PERFORMANCE HERO
Of all the vehicles I wouldn’t drive “like I stole it” the Hiace would be up there. I’d be into a hedge with a burnt-out clutch in no time.
SAFE OR UNSAFE?
Re autonomous emergency braking (AEB) happening at the wrong time, I’ve experienced this many times. I wonder how many so-called “brake-check” incidents are initiated by AEB? Unwanted braking has led to the usual pumped-up ute blokes tailgating me thinking I’ve brake-tested them, but it’s been the AEB at work. No wonder they overtake me enraged. Ross F, email
Not only AEB, but also radar cruise control. If a car suddenly pulls in front on the highway, the radar cruise jabs the brakes and can look like you’re brake-testing the car (or angry ute driver) behind. If people just left a safe distance to the car in front, so much road rage – and so many accidents – could be avoided.
CRACKING UP
My 2019 Subaru Forester driver’s leather seat has two splits on the side. It’s only done 40,000km. The dealer was of the opinion it wouldn’t be covered under warranty as it’s wear and tear. I’m perplexed as the splits are on spots I don’t sit. Should I pursue this with Subaru or am I flogging a dead horse?
Silvio Iadarola, email
Absolutely you should pursue this issue with Subaru Australia. Other Forester owners have reported cracking seats, and if they can’t show any accidental damage on your part has caused them, it surely must be a warranty repair. I don’t think anyone would think split seats is fair wear and tear on a car that’s less than three years old. If you’ve had no joy with the dealer, call Subaru customer care on 1800 226643, get a case number from them and tell them you’re looking for a repair under warranty.
REV HEAD
At my 2019 MG3’S first service the dealership asked if there were any issues. I said yes, it does 2000rpm on start-up first thing in the morning. I was told this is normal. Things must have changed since I was an apprentice and taught never to rev a cold engine.
Denys Elder, email
I wouldn’t worry, 2000rpm won’t be stretching a cold engine. If it stays at 2000rpm at idle there is a problem and the dealer must diagnose and remedy this. MG offers a seven-year warranty, so make good use of it. But really, the 82kw 1.5-litre four-cylinder in your MG3 isn’t an engineering marvel. If a few revs get it started on a cold morning I’d forgive it that.
FUEL MISER
Re Jeep fuel economy, I have a 2015 Cherokee Limited 2.0-litre diesel. On a 9000km trip towing a 2000kg camper trailer I recorded 10.2L/100km. On a 450km highway leg I saw 8.1L/100km. I was the happiest camper and it tows beautifully.
Ian Murley, email
You’re a miracle worker if your figures are accurate, Ian. Previous letter writers were towing with heavier Grand Cherokees, so your smaller Cherokee does have an advantage. Its official economy is 5.8L/100km with no trailer, but my test saw closer to 8L/100km. For the sake of the planet, and your wallet, I hope your numbers are accurate!