Thief gets into my car which (accidentally left open 😔) he has some sort of device on him. Sits in the car, checks the usual places for stuff left laying around - and dropped an airline wet wipe, he puts the hazard lights on for some reason. Key is in a faraday case, but now worried he scanned some car frequency with it being left open. Should I be worried he will come back with an ability to take the car?

Surely everyone is after a cheap, reliable and nice daily for between £1000-£15000, do we really need to keep answering the same posts over and over again? 😅

Guy on the next street to me has this beast, absolutely huge.. never seen one in the UK before

can I borrow a car person for a minute? I need advice as I’ve just got the dreaded call from the garage and a laundry list of problems.

she’s a 2010 mazda2 and not an essential part of my job, mostly just trips/etc. I got her a year ago and we’ve done only 5k miles. already sunk a fair bit on some new tyres, rear suspension and a busted clutch slave cylinder.

the failiures are some headlight problems, 4 corroded brake pipes and some sill corrosion - it’s getting looked at again on monday to properly assess the severity of the sills, but I’ve been told to expect around £400-500 just to fix everything else, and he’ll update me on the sills on monday.

I’m just a bit overwhelmed, it feels like there are lots of options and I don’t know what the right thing to do is - if all in it’s £1k to fix then I’ll have spent near what I paid for it so far in repairs this year, and for the amount I use it that seems a bit crazy. WeBuyAnyCar website seems to value it at £700 but that’s before any talk of its problems.

I’m scared to sell it privately because I’m a small young woman who doesn’t know much about cars and I wouldn’t feel confident in that situation. I’m leaning towards fixing it because nobody in their right mind would buy it in this state, but I just feel wildly out of my depth.

I know nobody can tell me what to do, but can anybody offer any wisdom, advice, similar situations, or anything? thank you

edit: here are the results verbatim

Repair immediately (major defects):
Offside Rear Direction indicator incorrect colour (4.4.3 (a))
Nearside Headlamp lens seriously defective (4.1.1 (b) (ii))
Offside Headlamp lens seriously defective (4.1.1 (b) (ii))
Nearside Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect (4.1.2 (c))
Offside Headlamp aim projected beam image is obviously incorrect (4.1.2 (c))
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength sill (5.3.6 (a) (i))
Nearside Brake pipe excessively corroded front to rear at rear section (1.1.11 (c))
Offside Brake pipe excessively corroded front to rear at rear section (1.1.11 (c))
Nearside Rear Brake pipe excessively corroded (1.1.11 (c))
Offside Rear Brake pipe excessively corroded (1.1.11 (c))

Repair as soon as possible (minor defects):
Nearside Registration plate lamp inoperative in the case of multiple lamps or light sources (4.7.1 (b) (i))

Monitor and repair if necessary (advisories):
Offside Play in steering rack inner joint(s)

Recently bought a 2001 Ford Fiesta as a bit of a project or to learn a bit about spannering - not much of a background in it, so lots to learn. £750 Fiesta on marketplace, 1.3, 22000 miles (genuine!), interior is immaculate, but some bodywork issues (score on rear passenger side, some welding on a sill and wheel arch potentially). Original plan was to track it - engine swap, cage, brakes, exhaust, suspension parts etc with a lot of help from friends, but now I’ve sat in it, I’m not sure if I want to rip it all apart! Any advice would be great please!!

TLDR: £3611

After buying my first car in Nov 24, I did a breakdown of the costs after Year 1 which ended up being £2,647 (https://www.reddit.com/r/CarTalkUK/s/ooWSFhsDXQ).

So, how did I manage during year 2?

Insurance: £987. More than happy with a £400 decrease from the previous year after gaining my first NCD. For reference, I'm in my early 20's with one no-fault, no-claim incident recorded.

Fuel: £1557. I travelled 10 198 miles in the last year for an average price of 178.6p per litre of diesel and averaged 53.0mpg. This was a combo of more work travel and some fantastic trips with the gf across the country.

Last fill up was £129 at 202.9p per litre!

Maintenance: £870. The car required a full service (oil change and all filters), all brake pads and discs with new brakefluid, and a new battery this year. This was done by the local mobile mechanic who's always been top notch.

Miscellaneous: £157. Here's the stuff that didn't quite fit in with the others

Tax: £35

Mot: £50

Wipers: £35

Adblue: £37

Total: £3611. So around a grand more than the year previous due to more miles and more maintenance.If you've got any questions about the costs or life with the A6, give me a shout!

Cheers.

Sharing the below list I received from a customer service agent which shows what modifications are accepted and declined under the insurer Quotemehappy.

