HELP! You ask me

0 Comments | Sunday Mirror, Jan 27, 2008 | by QUENTIN WILLSON

Q I WANT to buy a convertible before prices rise in summer. I have up to pounds 16,000 to spend, and the cars I have been looking at are BMW 3-Series, Mercedes CLK or Saab 9-3. Which would you recommend? - Amanda, Plymouth

A THESE days there's actually no seasonal difference in the price of convertibles. But it is worth waiting until you're absolutely ready to buy. Used prices will get a lot cheaper this year as the prestige market continues to weaken. The BM will hold its value longest, the Saab will feel more special, while the CLK is a genuine four-seater, and the most practical of the lot. pounds 16k buys an 03-plate 200K Elegance with 30k miles.

Q MY son owns an 02-reg MG TF which has only done 28,500 miles. A month ago the head gasket blew, so it was replaced, together with a service and tune-up, at a cost of pounds 530. Two weeks later, the gasket failed again, and the car was recovered to the same garage, who this time said the engine was "kippered". We can't believe they didn't notice the engine was on the way out when they fixed the gasket. What can we do? - Sally, email

A THE garage should have compression-tested the TF's engine, which would have revealed it was a dead duck. A new head gasket, a pounds 500 bill and a ruined engine is ridiculous. Demand a refund or an engine rebuild. Ask an engineer for a full inspection and a written opinion, and threaten the garage with legal action if your son's TF isn't repaired to your complete satisfaction.