http://www.honestjohn.co.uk Honest John forum en-gb Wed, 29 Jan 2025 10:58:45 +0000 Copyright: (C) www.honestjohn.co.uk 5 hjforum1498573 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 10:34:24 +0000 In my days of running bangers when I was young, foolish and skint  (as opposed to old, foolish and skint ?) I used to habitually visit sc***yards for spares. It was amazing how much congealed black rubbery oil there was in sumps where the oil had never been changed - has some wonderful pictures of US cars where the oil has congealed to look like jelly pudding and will not flow out of the drain plug. You Tube - not available then as the Internet did not exist  nor did PCs!) Motoring discussion madf Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589&v=t&m=1498573 hjforum1498572 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:45:17 +0000 One to make you all laugh.  The Korando. Not a bad car but not a success.. I don't think there are many 21st-century cars that could be called Bad in 20th-century terms, but there will always be a spectrum, usually depending on the originator's personal preferences, or defined by intermittent surveys of failure rates. Motoring discussion Andrew-T Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498572 hjforum1498571 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:43:39 +0000 Check out how much the Insurance would cost for the NX...I had a knock in mine (car pulled forward and stopped on roundabout) first accident in 50 years of motoring. Renewal came through at just over £1900...Shopped around cheapest was around £1500. Although I had the accident insurance companies increased the Insurance on NX (and some other Lexus models) due to how easy the are to steal, something to do with access to the can bus  Motoring discussion London calling Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199598 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199598&v=t&m=1498571 hjforum1498570 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:27:39 +0000 I had an MG ZT-T with the KV6.  It had very flimsy cupholders but was otherwise a lovely thing.  The engine felt fine to me, but it did have a few quirks to keep you up at night.  As I recall, the ECU (or something else important) was in the plenum under the windscreen, which had a tiny drain that could easily clog up with leaves and drown the electrics  Most people modified the plenum with a little inspection hole that you could use to poke a skewer down and through the leaves. Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498570 hjforum1498569 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:25:31 +0000 I'd advise against buying any used car that has lived North of the border, likely to have suffered equivalent road salt abuse as twice the years where you live. Toyota/Lexus show no signs of deviating from their hybrids and joining other makers in self induced battery car bankruptcy, even if the UK stays on its self destruct path alongside the EU you'll still be able to buy a Lexus hybrid for another 5 and probably 10 years yet. 5 years is a lifetime in politics, one week under a Trump admin has seen repercussions across the world,  i wouldn't be betting the house on the net zero economic national suicide pact of both labour and recent tory regimes still being the case when the present mob get booted out at the next election. Motoring discussion gordonbennet Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199598 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199598&v=t&m=1498569 hjforum1498568 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 09:13:03 +0000 They were a little dull to drive, but I agree with the other comment that it was Audi's marketing that did for them.  I went and test drove one and, at the end of the drive, the salesman literally took the keys and walked away.  I think he assumed that, at 24, I didn't have the money to buy one.  I ordered a Mini the next day. an arrogant sales bod at a German marque's dealership, a rare find indeed... chap i knew was told to come back to the local BMW palace when he could afford one, had the shiny suited twerp checked the number plate on the modest car he visited in the value of the plate alone would buy a top spec 7 series, the chap owns half the village where he lived, he quite fancied a 3 series but bought another Ford and i don't blame him.     Motoring discussion gordonbennet Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498568 hjforum1498567 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:46:47 +0000 The Jaguar X type was launched with a big budget advert featuring Sting and the song “ An Englishman in New York” Perfect ! But in reality things didn’t get off to a good start with failures including gearboxes. Rust was a major problem with most cars rotting badly behind the plastic sill covers. I still however love the styling, wooden dash and cream leather seats. Most have disappeared into a heap of rust but it doesn’t stop me wanting one before they all disappear ! I wasn't a fan of the X Type saloon, I don't think the pseudo XJ styling workd on a car with that proportions, makes it look dumpy IMO. Didn't mind the estate though, I felt it was a more balanced looking thing. Not that rare yet though, 127 of them listed on Autotrader!   