How much can I tow?

MY wife and I are considering buying a caravan for holidays. Are there any restrictions on what I can tow or use with my car?

Glynn Davies, E-mail

IF you passed your test after 1997 there are restrictions on what you can tow. The limits are quite high, although you can do another test if you want to tow something bigger. As our Towcar of the Year feature on Page 50 shows, it’s vital to match the caravan you buy to your car. A rule of thumb is the caravan shouldn’t exceed 85 per cent of the car’s unladen weight. The Caravan Club (caravanclub.co.uk) is a good source of advice.

Removing deep scratches

I’VE tried a scratch remover and paint renovator on some scratches in my car’s paint, but they are still visible. Is there anything else I can do before taking it to the bodyshop?

Bob Carter, E-mail

THE easiest option is to get a SMART repair professional to look at it. They can respray areas to get them looking as new. A detailer could also help. You could try using a polisher and compounds, but mistakes can be expensive to put right, so practise on a scrap panel first.

Ideas to keep cabin clean

I USE my car for work as a maintenance engineer, so am often dirty when I get in it to drive home. Will a fabric protector keep my upholstery clean? IT’S hard to tell without knowing how dirty you get. Our favourite protector is Gyeon Q2 Fabric Coat (www.ultimatefinish.co.uk). Another option might be rubber mats and seat covers. Our pick of mats is Ring’s Durashield, which can be cut to shape. For covers look at waterproof designs, like those from the Roof Box Company.