10 quick checks when buying a used car
If you are thinking about purchasing a used car here are 10 quick checks you can do writes Geraldine Herbert Tyres – Make sure there is plenty of tread left, and that the wear is even across them; and don’t forget the spare. Wheels – Check the wheels carefully for any marks or scuffs caused by kerbing. Windscreen – Ensure there are no cracks that could lead to an NCT failure. Lights – Ensure that all the lights are working and that...
First Drive: Audi Q5
Totally redesigned from the ground up the new Audi Q5 may not look different but looks are deceptive writes Geraldine Herbert What is it? Aimed squarely at the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, Jaguar F-Pace and Land Rover Discovery Sport, Audi’s middle child, the Q5, has been completely redesigned First impressions of the new Audi Q5? Upon first glance, apart from the new single-frame grille, the second-generation Q5 remains...
How to ensure Learner Drivers are safer on our roads
Learner drivers are among our most vulnerable road users, so how can we ensure they are safer on our roads asks Geraldine Herbert What is the Transport Minister Shane Ross proposing? Transport Minister Shane Ross is considering changing the law to allow Gardaí to seize vehicles being driven by unaccompanied learner drivers. Currently if a learner driver, who is driving unaccompanied, is stopped by a Garda they are issued a fine and...
Some simple steps to get you through the NCT
Over half of all cars tested by the NCT don’t pass with most defects being easy to avoid like faulty light bulbs or worn tyres writes Geraldine Herbert There were just under 1.5 million NCT tests carried out last year and more than half of the cars tested failed first time. However those that fail usually have an issue that is very simple to fix either by the driver or by a mechanic before the day of the NCT. Broken headlights,...
First Drive: Honda Civic
Honda has made a huge investment in the new Civic and first impressions suggest it was money well spent writes Geraldine Herbert What is it? The new 10th generation Civic gets a complete makeover from engines to transmission it’s all brand new. First impressions of the new Honda Civic? This futuristic-looking hatch is now lower, longer and wider than any previous version. The styling is also angular and more cutting edge but it won’t...