Motoring discussion badbusdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498567 hjforum1498566 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:41:09 +0000 fwiw, imo if you really want the TT & can justify it to yourself buy the TT now as oppportunities for that are probably more limited than for the NX, the NX will still be here next year albeit I can't suggest what discount you might be able to get. The NX is already over the £40k "luxury" threshold for VED so it's not as if that will be affected. Motoring discussion Heidfirst Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199598 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199598&v=t&m=1498566 hjforum1498565 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:35:20 +0000 I ask because there are 28 brand new ones (Korando's) listed on Autotrader. 11 of those are discounted, ranging from £650 to £3k off (presumably) list price. Mea Culpa. I had only searched for Manual gearbox Still £10.000 less than a Sportage or Cashcow.   https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-search?advertising-location=at_cars&make=KGM&model=Korando&postcode=ch71jt&sort=relevance&transmission=Manual&year-from=new Believe it or not I am aware that Ssangyong is now KGM.       Motoring discussion Orb>>. Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498565 hjforum1498564 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:31:01 +0000 Maybe if really neglected but the M47 had a pretty chunky chain which was probably as reliable as any timing chain equipped engine. The same couldn't be said for the N47 which came after it. Motoring discussion pd Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498564 hjforum1498563 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:28:04 +0000 These are known for weak chains. As others have suggested I suspect the chain has stretched throwing the timing out enough to trigger a MIL. The power steering sounds like it might need a new electric rack. It's probably worth doing to be honest as in other respects they're quite decent cars which can last. Motoring discussion pd Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199595 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199595&v=t&m=1498563 hjforum1498562 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:25:54 +0000 The Jaguar X type was launched with a big budget advert featuring Sting and the song “ An Englishman in New York” Perfect ! But in reality things didn’t get off to a good start with failures including gearboxes. Rust was a major problem with most cars rotting badly behind the plastic sill covers. I still however love the styling, wooden dash and cream leather seats. Most have disappeared into a heap of rust but it doesn’t stop me wanting one before they all disappear ! Motoring discussion Steveieb Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498562 hjforum1498561 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:25:49 +0000 Seems to me that the consensus is that a car doesn't have to be 'Good' to sell well, or vice versa. Presumably this shows a lot of it may be brand loyalty or perhaps clever adverts ? I doubt brand loyalty features much, brand desirability maybe. People want Audi's, BMW's, Merc's, and Range Rover's, doesn't really matter whether or not they are good cars, its the image that counts. Then you've also got the lazy or convenience buyers, who don't really care what they drive but don't want to travel any further than necessary for servicing or whatever. They will get something from whichever dealer is closest, regardless of whether the car is any good.  And you also have those who don't have much money to spend but must have a new car. It may no longer be the case that cheap cars were nasty cars (though actually there aren't really any cheap cars any more), but it used to be the case. I remember my Grandad trading in his Hillman Hunter for a brand new Lada Riva and him ending up really hating it and proclaiming that his old Hunter was a much better car!.  Motoring discussion badbusdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498561 hjforum1498560 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:14:28 +0000 Not sure if I’ve missed something here , but can’t see any reference to a faulty abs system on the mot failure details. “ Hi everyone, got a 2013 i10 4 years ago, failed MOT today with the below. My local service guy said it would cost about £800 to fix all the below (mainly timing belt & ABS),” Maybe the OP has got mixed up. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199595 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199595&v=t&m=1498560 hjforum1498559 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:09:12 +0000 It can't recall Rover 75 diesels ever lunching many timing chains. The diesel was a bit slow in early versions (but competitive with the class norm when launched) and was better once updated to I think about 130bhp. On the whole the diesel was the best and usually most reliable. They had a habit of thermostats failing and clutch slave cylinders were weak but they were pretty decent for the time. Well known problem with BMW’s 2.0 4cyl diesels, whether it be in a BM, Toyota or Rover 75. Neglect and abuse are often to blame. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498559 hjforum1498558 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:05:42 +0000 One to make you all laugh. The Korando. Not a bad car but not a success. There are only 6 brand new ones available in dealers  and some of them discounted. You are aware that Ssangyong is now KGM? I ask because there are 28 brand new ones (Korando's) listed on Autotrader. 11 of those are discounted, ranging from £650 to £3k off (presumably) list price.    