By Paul Gover.
Q: My 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer was last serviced in June 2019 at 62,000 kilometres
Since then I’ve only done another 4500 kilometres and I’m thinking about having it serviced.
The service centre says that this is the 120,000 logbook which costs $423. Inclusions are engine oil and oil filter, brake fluid, coolant and cabin filter.
What should I do? Ask for the 60,000 standard service or do the 120,000 service?
Saul M
A: Leaving any car for 18 months between servicing is not remotely good. Services are required by distance or time. So you might have done few kilometres, but the time is mounting up for a car built in 2012. I’d play safe and get the ‘full fat’ service.
Q: Last year we purchased a Toyota RAV4 and we’ve been very happy.
Ferrying grand-children when we have a chance has been very special.
However, one area we did overlook when purchasing this deal was the spare tyre.
I’m not a fan of the space-saver tyres and I wonder whether you think I should change it.
Is it worth the extra expense that Toyota told me it would be?
Bob W
A: When did you last have a flat tyre? And would you change it yourself or call for the motoring club’s roadside service? For peace of mind you could probably go ahead, but I’d also check a wrecker for the price of a wheel and tyre instead of what will be a costly purchase from Toyota.
Q: I am thinking of buying a Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
But I think a new model must be close.
Have you heard anything?
Guy N
A: There is nothing on the near horizon for an all-new C-Class in Europe, which means the back end of next year at the earliest in Australia. The big new arrival is the replacement for the S-Class flagship. Have you considered the latest BMW 3 Series? It overtook the C-Class last year as best in class, for the first time in nearly a decade, in my personal rankings.
Q: My wife and I would like your opinion as to which vehicles we should be considering for a trip we are planning now things are getting better in Victoria.
We plan to travel for about 3-4 months up north – taking in Darwin/Kimberly/Broome/and down the West Coast – before coming home.
We would like to tow a small lightweight pop-top van or similar which I have done before many years ago.
We don’t intend to do much, if any, off-roading.
Vehicles that we have considered include Toyota Prado, Skoda Superb Wagon, Isuzu D Max and Subaru Outback.
Ian & Maria C
A: From your list, I would go first with the Superb because it will be a great long-distance car that’s comfortable and relaxing. If you insist on the ‘outback traveller’ paradigm with full-scale off-road ability you will never use, then it must be a Prado. I think the Superb will be what the name says, but a Prado will tow well but cost more to buy and run.
Q: Could you please advise me whether the new Kia Seltos GT is a good vehicle to purchase.
Godfrey C
A: Yes, the Seltos is a very good car. But beware of the GT suspension and tyre package, which might be too noisy and harsh if you want a relaxing ride.
Q: My daughter is eyeing some MG new cars going for around $17,000.
I would appreciate if you can provide your advice before she goes ahead with purchasing.
Linda
A: Please, no, not the MG3. The larger MGs, the ZS SUVs, but the only things going for the MG3 are the British brand – on a Chinese car – and the bargain basement price. She would do far better to stretch a bit and go for a Suzuki Swift.
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