Quotemehappy Mods List:

Adapted For Disability ACCEPT

Additional Airbags Fitted ACCEPT

Additional Seating DECLINE

Additional Windows DECLINE

After-Market Exhaust System approved for road use ACCEPT

Air Conditioning ACCEPT

Air Filter ACCEPT

Alarms/Immobilisers/Tracking Devices ACCEPT

Add to vehicle security, not modifications.

Altered Pedal Configuration ACCEPT

Awning - Upgraded ACCEPT

Awning - Added ACCEPT

Badges Indicating Increased Performance ACCEPT

Biodegradable Fuel ACCEPT

Bleed / Relief Valve ACCEPT

Blueprinting DECLINE

Bluetooth Kit ACCEPT

Body Coloured Bumpers DECLINE

Body Kit DECLINE

Bonnet Bulge ACCEPT

Bored-out Engine DECLINE

Braided Brake Hoses ACCEPT

Bull Bars ACCEPT

Bumpers - Alloy DECLINE

Bumpers - Chrome DECLINE

Bumpers - Steel DECLINE

Cabriolet Conversion DECLINE

Camper Van Conversion DECLINE

Car Phones ACCEPT

Carbon Fibre Bonnet DECLINE

Carburettor Changed DECLINE

Catalytic Converter Removed ACCEPT

Ceramic Coating/PPF See Ceramic Coating/PPF page for more information

Changing to a Convertible DECLINE

Chassis Changes DECLINE

Chipping - Engine Management System Changes DECLINE

Chromed Engine DECLINE

Climate Control ACCEPT

Cooling Fan - Added ACCEPT

Cooling Fan - Upgrade ACCEPT

Cruise Control DECLINE

Dashboard Changes DECLINE

Dashcam ACCEPT

Debadged ACCEPT

Decals/Stickers ACCEPT

De-Handled ACCEPT

De-Locked ACCEPT

Door Poppers ACCEPT

Driving Lights ACCEPT

Dual Controls DECLINE

Dump Valve ACCEPT

EcoTek Valve ACCEPT

Electronic Ignition ACCEPT

Emergency Services Blue Light DECLINE

Engine Chip 00-10% inc BHP DECLINE

Engine Chip 11-25% inc BHP DECLINE

Engine Chip 26%+ inc BHP DECLINE

Engine Tuned DECLINE

Engraving - Custom DECLINE

Exhaust System Changes ACCEPT

Exhaust System Changes - Cosmetic ACCEPT

Exhaust System Changes - Cosmetic And Performance ACCEPT

Exhaust System Changes - Performance ACCEPT

External Racking DECLINE

Fibreglass Panels ACCEPT

Flared Wheel Arches ACCEPT

Flared Wings ACCEPT

Fog Lamps ACCEPT

Front Spoiler/Air Dam ACCEPT

Galvanised Chassis ACCEPT

Gearing Change ACCEPT

Graphics/Decals - Decoration/Non-Advertising DECLINE

Graphics-Customised Promotional/Advertising DECLINE

Hand Controls ACCEPT

High Level Brake Light ACCEPT

High Roof ACCEPT

Hoist ACCEPT

Indicators - Added ACCEPT

Indicators - Uprated ACCEPT

Induction Kit (Non-Turbo) DECLINE

Induction Kit (Turbo Vehicle) DECLINE

Infra Red Controls ACCEPT

Intercooler - Bigger ACCEPT

Intercooler - Front Mount DECLINE

Interior Changes DECLINE

Internal Racking DECLINE

Internal Shelving DECLINE

Lambo Style Door Conversion DECLINE

Larger Speakers ACCEPT

Light Cluster changed ACCEPT

Locking Wheel Nuts ACCEPT

LPG Conversion ACCEPT

Magnetic/Removable Signs ACCEPT

Manifold ACCEPT

Miscellaneous Engine Alterations DECLINE

Mudguards ACCEPT

Murals DECLINE

Neon Lights DECLINE

Nitrous Oxide Kit Fitted DECLINE

Non-standard Engine DECLINE

Non-standard Re-spray DECLINE

Oil Pressure Gauge - Added ACCEPT

Oil Pressure Gauge - Upgrade ACCEPT

Other DECLINE

Overdrive ACCEPT

Paint Work - Non Standard DECLINE

Paint Work - Race Replica DECLINE

Painted Signs (Greater than 25% of side and door) DECLINE

Painted Signs (Under 25% of side and door) DECLINE

Parking Sensors ACCEPT

Petrol Tank Changes DECLINE

Pop Up Roof - Added DECLINE

Pop Up Roof - Upgrade DECLINE

Power Boost Valve ACCEPT

Push Button Start ACCEPT

Quick Shift Gear Lever ACCEPT

Rally Lights ACCEPT