Motoring discussion badbusdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498558 hjforum1498557 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:02:03 +0000 It can't recall Rover 75 diesels ever lunching many timing chains. The diesel was a bit slow in early versions (but competitive with the class norm when launched) and was better once updated to I think about 130bhp. On the whole the diesel was the best and usually most reliable. They had a habit of thermostats failing and clutch slave cylinders were weak but they were pretty decent for the time. Motoring discussion pd Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498557 hjforum1498556 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 07:42:26 +0000 Hi all, any advice on the following options would be greatly appreciated.  I currently have a Volvo XC60 B4 mild hybrid, just short of two years old. I like Volvos (this is my second) but I have concerns about their long term reliability, so I was planning on changing it next year before the warranty expires. I have retired now and don’t want to be changing cars every three years, so I was thinking about switching to a Lexus NX and taking advantage of the long warranty.  I’ve also got an itch for a small roadster and have my eye on a 2021 Audi TT 2.0 TFSI 45 sport roadster, 30,000 miles, £24K from a dealership in Dundee.  i have been keeping an eye on the price of Lexus NX’s and have an offer from the carwow platform of 5.9% off a top-spec Takumi model, which seems very reasonable ( my partner struggled to get anything at all off her LBX). With my 24K earmarked for the roadster and the value of my Volvo I have enough to buy the Lexus.  There has been several comments in the back room about it being last orders for ICE powered cars and my concern would be, if I left it until next year, would the mandated EV sales figures make the Lexus considerably more expensive or even unavailable? And of course the value of my Volvo would be less. I am tempted to get the Lexus and shelve the roadster aspirations until next year, but the TT looks to be in great condition and is on the sensible (or least ridiculous if you prefer) 18 inch wheels and has many extras. Then again it’s in Dundee and I’m in Nottinghamshire so I would be buying unseen. I have got decision paralysis so any advice is welcome.  Thanks in anticipation.  Motoring discussion Robert J. Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199598 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199598&v=t&m=1498556 hjforum1498555 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 06:48:30 +0000 One to make you all laugh. The Korando. Not a bad car but not a success. There are only 6 brand new ones available in dealers  and some of them discounted. Motoring discussion Orb>>. Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498555 hjforum1498554 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 01:47:57 +0000 Not sure if I’ve missed something here , but can’t see any reference to a faulty abs system on the mot failure details. "Electronic power steering warning lamp indicates a system malfunction" ? Later posters drew some conclusions. Nope. No apparent basis for such conclusion. I just repeated what the OP wrote. I dunno why he wrote it, but I'd guess he;d been talking to a mechanic, which I generally avoid if possible. Incidentally, Mystery Money Light  stuff belongs in Technical rather than Discussion.You cant argue with a Mystery Money Light Motoring discussion edlithgow Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199595 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199595&v=t&m=1498554 hjforum1498553 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 01:36:44 +0000 Suzuki Carry I had a similar demountable Romahome on a (much older, of course) Honda  Acty TN550 that I lived in in London for a while. Compact and bijou, like the Japanese girl in the video but unlike me. The body extended down over the back in a galley bit with a sink one side, cooker the other, where even I got standing headroom, so very space efficient. No woodstove though.. Perhaps my best wehicle Motoring discussion edlithgow Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199597 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199597&v=t&m=1498553 hjforum1498552 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 01:04:06 +0000 And/or in the sump, You COULD just change the filter, but quite a lot of debris gets through a standard filter The description "you top it up near the mark ococasionally" of course d oesn't really apply in this case. Its been run very low, which might have put wear metals from cams and bearing material into the oil, which was probably quite dirty (and thus a bit abrasive). in the first place It might be OK though. TBH being a cheapskate I might be a bit conflicted about dumping 2L of new oil, Though I'd probably still do it, I might do a blotter spot test on the oil first, to get an idea of the amount of debris in the oil (see pictures in BITOG thread linked above). I have scanned a series of  these (showing thermal breakdown of vegetable oil as a model) digitally using software for TLC chromatograms, and it looked like it would allow a numerical comparison of the debris levels between oil samples, though I havn;t done that, and it wouldnt provide actual quantition. Motoring discussion edlithgow Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589&v=t&m=1498552 hjforum1498551 Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:17:17 +0000   A good car in need of a good engine. You