By Paul Gover.
Q: We bought a Holden VF Commodore SS-V approximately three years ago for around $40,000.
Its compliance date is May 2015, it was first registered on August 31 that year, and it’s a 6-litre V8 manual in green.
It has only covered 19,700 kilometres.
Due to the current market conditions we are toying with the idea of selling it, as we have seen similar cars asking $50-60,000, although none have such low kilometres.
So – should we sell it or should we keep it?
We bought it as an investment, it is garaged and is in mint condition, and obviously it is not driven a lot as we would like to keep the kilometres down.
Mara P
A: If you love it then keep it. Otherwise, it’s hard to know exactly when prices for cars like yours will peak but it’s definitely not going to be a GTHO Phase 3 type of investment. If you can get the price you want, don’t be greedy and move it on.
Q: We are wanting to replace our Ford Falcon FG XR6 which served us so well for 11 years prior to being stolen.
We’re looking for a car that will be a comfortable ride on four-hour trips and be able to handle towing a moderate load up to 800 kilograms, such as an 8×4 trailer moderately laden or aluminium-hulled boat.
The budget is up to $35,000 or even a bit more for a new vehicle.
We have been thinking about a VF 3.6 Commodore wagon 2017 or an older FG Falcon or the array of other makes.
We are really confused and unsure what to purchase.
Norm R
A: Given your apparent love for big Aussie cars the Commodore would be a good choice, but prices for them are soaring so you will need to move fast.
Q: I have a 2011 Ford Falcon G6E and I was just wondering where I can get the satnav updated.
It hasn’t been updated for a good six or seven years and Ford obviously don’t do the G6E any more.
Ray K
A: The best thing for you is to get a new infotainment unit. It will give you lots more functions than a 2011 system, including quality Bluetooth connectivity, and even if you could get an update for the exisiting system it is going to cost more than it’s worth.
Q: I have a young acquaintance who looks after an elderly lady with no family or relatives.
She has a 1975 Toyota Corolla, about 116,000 miles, kept in a garage in perfect condition that she runs regularly.
She has offered it to my acquaintance for $10,000.
She wants to know if there’s anyone who could check it out. I suggested RACV but she thinks it should be someone who knows old cars.
Chris G
A: That’s a premium price for a Corolla as one recently hit that amount at a classic car auction. A company like Shannons Auctions would know the value but a simple RACV check will reveal any problems with the car as the Corolla was always simple and basic in the 1970s.
Q: l am considering upgrading my Kia Sportage, which l really like, but l need to know what to go for.
Diesel, petrol or electric?
I’m worried if l go for petrol or diesel l will never be able to sell it in years to come as the government keeps telling us there will only be electric cars in the near future.
Also, is Kia going to bring out an electric car?
Chris
A: All brands will eventually have fully electric cars, and there is already a battery-powered Hyundai Kona. But it’s just on double the price of the petrol model, so dreadful on value. The change to electric is not going to happen overnight, despite what you hear from early-adopter countries like Greenland and with the government rules in places like the UK, so now is not the time to go electric unless you are cashed-up or a committed greenie.
Q: My 18 year-old-daughter has a $10,000 budget and is looking for a hatch.
What are your thoughts on the best model to look for?
Chris M
A: Suzuki Swift. Every time. Nice looking, good value and quality, should be pretty safe for the money.
Q: I have a 2017 Holden Captiva which has done 101,000 kilometres and has a 7-year warranty.
I think my turbo has blown as the car goes into limp mode and blows a lot of black smoke.
Does Holden still uphold its warranty?
Damien D
A: Holden is honouring all its warranties and commitments for parts and service. Dealerships have closed but there is still a network of service outlets.
Q: Can I get your opinion of the Hyundai Santa Fe
We normally stick to the Honda CR-V over the last 15 years so it’s a big deal to change to Hyundai.
They do look very swish when I look at Carsales but are they a good buy.
Linda F
A: The new Santa Fe is even better than it looks, ticking all the right boxes for a family SUV. Also look at the Kia Sorento, which is identical under the body, to see which one has the better value for you.
Q: I wish to purchase a wagon and my key criteria is long-term reliability.
Which of the following do you recommend and should I be considering other models – Subaru Outback, the run-out model or the new one just released, or the Skoda Octavia?
Tony J
A: Based on the brand’s excellent long-term reputation in Australia, it has to be the Subaru for you. There should be a better deal on the run-out version of the Outback, but there are good improvements in the new one that justify picking the latest model.
If you have a question for the Car Doctor, send an email to [email protected]
