Car broken down

[Mark1]

I'd say you got value for money there. That looks full!

I would have got value for money if it was a packet of crisps lol

[Gern]

When I used to help my Dad repairing our old car as a kid he always said the designers should be forced to repair the cars they designed. He reckoned it would improve the accessibility of pieces that needed replacing.

In the same vein, the guys who design kits should be made to build them!

[Gern]

Glad to see I'm not the only one with car troubles. Mind you, to be fair, mine are self inflicted.

Had problems with my old E280 diesel as I only drive about 15 miles a week so I couldn't keep the battery charged. Sold it to a family friend and bought an A150.

Stupid me, I bought it online and didn't do a test drive. First time I drove it, my dashboard flashed up "Transmission fault. Return to garage". I hadn't noticed the dealer hadn't put his address on his advert. By the time I found him, he'd shut down and is now trading under a different name. Only the Gods know if I'll be able to get a refund through Trading Standards.

Bought a C180 with a relatively clean MOT. After about 5 miles I got a dashboard message about brake wear. Took it to an independent garage and he failed it saying the rear brake pipes are so corroded he couldn't test the brakes. Took it back to the dealer who had it up on his ramp for nearly 5 hours, replaced the brake sensor and told me it's OK now. Brake wear light came on again on my way home so have now booked it for yet another MOT at my mate's garage. Now gotta wait 'til Tuesday to see what's what.

Next time I go looking for a car - which looks like it's going to be next week - I'm gonna get a mechanic mate to come with me. He'll fit me with a blindfold and sort out a motor for me 'cos I can't resist the temptation. "Oooohhh shiny! Gimme!"

Took my C180 in for a second opinion MOT this morning. This garage also told me the brakes were so bad he couldn't test it! Of course, the onus is now on me to sort everything out with the dealer and Trading Standards. Oh joy!

Been five weeks since I reported the problem with the A150 and still nothing from the dealer and Trading Standards say they can't help me until the dealer has had a chance to rectify the situation! Can't see him doing that as he's closed the business. Maybe I can go after him personally? Back to Trading Standards tomorrow.