hurriedly upsized K series wasn't man enough in 1800 form and had a habit of eating head gaskets, and while the KV6’s were smooth, they lacked torque, had an i****ic three timing belt arrangement that was very costly to replace and thus ignored. The diesels were gutless and grumbly plus they’d lunch their timing chain if neglected. If only they’d built the 600/800 replacement based on the Honda Accord instead of a cobbled together parts bin special. Yes the early diesels with the 114 BHP engines were sluggish but the later versions with the 129 BHP engine also had 221 lb/ft of torque which made them fairly quick. Another of my company cars for 7 months when I changed jobs, and I quite liked it, although it was under-geared at motorway speeds, having 5 gears and was pulling almost 3000 RPM at 85. The 1.8 petrol really was sluggish and even more low geared. The sweet spot was the 2.0 V6, I had an early one on extended test drive, but discounted it when a gentle cross country journey gave just 30 MPG, where my A6 1.8T would have easily done 36+ Motoring discussion 72 dudes Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498551 hjforum1498550 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 23:31:11 +0000 I also remember the old parts man in a BL dealer many years ago who almost never looked at the catalogue. He used to listen and then get the parts.   I have a friend who had (er still has!) an old 1923 Morris and was asking a guy at a really old BL dealer about suitable bearing to get machined to fit the rear axle - Old guy said hang on a sec, and brought out a few original fit spares from decades ago and said at least he won't have to count them again on the next stock take. The slight issue was what to charge as the cost price was from many moons ago!! Needless to say he bought the entire stock of parts for the Morris.         Motoring discussion Big John Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199590 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199590&v=t&m=1498550 hjforum1498549 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 23:30:08 +0000 Seems to me that the consensus is that a car doesn't have to be 'Good' to sell well, or vice versa.  Presumably this shows a lot of it may be brand loyalty or perhaps clever adverts ? Motoring discussion Andrew-T Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498549 hjforum1498548 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 23:20:59 +0000 It seems like a waste to immediately switch the oil after filling it up but I've never claimed to be smart  If the engine loses oil steadily and you top it up near the mark occasionally, it follows that most of the oil is fairly fresh.  But you still need to remember what might be collecting in the filter ! Motoring discussion Andrew-T Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589&v=t&m=1498548 hjforum1498547 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 23:16:50 +0000 I had a Mazda Xedos 9 for a while.  That was an incredibly good car but never sold well.  They marketed it as a Merc/BMW/Jag alternative but the interior was miles off.  If it had been a Mondeo/Vectra challenger it might have done well (Mazda 6 well, not market dominance). Bad cars that sell well; the aforementioned Nissan Joke and Qashqai, pretty much every Ford From the 1980s to 1990s, the original Suzuki Vitara, all Jaguars since the 70s.  Maybe a bit harsh on the 70s and 80s British built cars, but I can still feel the vinyl burns on my legs from summer in shorts.  I was amazed when I drove a Citroen C3 Aircross a couple of years ago.  Absolute garbage. Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498547 hjforum1498546 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 23:05:37 +0000 I will nominate the Calibra. Very attractive styling but underneath just a Cavalier so not great through the twisties.   Weren’t sporty to drive at all, but were hugely practical for a coupe. Think of it as a sporty looking Cavalier and it makes sense. An easy sale unless it was a base model 8v on steels. A good car, but not a great one in my opinion. My dad had a 4wd turbo as a company car (based on my advice as a 16 year old!).  It wasn't amazing and not at all refined, but it was b***** quick  Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498546 hjforum1498545 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 23:03:00 +0000 Its mentioned on the other thread, but good car which flopped goes to the A2 - a car I have just been parked next to.  For a car which will be 20 years old this year even on a dull damp day it looked fresh as a daisy. I had one a 1.4TDi and its the one car I'd have again.  It was said it was too expensive, but the A class (which would flip over) sold far more which suggests it was an Audi marketing problem. They were a little dull to drive, but I agree with the other comment that it was Audi's marketing that did for them.  I went and test drove one and, at the end of the drive, the salesman literally took the keys and walked away.  I think he assumed that, at 24, I didn't have the money to buy one.  I ordered a Mini the next day. Motoring discussion Adampr Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498545 hjforum1498544 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:19:29 +0000 I will nominate the Calibra. Very attractive styling but underneath just a Cavalier so not great through the twisties. Weren’t sporty to drive at all, but were hugely practical for a coupe. Think of it as a sporty looking Cavalier and it makes sense. An easy sale unless it was a base model 8v on steels. A good car, but not a great one in my opinion. