******Motors Chat - Round 6******

Noccy_Mondy

toastedpickles wrote: »

Being from the wesht the boys only know of tilling to land when they get it and making **** stone walls :pac:

Whatst his name.....row is fairly handy with pugs on here, as is dgt but he's MIA maybe pm him about them?

You are treading on thin ground here good sir -_- :pac:

I can construct a mean stone wall however!!

toastedpickles

toastedpickles wrote: »

Being from the wesht the boys only know of tilling to land when they get it and making **** stone walls :pac:

Whatst his name.....row is fairly handy with pugs on here, as is dgt but he's MIA maybe pm him about them?

What's the crack with DGT? Is he a mechanic? Or does he just mess with cars all day for the laugh?

He's in Navan I believe, so only around the corner (but that means a longer travel time for him).

I'll see if i can get a mechanic in Limerick to do it.

I wanted to see that Audi A4 before that was offered as an exchange for the Rav. Rang a mechanic in Newbridge about giving it a once-over and he said no. Autocare or something they were called (got their name on the motors forum after doing a search).

Said they wouldn't look at it cos they get people coming back to them when they get trouble. Said they didnt know any mechanics in their area that'd look at them.

Found that a bit strange.

(I know a car can look fine when you see it, but fall apart an hour later, but surely a contract saying they're not liable is the way forward?).

Otherwise all i can really get done is a pre-NCT check.

toastedpickles

Noccy_Mondy wrote: »

You are treading on thin ground here good sir -_- :pac:

I can construct a mean stone wall however!!

I know the science of constructing a good stone wall I'll have you know! :cool:

Sciennnnnce!!!

Noccy_Mondy

toastedpickles wrote: »

I know the science of constructing a good stone wall I'll have you know! :cool:

Sciennnnnce!!!

Ya, the science of fcuking stones on top of each other and hoping they don't fall :cool:

Kaiser D

Noccy_Mondy wrote: »

Ya, the science of fcuking stones on top of each other and hoping they don't fall :cool:

Thats how its done out Whest!

toastedpickles

Deleted User wrote: »

What's the crack with DGT? Is he a mechanic? Or does he just mess with cars all day for the laugh?

He's in Navan I believe, so only around the corner (but that means a longer travel time for him).

I'll see if i can get a mechanic in Limerick to do it.

I wanted to see that Audi A4 before that was offered as an exchange for the Rav. Rang a mechanic in Newbridge about giving it a once-over and he said no. Autocare or something they were called (got their name on the motors forum after doing a search).

Said they wouldn't look at it cos they get people coming back to them when they get trouble. Said they didnt know any mechanics in their area that'd look at them.

Found that a bit strange.

(I know a car can look fine when you see it, but fall apart an hour later, but surely a contract saying they're not liable is the way forward?).

Otherwise all i can really get done is a pre-NCT check.

He refers to himself as "someone who has an odd hobby/interest" which is fair enough, not a mechanic at all, same as me, I've learned from him, gotten help off him and taught myself most of what i know, it's a necessity for me i feel as prices for the most basic things on a saab are in three figures

Yeah some garages are a bit iffy with all that, like i bought my car knowing that at any minute it could blow, drive it down the m7 at spirited speeds shall we say the day i bought it and it made it and its still here thankfully, you'd be better off getting someone good in limerick to look over it

Kaiser D

Deleted User wrote: »

What's the crack with DGT? Is he a mechanic? Or does he just mess with cars all day for the laugh?

He's in Navan I believe, so only around the corner (but that means a longer travel time for him).

I'll see if i can get a mechanic in Limerick to do it.

I wanted to see that Audi A4 before that was offered as an exchange for the Rav. Rang a mechanic in Newbridge about giving it a once-over and he said no. Autocare or something they were called (got their name on the motors forum after doing a search).

Said they wouldn't look at it cos they get people coming back to them when they get trouble. Said they didnt know any mechanics in their area that'd look at them.

Found that a bit strange.

(I know a car can look fine when you see it, but fall apart an hour later, but surely a contract saying they're not liable is the way forward?).

Otherwise all i can really get done is a pre-NCT check.

Do you have a mechanic who you go to for work on your own car? Might be worth asking them if they would have a look, though you might pay heavily as its such a distance.

edit - saw your post on the previous page...

Yeah I use the same chap in Drogheda all the time. Whole family use him and most people who work with my family in their workplaces. But it wouldn't be really feasible I don't think, to get him to come out to Limerick.


