange unit. Can you help? Allan Turner A There are a few companies who should be able to provide a repair service for the BCM. As you have written in, I suspect you may not have internet access and so I will list the companies and the telephone numbers for you. The companies listed in alphabetical order to try are: Actronics 01206 849920 Autotronics 0116 276 7054 ECU…

It’s almost a year since I had the bodywork done on my green 1994 BMW Compact (report CM May 2023) that involved painting the complete nearside plus the bonnet and both bumpers. But I was aware that the rear sills were looking decidedly flaky. They’d been patched up before a few times and it was when I was probing underneath that my screwdriver went straight through on both sides. Whoops. Another winter would not do it any good at all, so I got it into the workshop and started cutting the rot out. That resulted in a big hole both sides but to be fair it wasn’t as bad as it could have been. The vertical sill sections are still very good, and both of the actual jacking point structures…

This listing is published every THREE months and will next appear in our May 2024 issue. We welcome further nominations (from satisfied customers only please, no self-nominations) of businesses to be included, so that we can make this listing as useful as possible to readers throughout Britain and Ireland. Please write to: Car Mechanics Good Garage Guide, Kelsey Media, The Granary, Yalding Hill, Yalding, Kent ME18 6AL. Or email: martyn.knowles@kelsey.co.uk AVON Lockleaze Service Station, Lockleaze Road, Bristol BS7 9RU. BERKSHIRE Mike Farina Auto Services, 21 Sedgewell Road, Sonning Common, nr Reading, Berks RG4 9TA. Tel: 0118 972 4036. Servicing, repairs. BUCKINGHAMSHIRE Stokenchurch Service Centre, Wycombe Rd, Stokenchurch, Bucks HP14 3RR. Tel: 01494 483355. Servicing, repairs, tuning, MOTs, welding, exhausts, batteries. MD Autocare, 54/55 Rabans Close, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP19 8RS. www.md-autocare.co.uk…