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498544 hjforum1498543 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:17:10 +0000 The Rover 75 was launched to a fanfare , applauding its British heritage and built with the backing of BMW engineering expertise . Even the BMW chairman promoted the launch as the last ditch attempt to save the company. They even fitted a diesel engine from BMW which was unfortunately a little underpowered . An estate followed to help flagging sales but to no effect. Massively supported by BMW the car wasn’t a sales success , buyers preferring either a BMW, Audi or Lexus , and Rover went into receivership. Owners found them selves with cars that they had paid top dollar for but overnight they were stuck with, unless they were prepared to accept a huge loss . A good car in need of a good engine. You hurriedly upsized K series wasn't man enough in 1800 form and had a habit of eating head gaskets, and while the KV6’s were smooth, they lacked torque, had an i****ic three timing belt arrangement that was very costly to replace and thus ignored. The diesels were gutless and grumbly plus they’d lunch their timing chain if neglected. If only they’d built the 600/800 replacement based on the Honda Accord instead of a cobbled together parts bin special. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498543 hjforum1498542 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:03:14 +0000 Nice to hear positive things about a fast fit chain for a change. Motoring discussion alan1302 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199592 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199592&v=t&m=1498542 hjforum1498541 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 21:34:52 +0000 I can't work out which truck it is based on, but I expect BBD will enjoy this. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dsP3qwd2s8 Motoring discussion John Boy Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199597 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199597&v=t&m=1498541 hjforum1498540 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 21:28:50 +0000 Quick update. I checked the oil earlier and the stick was DRY. No oil on my fingers when I touched it. Added two litres and it seems all right for now. I understand the importance of oil changes but being honest I'm a toxic procrastinator and I work 8-12 hours per day generally so i can't guarantee I'll get a full change done this week. If I do I'll film it and upload it for anyone interested.    Ps. It seems like a waste to immediately switch the oil after filling it up but I've never claimed to be smart  Motoring discussion OceanMan Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589&v=t&m=1498540 hjforum1498539 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 21:03:13 +0000 With respect John, not sure anyone could consider a TR7 as being a clever car!. Pop-up headlights (they've never failed);   cantilevered windscreen wiper on driver's side;    no scuttle shake because well engineered sills;   low slung 'slant4' engine affording unusually low bonnet (c.f. Mercedes 300SL 'gullwing');   ventilation able to deliver cool air to face with simultaneous hot air to cabin;   rear plastic window unzips from hood affording excellent rear view (and more draught-free ventilation);   ability to survive long enough to become a cheap to run 'historic vehicle'.   Was it a good one?, obviously you have direct experience (and possibly a little biased?), . Mine was...and still is     (of course I am;-) Pop up headlights had been on the go for at least a decade before the TR7 appeared John. And while yours may never have failed, they do fail, even cars with manual mechanisms can fail due to sticking rods or cables. But the reason they are no longer used is because they severely compromise aero when they are up and are also not great if you hit a pedestrian. So cool?, yes. Clever?, no. You say "well engineered", I'd say deep. That isn't really being clever, there is a choice of either having deep sills with shallow doors (and a more rigid structure) or slim sills and deeper doors (which would give easier access but compromise the structural rigidity). Sensibly, for a sports car, Triumph chose the former. Is the bonnet that low?, its been a while since I've studied a TR7 in the flesh, but the bonnet doesn't look that low in pictures. In fact the bonnet line of the Ferarri 365 GT4 (launched in 1972) looks lower (despite having a 4.4 litre V12 under there) I'm not sure that needing to remove the rear window to get a good view is clever(?), but as a van driver and ex bus driver I don't actually need a rear window to see what is going on behind me ;-)   Motoring discussion badbusdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498539 hjforum1498538 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 20:08:50 +0000 We also thought of a Peugeot 1007 - with the electric sliding doors.  But the (new) demo model had a flat battery so the doors would not open.  