Rear Roof Spoiler ACCEPT

Rear Spoiler/Aerofoil ACCEPT

Rear Valance ACCEPT

Refrigerated DECLINE

Restrictor DECLINE

Right Hand Drive Conversion DECLINE

Road Conversion DECLINE

Rock Sliders ACCEPT

Roll Bars ACCEPT

Roll Cage DECLINE

Roof Rack NO REQUIREMENT TO DISCLOSE

Satellite Navigation Equipment NO REQUIREMENT TO DISCLOSE

Screen Changes DECLINE

Seatbelt Harnesses ACCEPT

Seats - Custom DECLINE

Seats - Removal ACCEPT

Seats - Replacement ACCEPT

Side Skirts/Sills ACCEPT

Side Steps ACCEPT

Slick Tyres DECLINE

Snorkel ACCEPT

Spoilers - Multiple ACCEPT

Sports Steering Wheel ACCEPT

Spot Lights ACCEPT

Stage 1 Head DECLINE

Stage 2 Head DECLINE

Stage 3 Head DECLINE

Stage 4 Head DECLINE

Standard Engine Replacement ACCEPT

Steering Change DECLINE

Strengthening Brackets ACCEPT

Stripes ACCEPT

Strut Brace ACCEPT

Sump Guard ACCEPT

Sunroof ACCEPT

Supercharging DECLINE

Suspension - Airbag/Hydraulic DECLINE

Suspension - Other DECLINE

Suspension - Uprated/Lowered/Stiffened Springs & Dampers DECLINE

Suspension Changes DECLINE

Tail Lift ACCEPT

Tent Boxes (Treat As Accessory) ACCEPT

Throttle Bodies Conversion (Non-Turbo) DECLINE

Throttle Bodies Conversion (Turbo) DECLINE

Tinted Windows ACCEPT

Towbar ACCEPT

Transmission Changes ACCEPT

Transmission Guard ACCEPT

Turbo Boost Controller DECLINE

Turbo Timer DECLINE

Turbocharging DECLINE

Twin Carb DECLINE

Unleaded Fuel Conversion ACCEPT

Upgraded External Mirrors ACCEPT

Upgraded Front Grille ACCEPT

Upholstery Changes DECLINE

Uprated Actuator DECLINE

Uprated Anti-Roll Bars DECLINE

Uprated Belt/Varieter Kit DECLINE

Uprated Brakes ACCEPT

Uprated Cam ACCEPT

Uprated Clutch ACCEPT

Uprated Fuel Injection DECLINE

Uprated Fuel Pump ACCEPT

Uprated Head Lamps ACCEPT

Uprated Headlight Bulbs ACCEPT

Uprated Stereo Systems DECLINE

Vinyl Wrap / Rubber DECLINE

Water Injection System ACCEPT

Water Tank(s) DECLINE

Wheel Spacers DECLINE

Wheel Trims ACCEPT

Wheelchair Clamps/Straps ACCEPT

Wheelchair Lift/Ramp/Winch ACCEPT

Wheels - Alloy ACCEPT

Wheels - Carbon DECLINE

Wheels - Magnesium DECLINE

Wheels - Wire DECLINE

Wider Tyres DECLINE

Wider Wheels DECLINE

Winch ACCEPT

Wind Deflectors Can be treated as an accessory

Wipers - Added ACCEPT

Wipers - Upgrade ACCEPT

After the heart break my 208 Gti gave me, I decided it’s time to move on and got this Mazda 3 with nearly years mot and recent hankook tyres all the way round, she’s a 2litre petrol 148k on the clock but these engines are pretty damn robust powering the mondeos and fiesta st in Fords, she got oem roof bars and working aircon also the previous owner got the subframe rubbed back and sealed, loads of paperwork, 2 owner car she needs a little tlc some adjustments here and there and bits to replace but I ain’t complaining at £350 her name is poppy because my neighbour said it’s almost similar in colour to a poppy.

Given the fact most cars these days follow the same generic formula of crossovers with stupid touchscreens, I'd be interested to know which cars that you could remember were launched on sale in the UK that you thought made no sense at the time they were launched.

For me, I'd say the Nissan Pulsar in 2015 because it was an Almera replacement but you already had the Qashqai which had influenced everyone to buy a crossover at that point.

Also, the car doesn't necessarily have to be a flop, it could have been a car that is among the best selling cars in the UK.

