Author Archives: Justin Smith

About Justin Smith

As the man at the helm of BreakerLink, it is no surprise that its Director, Justin Smith, has always had a keen interest in cars, bikes and most things wheeled. Having spent over two decades in the car parts industry, Justin combines his passion that since 2002, has successfully united those looking for new and used car parts with the breaker that supplies them. Follow Justin on LinkedIn.

BMW 1 Series common problems

BMW 1 Series

When it was launched in 2004, the BMW 1 Series took the mantle of the 3 Series as the manufacturer’s most economical car. As a result, these cars are rather well pursued on the desirability front, combining good looks with great driveability.

With a real sporty feel behind the wheel and the classic BMW styling, this is a great car that will keep its value for years. Even with the rear wheel drive set-up it manages to offer a consistent ride quality throughout its years. However, like all vehicles, it is not completely rattle-free and there are many known issues to watch out for when purchasing a second-hand model.

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Ford C-Max common problems

Ford C-Max

The Ford C-Max is a compact car that’s been rolling off the Ford production lines since 2003. Available as a standard five door model it has a simple front engine, front wheel drive system that’s great on the road and gives the car a good balance of fuel economy, space and handling.

Based on the Focus, the C-Max is a great car that holds its value nicely within the second-hand market. There are tons of spare Ford parts available and like many of the American manufacturer’s other models, it doesn’t suffer from too many faults. However, there are a few danger signs you should be aware of when looking at buying a second-hand model.

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Fiat 500 Common Problems

Fiat 500

This little nippy city run-around has gained popularity with a number of people over the past years. Its retro styling combined with its short chassis give it a winning mix that’s perfect for the city. Yes, we’re talking about the Fiat 500 with its pastel colours and distinctive headlights.

As with any car it is not immune to problems. So what are the most common faults that you’re likely to discover when you’re taking one of these character filled little cars on a test drive on the road to a potential second hand purchase?

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Honda Accord – Common Problems

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is a popular series of automobiles sold by the leading Japanese manufacturer on a world-wide basis. One of its most successful models, it is available in a huge number of variants including sedans, hatchbacks, coupes and estates. Its wide spread distribution has seen the car become a very good choice for second hand buyers – but if you are thinking of purchasing a used Accord, be aware of the following danger signs.

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Audi A4 Common Problems

Audi A4

The Audi A4 is a very well made car. There’s no getting round the fact that if you are looking for a compact business car that has some serious heritage in the famous A80, then you’re not going to be disappointed. Pop open the bonnet and there’s a host of streamlined German efficiency under the lid, which means that this is one car that suffers from very few faults.

However, we are constantly being asked for Audi parts for this stalwart of the range, so it’s not entirely without problems. If you are thinking of purchasing a second hand model, then be on the lookout for the following issues:

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BMW X3 Common Problems

BMW X3

SUVs and larger 4×4 cars have become incredibly popular over the last two decades and front and centre of this list is the BMW X3. A strong and stable vehicle that oozes power and German efficiency, if you want to make a statement on the road then this is a car that definitely demands a slice of attention.

You can pick up an X3 in good working order from a second hand BMW specialist or a used car trader, but you are unlikely to find one going cheap. With this vehicle demanding high prices, it’s always important to check for commonly occurring problems – so use our list to make sure you don’t get caught out.

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Volkswagen Bora – Common Problems

Side view of VW boraThinking of purchasing a VW Bora as a second hand car? These compact city cars are available as 4 door saloons and hatchbacks and are great for both fuel economy and space. Replacing the popular Vento in 1998, the vehicle has now been superseded by the Jetta in 2005.

As with many models of VW, this car was certainly built to last and is a good investment for anyone looking to maximise their investment in a second hand purchase. However, there are a number of common faults, which you should be aware of before handing over your money.

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How to Prepare Your Car for its MOT

MOT Logo

In 2015 nearly 40% of all cars failed their MOT, according to the DVSA. Many cars fail for simple reasons, which could have been checked and fixed by the owner before they dropped of their vehicle at the test centre.

Avoid wasting time and save yourself money with our simple guide that helps you prepare your car for its MOT. All you have to do is follow each section and we will give you some guidelines and tell you what to do if your vehicle isn’t up to the required standard.

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Test Driving a Used Car

Car and key in a dealership

You’ve saved up the money. You know what you want. You might have even done a little research into the makes and models that most appeal to your needs and inner motorist. Let’s face it – buying a used car is a little bit exciting. But it can be stressful too.

Last thing you want to do is waste any hard-earned cash on a good-looking jalopy that turns out to be a right old pile of rust and bolts beneath the bonnet. So, you’ve scoured the papers and have visited a couple of dealer’s yards. Now for that moment of truth. It’s the test drive – and what should you be looking out for?

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