Got a query?
Q
Finding a long enough hose I’VE just moved and for the first time I have an outside tap, but it is at the back for the garden, and I can only wash my car on the drive at the front. Is there a hose long enough to reach? Jonny O’connor, E-mail
A
YOU don’t say how far the hose needs to reach, but the Hozelock retractable (above) was the Recommended choice in our most recent test (Issue 1,322) and has a 40-metre hose (www.hozelock.com). The range includes a 50-metre free-standing reel, and you can always attach additional hoses to reach.
Q
New tyres on front or back? WHEN I asked a dealer to replace the front tyres on my car, it fitted the new tyres on the back and the old rears on the front. I didn’t want this, as I’d rather even up the wear. What can I do? Vern Legge, E-mail
A
THERE’S nothing to stop you swapping the wheels yourself after getting the car back, but this would not be the safest option. Our tests have proven that, in low-grip conditions, it’s far safer to have the most grip on the rear from new tyres. The car is easier to control when it slides at the front than at the back.
Q
Period plates problem I WANT to fit white-on-black period number plates to my classic car. It’s too young to have worn them in period, although I like the look and they suit the design. But will they be legal? Sean Boycee, E-mail
A
IF your car is more than 40 years old and registered in the historic class then, as well as being exempt from paying road tax, you can fit period plates. But bear in mind that the 40-year exemption rolls forward each year on 1 April so, if your car does not qualify now, it will do at some point.