By Paul Gover.
Q: I have a 2021 Hyundai i30 sedan which uses wireless Apple CarPlay.
Disconnection issues still persist even though there was a software update released back in May.
Hyundai is giving the run-around and blaming an Apple fault and not them. I’m aware if affects many i30s and Kia models with the 8-inch display.
Do you have any idea or sources at your end to find out when this wireless issue will be fixed?
Kyaw L
A: At its core there appears to be a disconnect between Hyundai and Apple’s developers, with the South Korean brand struggling to adapt to updates from the Americans. Hyundai is hoping for a proper fix before the end of the year, but currently says: “Customers has seen improvements in performance in uploading the latest iOS versions – iOS 14.7.1 – minimum dropout – and iOS 15 will offer further refinement to the CarPlay platform, further negating the dropouts.”
Q: Would you please give me your recommendation regarding a 2019 Holden Acadia LTZ?
Is this a good car made by GM?
I’m looking at a secondhand car with an asking price of $39,000 with 34,500 kilometres on the clock, still with new-car warranty as well.
My current vehicle is a 2012 Ford Territory Titanium, and the mileage is approximately 338,000 kilometres. I’ve had this car since new, but feel it’s time to change as she is getting older.
Damian M
A: The Acadia is not great, not horrible, but took too long to arrive from the USA and by then Holden was in terminal decline. Probably better to avoid, because it is an orphan as a once-off Holden model. There are plenty of good Hyundai Santa Fes and Kia Sorentos in your price range that are a better bet.
Q: You have given great advice to my daughter in the past, and now I’m looking at the Kia Rio, Kia Stonic and Mazda2.
At the moment I drive a Toyota Yaris which is getting old, but in good condition.
Looking forward to see which you suggest.
Cathy R
A: The Mazda2 is getting old. The Rio is a good little car and great value but you’re more likely to enjoy the much newer Stonic, which is also from Kia but more flexible for more people with its SUV packaging and easier access.
Q: I’m in the market to upgrade my wife’s 2005 Volkswagen Touareg and there are two cars that I’m looking at at the moment.
They are the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Carnival Platinum.
We are only five in the family but seven seats is always good.
I was wondering if you have any experience with these cars.
Riko P
A: The Palisade has a more American feel that many people are liking, but the Carnival is also great. This is a line-ball call but probably better to go with the full-loaded Carnival and also enjoy the slightly longer Kia warranty.
Q: I am 33, single with no dependents and looking at a Toyota Yaris Ascent auto from 2014 or 2015.
It really is just to get from A to B, so I would also like it to be economical and easy enough to get parts if things go wrong.
I don’t want anything brand-new, though not too old either. Also, an auto.
I would like a rear camera if possible, and be able to use my phone hands free; though neither of these things are 100 per cent necessary.
In terms of price range, my upper limit is $15,000.
Tahnee D
A: A Yaris will cost more, just because it is a Toyota, when you get far better value with a Hyundai or Kia. So a Kia Cerato is a good place to start, but probably best of all is the Suzuki Swift with is Yaris in size, just as reliable, but better value with a great long-term reputation.
Q: Looking at a small SUV.
What’s better, Hyundai Kona or Mitsubishi ASX?
Looking at spending $25,000.
Darren
A: Easy. Kona every time.
Q: My partner and I are considering purchasing a new Peugeot 3008 GT diesel.
The problem is there is not one in Australia and unlikely to be until April 2022, although the petrol model may be available sooner.
Is it worth the wait? Should we consider the petrol model? What do you suggest as alternative(s)?
Matt S
A: Blunt but honest? I drove a 3008 last month and was not impressed. Nothing special at all. In contrast, the 2008 was funky and fun and gets The Tick from me. If the size is ok for you, I’d definitely recommend the 2008. If not, go to Kia. Ok, not the same ambiance as a Peugeot, or the design flair, but a better car than a 3008 at a good price.
Q: I recently had my car serviced at 90,000 kilometres at a Melbourne dealership and received the dreaded phone call mid-morning with a small list of items not covered by the capped-price service.
It was windscreen wiper blades at $50, a brake fluid flush at $220, and a battery at $350.
On the 75,000 service they also flushed the brake fluid and, when questioned about the sudden need to flush the brake fluid after only 15,000 more, I was told that maybe the cap had come loose and allowed moisture in.
Not happy with the response I called the service manager and was asked if I do a lot of towing.
Is this unusual or are they price gouging? Should I have my car checked out by a brake specialist?
They recommend rotating the tyres every 15,000kms yet it’s not something they do every service. Why?
Paul T
A: Sounds like opportunism from a dealer doing things a bit tough. The arrival of capped-price servicing means some unscrupulous outlets are trying to pad the bill – with things like cleaning of pollen filters and replacement of half-worn tyres – and yours is a timely reminder to question every charge.
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