Yesterday I did 'why warranty doesn't matter' and many of you asked me exactly how to advocate for a fair go at the dealership, if your car is defective and you're not getting the support you need (or the support you think you need). This report is the roadmap to achieving that - or at least how I think you should play it. OLIGHT DISCOUNT! (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3zF5hCQ 12% off: Use code AEJC Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?...
Sep 14, 2021•37 min
Why warranty doesn't matter in 2021 and beyond. I'll tell you why and explain how customer support is the paramount buying criteria when it comes to aftersales service. There's a very good reason I name and shame the brands that treat consumers like rubbish, and why I celebrate those brands which do the right thing by you. OLIGHT DISCOUNT! (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3zF5hCQ 12% off: Use code AEJC Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?...
Sep 13, 2021•23 min
Which of these breeder busses is the best? If you need big load space, multiple child restraints and walk-in access for the extended family, these are the two best vehicles for that purpose - and they beat seven-seat SUVs hands-down. Let's discuss why they're the best tool for the job, starting with you... Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): https://autoexpert.com.au/contact AutoExpe...
Sep 11, 2021•29 min
Pre-orders for the upcoming Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series have surpassed 21,500 units, but Toyota plans to build only 5000 LandCruisers annually - that's four years of production. And that means, if you order a popular model, like the GR or Sahara, you could pay a deposit today, and not get your LandCruiser until 2024 or 2025... Details emerged from BestCarWeb in Japan recently - full details here, but you'll need to run Google Translate. And even then, it's only loosely in English. Link to the ...
Sep 10, 2021•13 min
These upstart Chinese challengers, bringing it to the Japanese and the South Koreans - the price is right - but that’s hardly everything. I get variations on this question all the time, so let's see how they stack up to the established mainstream brands... Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Welding fabrication squares: https://ozgeneralstore.com.au/store/w... Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): https://autoexpert.com....
Sep 07, 2021•18 min
How much engine power does it actually take to just drive down the road? And then, how much additional power do you require to tow your mighty caravan into the wild blue yonder? Let's crunch some numbers. Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Welding fabrication squares: https://ozgeneralstore.com.au/store/w... Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): https://autoexpert.com.au/contact AutoExpert discount roadside assistance p...
Sep 03, 2021•24 min
Here's the first of many reports exploring the depths of metalwork on the path to giving you your official doctorate in ghetto engineering, for the welders, boilermakers, backyard machinists and frustrated tinkerers among you. First, let's talk about the tools you'll need to do the job properly, without breaking into the kids' inheritance. AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi - 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent reporting,...
Sep 02, 2021•53 min
This is the ultimate deep-dive tech talk about using high tensile bolts, threads and nuts - perfect for anybody studying, or working in industry, automotive, parts, fabrication or just all-round nerds looking to learn during lockdown. AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi - 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Download the bolt manuals from NASA and Aja...
Aug 31, 2021•44 min
My very good friends at Volkswagen have teamed up with Australia’s premier antique bumper bar factory in beautiful, scenic Clayton, and they’ve made their outdated death-trap dual-cab even faster. As a discerning automotive consumer, one of the most valuable skills you should develop is to listen hard for what carmakers do not say in the brochure. AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent repo...
Aug 27, 2021•18 min
This episode is an attempt to answer a series of questions from Gary Sheppard, about modifying a 4WD vehicle including wagons and utes. He's waiting for his Mitsubishi Triton to arrive and meanwhile, he's watching far too much 4X4 modification porn which is all over YouTube. Here's how you sharpen your mind to deal with that influx of advertising, influence and pressure to spend your money... AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of ...
Aug 25, 2021•34 min
Responding to comments in my recent "Cracked!" report on poor installation of a towbar on a Ford Ranger and the consequences of hitching up a trailer. This is the full-fat university class on bolts and washers, and putting them together on a car. AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save thousands on any new car (Au...
Aug 24, 2021•31 min
What happens when an incompetent dealership service department and appalling customer service combine on a Ford Ranger's towbar after three years of ownership? You get a consumer left high and dry by Ford Australia, the dealer and unable to tow a trailer for their business. Here's what happened... AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.c...
Aug 23, 2021•21 min
AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): https://autoexpert.com.au/contact AutoExpert discount roadside assistance package: https://247roadservices.com.au/autoex... Did you like this report? You can help support the channel, securely via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-...
Aug 20, 2021•23 min
AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): https://autoexpert.com.au/contact AutoExpert discount roadside assistance package: https://247roadservices.com.au/autoex... Did you like this report? You can help support the channel, securely via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-...
Aug 19, 2021•32 min
This report is aimed at you if you are towing a heavy trailer (boat, caravan, etc., or you're contemplating getting started doing that. AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): https://autoexpert.com.au/contact AutoExpert discount roadside assistance package: https://247ro...
Aug 17, 2021•50 min
Using 4H to increase stability and traction. What are the consequences if you get this wrong? Specifically, a viewer asked if it's OK to use 4H on wet main roads, or unsealed roads. Essentially, I don't think it is, because it will increase driveline wear, and in extreme situations it might break something expensive, and also leave you stranded. AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent report...
Aug 13, 2021•17 min
Ford Everest Basecamp has a problem: Ford cannot get the roof rack load right. The manual says '100kg' but the vehicle is fitted with a Rhino Rack and Sunseeker Awning, and Rhino says you need to reduce the payload by 33% if you go off road. Pro Tip: On Rhino-world, 'off-road' means 'unsealed'. So, if you drive on a dirt road, you can only carry 37 kilos of stuff - once you crunch the numbers. Small problem: Ford's depiction of the vehicle clearly shows it carrying a load substantially higher th...