I made a thread in the limerick forum, so I'll check that in the morning. Will also google it too. I'll ring the 407 seller first though obviously. See if the car is still available and if he minds me getting it checked out (obviously if he does, then I'm better off avoiding).

Although, again, I'm thinking im back to just saying 'feck it' and going and looking at it myself. I dont really know what I'm looking for but what the worst that can really happen? If I test drive it for half an hour and it doesnt fall apart, then surely that's a good enough sign? Then get my own mechanic to check it over when I get back?


EDIT: Far as I know, most issues with the Peugeot are with the Heater breaking and electrical issues (tyre sensors, etc.).

Assuming I can get all the dash lights to come on by turning the key, and then they all go off again when i turn it over, that'd be an all-clear for a lot of major issues (the lights wouldnt come on if a bulb were removed? and they'd stay on if a problem existed?).

Then just make sure every button and switch does what it's supposed to do..?

Check oil and then if im happy enough, make a deal?

toastedpickles

Deleted User wrote: »

Yeah I use the same chap in Drogheda all the time. Whole family use him and most people who work with my family in their workplaces. But it wouldn't be really feasible I don't think, to get him to come out to Limerick.


I made a thread in the limerick forum, so I'll check that in the morning. Will also google it too. I'll ring the 407 seller first though obviously. See if the car is still available and if he minds me getting it checked out (obviously if he does, then I'm better off avoiding).

Although, again, I'm thinking im back to just saying 'feck it' and going and looking at it myself. I dont really know what I'm looking for but what the worst that can really happen? If I test drive it for half an hour and it doesnt fall apart, then surely that's a good enough sign? Then get my own mechanic to check it over when I get back?

NO!

Bring someone with you, don't be a cheapskate about it, I bought a car once, when i was 17, knew nothing about cars, to me, you put in the fuel and turned the key and away you went, wasted a 1000 quid because i ignored everyone saying bring someone with you, ironically it was a pug 306, whats the worst thing that could happen? it could be hiding a lot of signs its about to fail and you not knowing a load on cars think, ah sure its just the cars noise, bring it back and the guy goes, ah yeah that's about 1500 in repairs, if you have that kind of money to throw away go right ahead, but seriously for the love of god get someone who knows what they're at to look over it

Kaiser D

Deleted User wrote: »

Yeah I use the same chap in Drogheda all the time. Whole family use him and most people who work with my family in their workplaces. But it wouldn't be really feasible I don't think, to get him to come out to Limerick.


I made a thread in the limerick forum, so I'll check that in the morning. Will also google it too. I'll ring the 407 seller first though obviously. See if the car is still available and if he minds me getting it checked out (obviously if he does, then I'm better off avoiding).

Although, again, I'm thinking im back to just saying 'feck it' and going and looking at it myself. I dont really know what I'm looking for but what the worst that can really happen? If I test drive it for half an hour and it doesnt fall apart, then surely that's a good enough sign? Then get my own mechanic to check it over when I get back?


EDIT: Far as I know, most issues with the Peugeot are with the Heater breaking and electrical issues (tyre sensors, etc.).

Assuming I can get all the dash lights to come on by turning the key, and then they all go off again when i turn it over, that'd be an all-clear for a lot of major issues (the lights wouldnt come on if a bulb were removed? and they'd stay on if a problem existed?).

Then just make sure every button and switch does what it's supposed to do..?

Check oil and then if im happy enough, make a deal?

You do seem to have a good idea on what to look at etc but I would advise finding a mechanic in Limerick to look at the car.

IF you do decide to look at it on your own, have a read of this post, in particular the part on actually viewing the car and what to look for:

http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2056198864

I actually already have that guide printed out and ready to go. I used it for my first car purchase (a 00 Focus) and then on the Rav, too. It's a good guide.


I know to check for squeaks or squeals as the car drives/rolls (at different speeds). I know to check all light bulbs, windows and buttons. Tune in a radio station or two. Press every button in the car. Check for dampness or wetness. Ensure the fans blow hot and cold and the Air con works, feel for vibrations as the car drives. Bring it over a pot hole or two and see if theres any 'somethings about to break' noise, go up and down through all gears, etc.


I can check oil (maybe a diesel is different to a petrol?). I can look at the other bottles (brake fluid, windscreen washer, etc.) and see if they've got anything in them.