Utter dealer incompetence. Apparently they had a lot of problems with those sliding doors. I drove one as a courtesy car and liked it's utlitarian nature, comfort and quirky looks. The problems were not due the doors being of the sliding variety, they were due to Peugeot deciding to make them electric. Not only does that result in the doors being unusable with a flat battery, it contradicts any notion of a utilitarian nature. It also made the 1007 much heavier than a car that small should have been (not far off 300kg more than the Suzuki Ignis we had!). That in turn made it both thirstier than it should have been and compromised the ride/handling. Also absolutely amazing that while Peugeot (and Citroen) managed to integrate the handles for the sliding rear doors of the Partner (and Berlingo) well, they couldn't manage the same for the 1007, resulting in that awful looking handle arrangement.    Motoring discussion badbusdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498538 hjforum1498537 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 19:58:27 +0000 The Rover 75 was launched to a fanfare , applauding its British heritage and built with the backing of BMW engineering expertise . Even the BMW chairman promoted the launch as the last ditch attempt to save the company. They even fitted a diesel engine from BMW which was unfortunately a little underpowered . An estate followed to help flagging sales but to no effect. Massively supported by BMW the car wasn’t a sales success , buyers preferring either a BMW, Audi or Lexus , and Rover went into receivership. Owners found them selves with cars that they had paid top dollar for but overnight they were stuck with, unless they were prepared to accept a huge loss . Motoring discussion Steveieb Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498537 hjforum1498536 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 19:50:22 +0000 Apparently they had a lot of problems with those sliding doors. I drove one as a courtesy car and liked it's utlitarian nature, comfort and quirky looks. They certainly did have issues, seen them when current in my previous work with the interiors fully stripped out and a head scratching tech trying to sort out the wiring. They were popular with us transporter drivers, due to their height they qualified as 1.5 cars on our pay scale..:-) Motoring discussion gordonbennet Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498536 hjforum1498535 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 19:41:26 +0000 With respect John, not sure anyone could consider a TR7 as being a clever car!.    ventilation able to deliver cool air to face with simultaneous hot air to cabin; There were plenty of cars that could achieve that at the time. Sadly not many now, a totally backward step. Motoring discussion corax Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498535 hjforum1498534 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 19:35:54 +0000 We also thought of a Peugeot 1007 - with the electric sliding doors.  But the (new) demo model had a flat battery so the doors would not open.  Utter dealer incompetence. Apparently they had a lot of problems with those sliding doors. I drove one as a courtesy car and liked it's utlitarian nature, comfort and quirky looks. Motoring discussion corax Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498534 hjforum1498533 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 18:39:50 +0000 I will nominate the Calibra. Very attractive styling but underneath just a Cavalier so not great through the twisties. Motoring discussion Xileno Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498533 hjforum1498531 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:37:08 +0000 The Peugeot 205 was brilliant but the handling of the diesel was boat like (to me at least) Weird how perceptions vary. I had a 1.7 two door 205 in poverty spec (GRD?). Bought as a station hack but occasionally backed up the family BX estate.  Obvs as a diesel it wasn't going to get any 0-60 records but 30-50 and 50-70 were not too bad.  My memory of it is that it handled nearly as well as I'd have expected the GTi to do. One bonfire night we ended up with both our cars at Mrs B's rellies due to my work and late finish; she went early with the kids.  Coming home off the M40 at Banbury and following the old line of the B4525 through to the A5 it was like a sports car hacking round the bends and using throttle to the full exiting them.  Mrs B was behind me leaving the M/way but I was home a good ten minutes sooner.                Motoring discussion Bromptonaut Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498531 hjforum1498530 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:36:20 +0000 Protected NCB - you keep the %age BUT invariably the Premium jumps Of course it does, why else would they push you to pay for it?   Motoring discussion bathtub tom Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199594 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199594&v=t&m=1498530 hjforum1498529 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:35:20 +0000 My dad had a K reg Ford Escort 1.4 LX as his last company car before early retirement.  