Buying an Older Car: 17 Things You Need to Know
Buying an older car can be an affordable way to get behind the wheel, but here are the key things you need to know. Check the mileage: Mileage can be a better indicator of future maintenance costs than the car’s age alone. Get a complete service history: Look for evidence of regular servicing, repairs and replacement parts. A well-maintained older car can be more dependable than a neglected newer one. Run a history check: Confirm...
Petrol and Diesel Prices in Ireland Rise Sharply as Further Increases Loom
Petrol and diesel prices increased significantly in August, according to the latest fuel price analysis from AA Ireland. Diesel recorded the steepest rise, increasing by 19 cents per litre in just one month. The increases were driven by movements in wholesale markets rather than changes to excise duty, which remained unchanged throughout August. However, motorists face additional pressure at the pumps as the phased restoration of...
EU Tariffs on Chinese EVs: Six Things You Need to Know
The EU introduced tariffs on Chinese-built electric cars to protect European manufacturers from what it considered unfair competition. But did they work? Here are six things to know. 1. Why were the tariffs introduced? The European Commission found that Chinese EV manufacturers had benefited from significant state support, allowing them to sell cars at prices European companies struggled to match. The tariffs were intended to level...
5 Ways to Get the Best New Car Finance Deal
While there’s nothing quite like driving a new car off the forecourt, first you need to get up to speed on your finance options, writes Geraldine Herbert 1) Haggle Don’t be afraid to haggle before making any car purchase and agreeing on a finance deal. Obviously the more money you are spending on the car the greater the scope for manoeuvring but regardless of the price it is always worth trying to negotiate. If you can’t secure a...
Ireland’s E-Scooter Ban: Why Enforcement, Not a Blanket Ban, Is the Answer
As Taoiseach Micheál Martin considers an e-scooter ban in Ireland, the real question is whether banning legal, regulated e-scooters will improve public safety or simply distract from the failure to enforce existing laws on illegal vehicles and criminal misuse asks Geraldine Herbert It seems an extraordinary response that Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said he is “leaning towards” a ban on e-scooters following growing...
Planning a Family Road Trip? Essential Packing Hacks and Budget Tips You Need to Know
A successful road trip starts long before you turn the key. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or exploring Ireland this summer, a few smart packing tricks and money-saving tips can help you stay organised, cut costs and enjoy a smoother journey from start to finish writes Geraldine Herbert There’s something special about a road trip. Whether you’re exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, heading for a weekend break or...