It's Turbos and Timing Belts, Water Pumps and general other engine-y bits that I don't fully understand. But these are the things that cost megabucks when they go wrong. I also know that tippex on the engine means nothing and could be put there by anyone.

(though again, Im lead to believe the engine is generally fine, and with a 407 its usually the electronics that are the issue?)

toastedpickles

I'll also mention, service history means jack all too, to me anyways, unless it's major parts, like the turbo, waterpump and so on, and if they say any work was carried out ask for any receipts

Kaiser D

Deleted User wrote: »

(though again, Im lead to believe the engine is generally fine, and with a 407 its usually the electronics that are the issue?)

Thats not to say things on a certain car can't go wrong. Things like turbo, clutch, flywheel etc go wrong on all cars.

Ah yeah, that goes without saying. He's trying to sell me the car, so he can't be at all trusted :P

I got a number from an older thread in the Limerick forum for a chap called Des Kennedy. Apparently he's good with cars but particularly with 'auto-electronics'. So I'll give him a bell and see what kinda cash he'd be wanting to take a look at it (if he even will).


Quick question, though, in real-life terms, if he produces a receipt saying the belt was done at x miles, can I ring the garage/dealer or whoever did the belt, and get them to verify it? (ie; would a garage/dealer actually keep this information on file?). I know my mechanic might know if he did something by just remembering in his head, but he wouldnt have it written down anywhere or such. He'd likely forget after a week as he'd be working on so many other cars, too..?

toastedpickles

Yep! I have records from my car from the first ever service on it and all other major bits done to it at said dealership, given to me by said dealership when i asked them for all the records of the car

Kaiser D

Kaiser D wrote: »

Thats not to say things on a certain car can't go wrong. Things like turbo, clutch, flywheel etc go wrong on all cars.

Is the flywheel an expensive replacement? It sounds to me that a flywheel is like tyres these days? It's just expected you'll be replacing it every now and again with general wear and tear?

Turbo throws me off all together as I've no idea what it even is, does, looks like or sounds like. Dont think any car I've been in has had one, so wouldnt have any idea on that front.

And clutch, i dont know if I'd be able to tell if it's going or not. My general test is to just drive the car using the clutch alone (ie stop it, and take off using just the clutch, move into second gear with it after a minute or two of rolling in first?).

If it's not biting, or the car won't 'pull' thats when I'd start to feel a bit worried? (buts it never happened. I've never had a clutch go on me, so ive no idea what to expect or look for).

toastedpickles

toastedpickles wrote: »

Yep! I have records from my car from the first ever service on it and all other major bits done to it at said dealership, given to me by said dealership when i asked them for all the records of the car

Would that just be a dealership though? With a proper computer set up.

Would your average indy have it on file? (im doubtful?)

Kaiser D

Deleted User wrote: »

Ah yeah, that goes without saying. He's trying to sell me the car, so he can't be at all trusted :P

I got a number from an older thread in the Limerick forum for a chap called Des Kennedy. Apparently he's good with cars but particularly with 'auto-electronics'. So I'll give him a bell and see what kinda cash he'd be wanting to take a look at it (if he even will).


Quick question, though, in real-life terms, if he produces a receipt saying the belt was done at x miles, can I ring the garage/dealer or whoever did the belt, and get them to verify it? (ie; would a garage/dealer actually keep this information on file?). I know my mechanic might know if he did something by just remembering in his head, but he wouldnt have it written down anywhere or such. He'd likely forget after a week as he'd be working on so many other cars, too..?

If they've issued a professional looking receipt with their name, address, phone number etc then they should have record, or I'm sure someone will know.

Happened a lot when I was a mechanic, we keep records for things like this but someone usually remembered anyway.

toastedpickles

Deleted User wrote: »

Would that just be a dealership though? With a proper computer set up.

Would your average indy have it on file? (im doubtful?)

Yeah it was, it was faichney ringwood in sandyford, spirit i think theyre called now, but yeha i duno about an indy, they should, but most don't

Feck sake. Nevermind, chaps. Don't think I'll go near it.

Change Of Vehicle Ownership
Transferred to an Individual on: 11/04/2014
Notified on: 15/04/2014

Kaiser D

Deleted User wrote: »

Is the flywheel an expensive replacement? It sounds to me that a flywheel is like tyres these days? It's just expected you'll be replacing it every now and again with general wear and tear?

Turbo throws me off all together as I've no idea what it even is, does, looks like or sounds like. Dont think any car I've been in has had one, so wouldnt have any idea on that front.