Bought a MG TF with a years MOT for £1k.

Already boiled over and ended up on the ramp, but zero regrets.

Treated it to some fresh oil, and hoping it lasts the year.

Don't hold back.

Just a car I seen today over from my work. It's beautiful, rare, old, relatively good condition albeit on the back of a lorry so mechanically unknown as of now but with the bikes onboard I'd guess this is a big journey and not just a recovery mission

Hey, I was looking to buy a 2014 BMW 320d, and I know about the timing chain problems related to the N47. I’ve been looking at one with 122,000 miles, it’s got everything I want and the colour I was looking for. It’s a got a good service history and records of a service most years, I think only one is missing. It doesn’t however have paperwork for the timing chain being replaced. My question is, if I look at the car and there is no obvious signs, i.e. rattling, misfire etc, is it a good idea to buy?

Hi all. The above car has it's mot in December. This is it's last MOT. It's a little 2011 Citroen c3 diesel. It was brought as a little run around for a learner to use. They haven't been able to use it much and the mot is fast approaching. The car was brought for 600, would the price of all of this work be much? Would it be worth getting it all done if it fails? Or just cut losses on the car and use any money they might save on a new car

I've got some rust and bubbling paint right on the inner edge of my driver's door on a used car I just bought. It wasn't immediately obvious to me when I bought it, though the dealership offered to have it repaired with a touch up pen though I'm a bit concerned that it wouldn't treat the underlying rust. They're refusing to do anything else. What do you think? It's a Toyota Yaris from 2018 btw.

Hi all,

Currently run a 2018 a8L (diesel as per title) it's been a joy for my 60 mile round trip daily commute (m1/m25).

With the madness of diesel prices and a few friends already in phev and ev cars I looked on auto trader as we do and ended up looking at i7 60 they seem to tick my boxes for a quiet comfy cruiser for work and back.

Hideous but competent is what I takeaway from various reviews - my question was anyone made the switch from diesel to EV and been able to make it work in their day to day life without range anxiety or anything scary cropping up?

Got driveway garage and space for home charger so not too worried about that more so what happens to range in traffic jams will I get caught short etc.

Thanks in advance for all advice.

2 front track rod ends
2 front ball joints
2 front brake discs and pads
2 rear coil springs

Had these replaced on my 2011 mazda 2, quoted £170.

Is that a good price? I supplied the parts myself

So after seeing so many of these new electric car deals pop up, got me considering my new car choices.

I know there’s a massive difference between getting a 3.0 v6 Mercedes or an electric car but the option I have is continue saving £20k up & get the Mercedes as I feel the years are limited to drive fun petrol cars. Or have £1000 a month extra in the bank & get an electric car on a £300 a month deal.

Has anyone got any thoughts, I know there will always be an option to get an electric car but there may not be a time I can get a 3.0 v6 Mercedes again.

Just looking for some general opinions!

I'm looking at buying a Seat Leon and drove one the other day. Just wondering what people’s experience is with the clutches on these... are they generally quite high?

The biting point was maybe 5–8cm down from the top of the pedal, but it also wasn’t super prominent, if that makes sense? The car seemed to accelerate fine, and there didn’t seem to be any obvious slipping or anything.

I did stall it a few times, particularly going off from 1st, but no issue when changing gears. I’m not sure if I should be putting that down to the clutch, me just not being used to the car, or something else entirely.

Does this sound normal for a Leon (2016, 80k miles), or would a high/not very noticeable biting point + stalling be something to be concerned about? Any thoughts/advice appreciated!

Car I'm thinking of purchasing had this show up on an MOT in 2024, has passed subsequent MOTs in 2025 & 2026 and done 12k miles since.

I plan on speaking to the dealership to confirm what work has been done but I do know it has a full service history. It's a Mazda 3 2.0 Skyactiv, 20 plate with 70k miles on it. I know Mazdas are prone to rust and I'd be hoping to get 10-12 years out of it at about 7k miles a year. Avoid or?

I currently own a petrol H. Jazz, and its days are counted due to many ailments. It will have to be another used car, about 10-12years old probably. I'm deciding between these two, and my dad is heavily pushing for an EV. I live in a flat, but could charge at work probably.

What says you, hivemind of reddit?

Hi everyone please can yoi help me find a car under £3500 that is reliable and affordable without a bad service history. I've been looking for days and I can only seem to find cars that price with lots of failed MOTs or front tyre issues.

I am looking for a car ideally in Leicester or max 30 miles from leicester

It would be my first car and I would like it to last quite some time but I just can't find one with good history.

Thank you