Other than it had electric front windows and a manual tilt-turn sunroof (all the previous ones he'd had every 2-4 years hadn't), the car was awful. Dangerously slow, too, with only 75bhp on tap if I recall correctly. My mid 90s 1L Micra was quicker off the mark. I was going to say 'what was the point of the real spoiler on that Escort, but then my Micra 1L 'S' had one too... His firm sold it to him at a big discount, but he soon PXed it for a brand new Fiesta LX 1.25 (Zetec engine), which was light years better as well as being about 3-4 sec to 60 quicker. Arrgh no i knew someone would remind me of the blasted lean burn 1.4 Escort, a more hateful gutless car ever my misfortune to lay eyes on, i didn't thankfully own one but Eurodollar had loads of them on rent and i shifted dozens of them. Hells own job just to get them up onto the transporter, something they share with that awful 3 cylinder Corsa favoured by BSM and later still by automated manual Fiat 500s which holds the notable crown of being completely incapable of pulling themselves up onto the top deck of a transporter, hence getting a run up and once managing to get the back wheels onto the deck when it would run out of steam then getting a colleague to lift the deck level while you sat there and continue driving/reversing on which is most disconcerting when you have such an incapable car and nothing stopping you rolling off the back again once clear of the skids bar the brakes and wondering if the thing would stall out at exactly the wrong moment. After a while those awful Escort 1.4s were defleeted (renters doubtless glad to see that day) and replaced by 1.8 engined Escorts which were hundreds of times better. Motoring discussion gordonbennet Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498529 hjforum1498528 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:31:42 +0000 Wife had an old Minx that drank oil. I used to collect the stuff colleagues drained out of their cars and use it for topping up. Then this new-fangled Duckhams Q20-50 stuff came along that I tried in my car. When I changed it, I used it to top up the Minx. the oil consumption started dropping until it only needed occasional top-ups. Motoring discussion bathtub tom Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199589&v=t&m=1498528 hjforum1498527 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:22:51 +0000 Yup, I've just had experience of trying to organise service with a chain of dealerships - call centre hell! Next time I'm going to pop in as the experience was fine in the dealership itself.   That's what I do with my multi-franchise Mazda dealership.  I'd previously emailed them about organising my service+MOT and heard nothing back, not even a phone call.  The problem is if I call them, the person on the other end of the phone isn't really very technically competent and thus I spend ages explaining the situation on that occasion. In the end, I just pop in when I'm in the town for other reasons to talk to them in person. A much more positive experience.  Shame I have to drive 13 miles each way to do so, although it does keep the battery topped up - just. Motoring discussion Engineer Andy Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199590 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199590&v=t&m=1498527 hjforum1498526 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:21:10 +0000 Nobody has mentioned the Vauxhall Sintra … think I’ll run now .   A terrible car that no one bought. The car and van hire company I worked for in the late 90s had one of these. I never drove it out on the road, but in terms of space and practicality it seemed OK.   Motoring discussion badbusdriver Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498526 hjforum1498525 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:17:10 +0000 Nobody has mentioned the Vauxhall Sintra … think I’ll run now . A terrible car that no one bought. Motoring discussion SLO76 Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498525 hjforum1498524 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:16:48 +0000 How do you find the Avon ZX7 tyres for wear (mileage) You may want to consult the user reviews on the Tyre Reviews website. https://www.tyrereviews.com/Tyre/Avon/ZX7.htm They have them for all manner of cars, so you might find a few that exactly match your situation.  Obviously some tyres work and wear better on certain makes and types of car than others.  I know some tyres perform very differently on RWD cars to FWD ones. As I recall, Avons generally tended to be of a softer compound, not so good at wear, reasonable on dry grip and noise/comfort.  Normally middle of the pack on price.  Probably not recommended for high mileage drivers. Motoring discussion Engineer Andy Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199587 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199587&v=t&m=1498524 hjforum1498523 Tue, 28 Jan 2025 17:14:55 +0000 With respect John, not sure anyone could consider a TR7 as being a clever car!. Pop-up headlights (they've never failed);   cantilevered windscreen wiper on driver's side;    no scuttle shake because well engineered sills;   low slung 'slant4' engine affording unusually low bonnet (c.f. Mercedes 300SL 'gullwing');   ventilation able to deliver cool air to face with simultaneous hot air to cabin;   rear plastic window unzips from hood affording excellent rear view (and more draught-free ventilation);   ability to survive long enough to become a cheap to run 'historic vehicle'.   Was it a good one?, obviously you have direct experience (and possibly a little biased?), . Mine was...and still is     (of course I am;-) My first new car as a 25 year old was a TR7 bought on a company assisted purchased scheme (which insisted on buy British) and through a pal who at the time was the finance director of a main dealer (good deal). It had all the nice to have gizmos, by the standards of the time was plenty fast enough. Bad points - complete rot box - sills bubbling at 2 years old.  Do I, 45 years on, still lust after another - absolutely not!!   Motoring discussion Terry W Motoring discussion http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596 http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=199596&v=t&m=1498523