HAPPY TO CARRY A SPARE
Any downside to replacing run-flats with regular tyres?
I have ordered a new BMW X5 which only comes with run-flat tyres on 20-inch rims and an emergency inflatable spare. I like the car but I think the ride quality is compromised. The dealer is happy to change the rim size to 19-inch but the run-flats remain. I have no issues with putting the spare on if I get a flat, so do you see any downside with replacing the run flat tyres with regular tyres?
Glenn Morris, email
Switching from run-flats is costly and means new rims. Jon Tamblyn from Bridgestone Australia has the best advice: “In the early days of run-flat tyres, the sidewall stiffness was substantially higher than conventional tyres and a change would have made a big difference in ride comfort. Today, the difference is barely noticeable. The change from 20 to 19-inch will improve the ride comfort much more than getting rid of the run-flat tyres.”
OVER SUVs
Is there any chance at all you can get away from SUV and buzz-box reviews? Frankly, most families do not need an SUV-type vehicle. Stability-wise they are not as good sedans, therefore not as safe, and the noise factor with items rattling around in the so-called minimalistic boot-come-storage space is an issue. I find these SUVs a curse as you can’t see through them or around them to anticipate changes coming up, and more often than not the headlights are not adjusted properly thus blinding you with the glare. And don’t get me started on the inability of a lot of the drivers of large SUVs to park and reverse them. Matthew Stewart, email
Sales of SUVs continue to grow and we are reporting and reviewing the vehicles that people want and buy. We also cover sedans but their popularity is falling dramatically.
RIGHTS AND WRONGS
Regarding SUVs on cramped roads, I find that most streets are not wide enough, especially for cars with wide mirrors and large SUVs. If there is a collision the car passing the parked car is on the wrong side of the road and is at fault. It is the law to stop and give way in Melbourne and it is also courteous and safer. I get very angry with drivers who do not stop and give way as it is they who are coming on to my side of the road to pass a parked car. Barry Tennant, email
Good points, as courtesy is always the best policy.
DIY PAYS OFF
Regarding batteries in Mazdas, our CX-5 Maxx Sport 2.2 diesel also had its battery die at about 30,000km. Mazda wanted $700 for a battery and I said, “No way.” I went to Autobarn and got the right size for under $200, then fitted it myself. Two years later it hasn’t missed a beat and we live in FNQ. The ordinary battery works fine and there are no issues whatsoever with the iStop either.
David Buckman, email
Sometimes the old-fashioned DYI way works best.
HOLDEN SEVEN-SEATER DUE
I’ve had two Holden Adventras with no problems. I would really like to buy another if it was available. But now I hear there is an Acadia coming out next year so would love to read a report soon.
Don Andrew, email
The seven-seater Acadia is still months away. I’ve had a short taste test in LA and it’s pretty handy. The big test only comes against direct rivals here.
AXES OF GOOD
Regarding the design of the “boxer” engines used by Subaru and Porsche, and VW in earlier years, I can add some detail. A horizontally opposed arrangement, with an even number of cylinders, has balance along all three axes — X, Y, Z — because every piston movement is balanced exactly by an opposing piston. It is said to have “three degrees” of balance. An inline engine with an even number of cylinders has only two degrees of balance. Therefore, from a mechanical engineering viewpoint, the boxer is inherently better balanced than in-line and vee engines. So your reply that “There is no fundamental reason to dismiss a boxer engine” is correct. In fact, the mechanical theory would indicate that, from a balance point of view, they are actually superior.
John Short, Bachelor of Engineering, email
It’s good to be backed by an expert.
NOISES A GOOD SIGN
In April, I bought a 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander
with 16,000km on the clock. I am happy with the car’s performance and it has now done about 21,000km. However, after I turn it off and am exiting, the engine has a series of loud ticking noises which can last up to 10-20 seconds. This happens on most, but not all occasions. Is this a worry?
Vince Spark, email
Cooling metal often makes noises as it contracts, so if there is no ticking when the engine is running then it’s 99.99 per cent not a worry.
The carnival’s fantastic fireworks finale tomorrow night is the Gold Coast’s largest display, with three separate shows igniting the beach and riverside precinct in celebration for both families and late-night revellers to enjoy.
Bring your party hats and picnic blankets and rejoice with family and loved ones on an unforgettable evening of colour, light and sound as the clock strikes midnight.
Young families wanting to share the momentous occasion with their little ones at an earlier time slot can secure a vantage point on the golden sands of Surfers Paradise beach for the first fireworks show at 8pm, with kids encouraged to dress in the patriotic colours of green and gold.
The celebration extends throughout the precinct, with Surfers Paradise Riverside hosting a choreographed fireworks display over Nerang River at 1pm.
And, of course, for those who can stay up late … don’t miss the iconic 12am fireworks extravaganza offshore on Surfers Paradise Beach as it lights up the seas on the stroke of midnight.
With three different fireworks displays, carnival rides, and a range of restaurants and attractions, there is something to delight every member of the family in Surfers Paradise.
WHERE: Surfers Paradise beach, opposite Soul
CONTACT: surfersparadise.com PRICE: Free