Michael McAleeranswers your questions
From JM:
Perhaps you could suggest a good small off-roader for a country housewife. I'm not looking for a big SUV, just something that's easy to park, but can handle some of the worst roads and lanes in Ireland. I'd be looking for something in the €13,000 to €16,000 price bracket.
It may seem a strange recommendation, but why not take a look at the Fiat Panda 4x4? It's a regular small car, but it equips itself well on the rough and tumble. I wouldn't head across the Bog of Allen in one, but it holds up well in tests on bumpy roads.
I've spotted a 1.2-litre version with top-level specification and 250km on the clock for €11,500, and there should be other good bargains out there.
If you want something more rugged, try an older version Toyota Rav4 or the Suzuki Jimny. Another option would be the short-wheelbase Suzuki Vitara. They're a bit more expensive, but will be capable for the rugged roads you're likely to encounter.
From OP:
Why don't dealers want to deal in cash any more? My wife and I recently visited a dealer who offered us €3,000 on our Ford Fiesta, with a net price of €14,500 on a new Corsa. However, when we came back, having opted to sell the car privately, the discount we were getting on top of the trade-in price had disappeared.
Dealers aren't averse to cash deals, but it depends on their circumstances. Many dealers make relatively small margins on new cars, but turn used cars over for more profit. If they have a forecourt full of used cars then they'll be willing to take the cash deal, but it's hard for customers to judge what the cashflow situation is with dealers just by looking at what's on sale.
You should shop around other Opel dealers and see what offers you will get for a cash deal. In many instances the dealer mixes his final discount between giving you a price on the car, and discounting the new one. Straight discounts on a popular car like the Corsa are not going to be too large - if there is any at all - and he was just sweetening the deal by taking some of the trade-in value and using it to take down the cost of the car.
From AB:
My daughter turns 17 this summer, and I was hoping that she could apply for the driving test. When she was child, she was involved in a serious accident that has left her with limited lift in her shoulder. This could limit her ability to turn the steering wheel quickly, and I was wondering if that could have an impact on passing the test. I don't want to get her hopes up only to have them dashed later on.
The limited mobility in her shoulder should not hinder her passing the test or getting behind the wheel of a car. You could start by sourcing some good advice from Assist Ireland (www.assistireland.ie), which may be able to recommend some simple modifications to the car's steering that can be carried out.
As for the test, it is important to fill in the relevant section of the driving test application regarding what particular modifications are fitted to the vehicle. These will then be noted on your daughter's driving licence.
When the time comes, she will be tested, just as any other driver, on the Rules of the Road; her knowledge and skill to drive competently; and her ability to drive with proper regard for the safety and convenience of other road users.
From J Bridge:
A colleague warned me that I'm sitting too close to the airbag when driving. Is this a problem?
The general rule of thumb is to sit with your face about 12 inches away from the front airbag to prevent getting injured in the event of it deploying. It's also a good rule for general driving. The problem with sitting too close to the steering wheel means that if an emergency occurs, you may be too close to the controls to react properly.
From T Roche:
Where can I get a guide to the latest new car prices?
Several magazines and websites offer a list, but all are just the suggested list prices. Our own website, www.ireland.com/cars has information on new cars, and for a list of prices - albeit taken from March - you could also visit the Irish car industry website, www.simi.ie, where there is a link to recommended new car prices. They are not comprehensive and several prices are out of date but it's a useful starting point. When you have a selection of cars that interest you, then visit the various car company websites to find more specific and accurate price information.
Send your queries to Motors Helpdesk, The Irish Times, Tara St, Dublin 2, or e-mail motorshelp@irish-times.ie