HELPDESK:Answering all your motoring queries
From D Corcoran:
I’ve owned a 2004 six-speed Mazda RX-8 (Japanese import) for two years and have had trouble starting it from day one. I have been through everything that Mazda technicians suggested: I upgraded spark plugs; ignition coils; batteries and ignition leads. None of this solved my problem which leads me to think that it’s the starter motor. Why should RX-8 owners have to pay out €600 plus VAT for a new, upgraded starter motor when this shouldn’t even be a problem with the cars?
We have not come across this issue, so we contacted Mazda who told us there has been no recall of the RX-8 starter motors in Europe or Japan and there is not an issue with them. “We sent Mr Corcoran’s vehicle details to Mazda Europe last month to check if there was any recall orders and they confirmed there was no such issue. On a rotary engine, it is likely to take more cranking time (approx 3 seconds), especially when the engine is cold. We advise Mr Corcoran not to depress the accelerator pedal while trying to start the engine, especially in extremely cold weather. If the engine fails to start it may be flooded. He should consult the starting procedure in the owners’ manual.”
From W Buckley:
We’ve been shopping around for a new family car. I’m surprised at the sort of cars that now fit inside my budget. If I wait until April or May, will there be better deals on offer?
It’s very hard to predict what changes car firms will make in the future, but most of them have been gearing up their offers to capture the early sales volume. It’s far from certain that these deals will continue into the year. There is always the argument made that the sales staff may be more eager for a sale when the forecourt goes quiet, but at that stage dealerships will be closely watching their used car stocks and might not be willing to take on any car that will hang around their forecourt growing old. Used car stock management has become the hot topic in the industry. In summary, it’s a thankless task trying to second-guess motor industry pricing, but I suspect the best deals of the year are available right now.
From M Finnan:
I am interested in buying a Toyota Yaris 1.3. I’ve been quoted €11,500 for a 2008. Is that a decent offer?
It’s worth noting that all Yaris models built between November 2005 and September 2009 have been recalled as part of the checks on accelerator pedals that may stick. Be sure that the seller in question is aware of this issue and that when Toyota sends out notice to owners about facilities to get the cars checked – in the next 10 days – that it will be booked in.
In terms of pricing, provided the car has a full service history and the mileage is close to 10,000km, it seems reasonable.
