Martin Saarinen

QBest towing option

I SPEND my summer towing a caravan and am looking to buy a 2014 Audi Q5 2.0-litre TDI as my next car. Will I be able to tow heavier loads with an automatic compared with a manual? Which is the better choice? Ian Craig, E-mail

ATHE maximum load for the 2.0 TDI – both the manual and S tronic automatic – is 2,400kg. You’ll probably get better economy from the six-speed manual, and find one for less cash, but the automatic will be easier to drive. You also won’t risk wearing out the clutch.

QExpired warranty rights

I BOUGHT a used Ford Focus, but after several months I noticed a clutch judder. My dealer said it’d be covered under warranty, but I couldn’t get it booked in for weeks and now the cover has run out. Will I need to pay? Elsie Fletcher, E-mail

ANO. As long as you highlighted the issue to Ford and they have a record of it prior to your warranty expiring, the job will be covered. Contact your dealer to set up the appointment or call Ford Customer Services on 020 3564 4444.

QCan I carry over service?

I BOUGHT a Skoda Citigo three years ago on finance, and with it a service plan. I switched into a Rapid this March only to find out I cannot carry the service plan over even though I have one service left. Is this right? Colin Hick, E-mail

AUNFORTUNATELY it is. The terms on Skoda service plans – and most other manufacturers’ – state the plan is specific to the car, so while it can be transferred when the car is sold on, it can’t be moved to another vehicle.