And clutch, i dont know if I'd be able to tell if it's going or not. My general test is to just drive the car using the clutch alone (ie stop it, and take off using just the clutch, move into second gear with it after a minute or two of rolling in first?).

If it's not biting, or the car won't 'pull' thats when I'd start to feel a bit worried? (buts it never happened. I've never had a clutch go on me, so ive no idea what to expect or look for).

Clutch and flywheel are usually replaced together and it is an expensive job. You'll know when the clutch is slipping when revs increase but your speed doesn't. Make sure to try and bring the car onto a motorway or dual carriageway.

See if the car is down on power and look for smoke from the rear on heavy acceleration to test for turbo failure. Turbo failure on a diesel can result in the engine revving uncontrollably until something breaks. This is because if the oil can get into the inlet then it will be ignited in the cylinders and used as fuel. Cutting off the diesel in this situation won't stop the oil so it will continue running until it either blows up, or until it's used all of its oil and then something breaks.


RE change of ownership, I'd thread with caution. There could be a multitude of reasons. I'd be worried that something expensive has or is about to go bang and the owner wants rid. Ring and ask tomorrow.

I'll ring and ask. I'll ask when he got the car and if he says anything other than the date online then I'm going nowhere near it.


This Mazda 6 caught my eye. It's about 20 minutes away, comes from a dealer and would easily be haggled down to €3,500 i'd imagine (probably more?). I was planning on heading out to look at it tomorrow until i seen that 407 again. But now I'm being put off the 407 again. I think I'll just buy the Mazda after the 407 phone call. Ticks most of my ever-changing boxes, but it's convenient and nearby (and everytime i find a car I like something puts me off it or it gets sold on my way to buy it!).


http://www.carzone.ie/search/Mazda/Mazda6/2.0-TDI-/39313899824678270/advert?channel=CARS


Fed up looking for a car now. Next car I buy is getting a decent budget put into it and i'm keeping it til i die. :P

Kaiser D

Look up about the Mazda 6 diesel on here. All can say is:

STAY AWAY!!!!!!

The petrol models are fantastic, diesels are pure rubbish.

Kaiser D

Kaiser D wrote: »

Look up about the Mazda 6 diesel on here. All can say is:

STAY AWAY!!!!!!

The petrol models are fantastic, diesels are pure rubbish.

You have to be joking me?! :mad:

It's almost getting satirical at this stage. Is there actually a car out there that doesn't have warning signs attached to it?

I'd be almost better off buying a better bicycle at this stage

Though I do notice the time of my previous post... must be a sign.. :P

Kaiser, if you were me.. what would you buy? (edit; I can almost guarantee we've completely different taste in cars :P )

Kaiser D

Deleted User wrote: »

You have to be joking me?! :mad:

It's almost getting satirical at this stage. Is there actually a car out there that doesn't have warning signs attached to it?

I'd be almost better off buying a better bicycle at this stage

Hahaha, I had a feeling you wouldn't like that

To be honest, all cars from this era have known issues, some more so than others, and diesels more so than petrol usually.

I'm not saying all diesels are unreliable or whatever, but if you want something that will give very little hassle, don't buy a diesel from this era.

Kaiser D

If I were you I would be looking out for a nicely spec'ed Peugeot 407 in either 1.8 or 2.0 petrol.

They really are good and reliable cars and from what I gather from your posts you seem to like then. Or a Citroen C4.

Yeah, but I want to move from petrol to diesel.

Is there any reason why diesels of that age are so unreliable?

I still want to take a look at that 407 in limerick, but I'm wary to the extreme. Definitely needs a mechanic looking at it (and driving it). And an acceptably valid reason for selling it so soon after getting it.

Kaiser D

Deleted User wrote: »

Yeah, but I want to move from petrol to diesel.

Is there any reason why diesels of that age are so unreliable?

I still want to take a look at that 407 in limerick, but I'm wary to the extreme. Definitely needs a mechanic looking at it (and driving it). And an acceptably valid reason for selling it so soon after getting it.

There getting more complicated, which is causing the trouble.
DPF's, DMF's, High pressure rails/injectors/pumps, turbo's, there all common issues in most modern diesels. If you take a diesel Toyota Carina or something similar from the 90s, the engine is just so much more simple. But obviously these modern diesel engines give a much smoother drive etc.
I'm not saying all diesels are unreliable and should be avoided. All cars give bother, petrol and diesel. No matter what, a car will give you trouble.