Ask Honest John

Most recently answered gearboxes questions
You recently commented unfavourably on the VW DSG, and the hesitation at roundabouts. I want an automatic with a high seating position, and with sufficient room in the boot for a wheelchair. I was considering...
I have a Kia Picanto 2004, the automatic gear box needs replacement and I've been trying to source one and the only one I found cost more that the car itself. Please could you recommend where I can get...
In your reply to WS on 8/10, you warn of the need to be careful with automated manual gearboxes but do not specify the problems. I intend to replace my 2010 Astra auto with a Yaris auto/manual next year,...
I am not often given justification to offer thanks for the standard of service in today's profit driven society however I wanted to record my thanks to both Honda UK and to my local dealer Cloverleaf Honda...
Why are the intermediate gear ratios in modern cars set so high? Many cars with 6 speed gear boxes have the same peak speed in 4th, 5th, and 6th. Why not set 3rd, and 4th a little lower to aid overtaking...
I have the excellent new style late 2007 2.0 litre diesel Mondeo with the 6-speed Durashift automatic box, 55,000 miles, fully maintained. I am thinking of keeping this for another year or two. Are there...
We had a new clutch put in our 2002 Ford Focus 14 months ago. The garage sent us out without putting the gear oil/lubricant in, we drove about 14 miles and then realised and drove the car back as we knew...
My wife has just purchased a FIAT 500. It was registered October 2010 but has only done 40 miles having been an unused, ex BSM car (no dual controls, etc. It really has been unused). Whilst she loves...
I have been driving a Honda Civic 1.4 (petrol, manual) for five years and it is time to replace it. The car has returned 50mpg on average, mainly because of the sixth gear. Are there other cars of comparable...
Our parents have bought an A-Class Mercedes but mum is having trouble with engaging reverse gear. It's a 6-speed box with R in top left postion so the driver has to pull the stick up and push it away to...
 

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