Aug 12, 2021•16 min
Today's 'unplugged' video is an attempt to get to the bottom of the best 4X4 dual cab ute for towing and families. I'm answering this question: "Hi mate, loved reading though all your articles. I'm currently looking to get out of my VW Transporter and into a ute. Work has changed and more towing looks to be in my future, as for the need for more than two seats with extra people on the way. Not looking for anything to really go off-road with, I have a 2002 Prado that I go offroad and up the beach...
Aug 10, 2021•18 min
How do you tell a story about cars that don’t exist, and may never? And what do you expect if you just put down a deposit on one? Here are the top five lessons I’ve learned from working through the biggest new car market inversion I’ve ever witnessed. Buying a car today is just not the same beast it was two years ago, when the dynamics were flipped, and oversupply flooded the market, making it a buyer's paradise. Here's what you need to know. AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https...
Aug 09, 2021•13 min
Isuzu Ute is intelligence testing its customers by seeing if you will pay full price for their mid-spec LS-U MU-X 4WD 'SUV', based on the D-Max ute. If you buy one, you fail the test. This is how the cake of corporate fiasco gets baked. It's either unprincipled or incompetent conduct. I am struggling to identify a more forgivable explanation. I detailed the price ramp-up in my previous report (and it has come to pass), listen here: https://anchor.fm/autoexpert/episodes/2022-Isuzu-MU-X-Will-the-9...
Aug 07, 2021•22 min
The all-new Hyundai Staria could be the best people mover in the market (according to Hyundai), so take that, Kia Carnival and Honda Odyssey. In this livestream with Q&A, I'll deep-dive into the product and give you exclusive access to a leaked, confidential dealer bulletin that's not meant to be in the public domain. Plus, I take your questions on Staria and everything else. AutoExpert Olight Discount (awesome torches) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) He...
Aug 06, 2021•1 hr 28 min
Toyota has just confirmed pricing and basic specs on two new flagship Landcruiser 300 models - the Landcruiser Sahara ZX & GR Sport. But if you had any plans to drive them away with any substantial change left over from about $150k, you'll probably be disappointed. AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save thous...
Aug 05, 2021•17 min
Volkswagen senior executives claim the new 2023 Amarok will be 100 per cent a Volkswagen, despite being co-developed by Ford, being built by Ford in a Ford factory, despite rolling on the Ford Ranger platform, and also (most probably) running the Ford Ranger powertrains... So, apart from those pesky details - the 2023 Amarok is definitely not a hastily-re-badged Ranger. AUTOEXPERT OLIGHT DISCOUNT (These are awesome.) https://bit.ly/3pA9nYi 12% off code: AEJC (exclusive of sale periods) Help supp...
Aug 03, 2021•17 min
The next Mitsubishi Triton (called the L200 in other markets) will look like a Triton, but it will be a Nissan Navara under the skin. The Navarafication of Triton is a disaster for Mitsubishi (and Triton aficionados - of which I am one) and in fact the Tritonification of Navara is a far superior concept with nothing but upside for Navara (not to mention Triton) - but never underestimate the gross stupidity of large organisations. Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: http...
Aug 02, 2021•20 min
If you are waiting at red lights with your foot on the clutch, poised to take off, with first gear selected, you are almost certainly shortening the life of your clutch - and maybe also blowing your engine. Two reasons for this. One is really good, and the other is even better. (Warning - this report contains actual physics, and basic metallurgy...) Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only)...
Aug 01, 2021•30 min
It's 91 RON petrol versus your engine - and the questionable ‘advice’ you might get from the dude in your service department. (Advice: probably the wrong word for something with such a distinctive smell.) Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): https://autoexpert.com.au/contact AutoExpert discount roadside assistance package: https://247roadservices.com.au/autoex... Did you like this rep...
Jul 30, 2021•21 min
SPECULATION: Kia looks almost certain to kill the Stinger at the end of 2022 - this has not been confirmed officially, but plenty of corroborating evidence exists to support the 'balance of probability' conclusion that the death of the Stinger will occur significantly earlier than the 2024 end date generally accepted as the long-term end of the Stinger's lifecycle. So, if you've always wanted one, now is the time to act. Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.p...
Jul 29, 2021•13 min
As Sydney enters another month of lockdown, let's talk about what that means for the battery in your car. Here's exactly what you can do to avoid the dead battery pandemic. Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save thousands on any new car (Australia-only): https://autoexpert.com.au/contact AutoExpert discount roadside assistance package: https://247roadservices.com.au/autoex... Did you like this report? You can help support the ch...
Jul 28, 2021•15 min
Hyundai will deploy 30 EXCIENT fuel cell trucks in California, by 2023, ahead of the Tesla Semi, which is invariably delayed. This is a clean air pilot programme supported by the California Air Resources Board and the California Energy Commission. Deployment of Hyundai EXCIENT fuel cell trucks in California comes off the back of the initial deployment of 46 EXCIENT trucks deployed in Switzerland, which is just the first wave of 1600 EXCIENT trucks in total to be deployed to Europe by 2025. Help ...
Jul 27, 2021•14 min
Isuzu is roughly three days out from launching the MY22 MU-X, but prices seem certain to rise by an incredible $9000. In this report, we'll discuss that, plus the key competitors, the relative merits of seven seat SUVs like this, which are derived from the utes in the same stables, and a major mistake I see SUV buyers make when they formulate a shortlist (and how you can avoid making it). Help support my independent reporting, securely, via Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=54778969 Save t...
Jul 26, 2021•20 min
