Newbie777

10 hours ago, Boomer54 said:

Actually, what I take from all that is despite my feelings for some parts of this digital world how wonderful are some other parts. Once upon a time you would just never have been able to research and resolve your problem like this. Well done old son. Cap off to you.

Thanks Mate,

my middle name is 'never give up'. You need to have a certain amount of patience and deep wallets as not if but when!

19 hours ago, JamesIS220 said:

Sorry to hear of your car issues, but at least know what's wrong.

Picture is very James Bond!!

Thank you. 

Yes I know the fault now, bout only a matter of time after the next one  oh well the joy of owning a big German car! LOL

HI Malc,

I agree they make the best appliances and they last. but not everyone can afford them.

I totally agree, there are other makes and Miele are brilliant quality.

So quite a few to choose from and suit all budgets.

Currys stock Dyson and Shark, not sure if they stock Miele and other brands, but definely go, see and try out first.

10 hours ago, b4u2 said:

Hi, I'm looking for a very powerful cordless vacuum cleaner for my car?

Please can you recommend something good to me

Hello,

Happy New Year.

I am a Dyson man and have everything Dyson at home. Fans. Heaters. Vacuums. Hairdryers etc.

I know a lot about Dyson handhelds.(vacuums), all models and what they or can't do.

The v8 model is about £230 and is quite light and will give you about 30 minutes in normal mode (does not sound much but will cover quite a few rooms) and 5 minutes in boost mode (not very effective. Ssles pitch) and the Dyson recharge will be  about 2 to 3 hours to fully charge, it is light, but suction is quite light and you like the boost mode but constant use will prematurely age the Battery and also after 5 mins you need to charge for 3 hours!

There are other models in the V range and they get heavier, bigger bins. have better Battery life., better suction but costs a lot more so if you look at the v15 model costs around £600, you get 75 min normal Battery. 9 mins max Battery sand. 45 mins medium power. You can see the Battery life on the digital screen.  The charging time is 3 hours plus full charge. But can buy and extra click in batteriy if needed.

If you are after a corded vacuum. I would recommend a Little Henry Cylinder vacuum.

What do I use? The v15. For the car and house, I also bought a seperate long flexible hose attachment and that helps in the car.

I also have a super light v6 (now discontinued) on first floor and it is easy to use and very light (use in bedrooms)

Hope this help, DM if need more info. Thanks.

On 1/1/2024 at 7:11 PM, Malc1 said:

So sorry to hear your bad news Niaz 

Good luck and Best Wishes 

Malc 

I def won’t be getting a Bentley now …… learning something new here from you most days 

All sorted for now. Done another article, very frustrating!

Hello,

Sorry not Lexus related, but thought I post to let you guys know how bad it can be with other prestigious marques.

Yesterday my Bentley Continental GT, which was all fine, developed a steering fault after I parked up. The message on the dash was steering malfunction see dealership. Annoyingly, I could not start the car, or even put it into Neutral.

RAC guy came out checked everything including Battery (new 1 week old)  fuses, no joy.

As there is no power to the ignition he could not read fault codes, worst bit I  was blocking my neighbours car and drive.

Today a sub contractor for RAC brought a big trailer and picked up my car and placed it on my drive, very scary but comical at the same time!

I did some research and I think it is the steering column control module, located under the steering wheel at fault. This also annoyingly sends a signal to immobiliser as if car is being stolen, so everything shuts down!

It affects Porsches, VW Tourag, Audi A8. All the same group.

I found out that the module can be fixed (some chips replaced on the circuit board) and the guy is in London.

However, I would need to get someone to strip the steering wheel and dash to get the module out. So arranged for a mechanic/auto electrician to do this later in the week.

So all bad news, however..

Researched more on the Internet and came across an interesting read on pistonheads.

A guy suggested. Using the VCDS (vag com ond scanner),which I have, keeping the key in ignition and turned at the same time go to electronics part, manually select the auto start area and it will eventually show some faults. Click on clear faults.

I did this with key turned and eventually saw the faults and after a few attempts of clearing code (where nothing happened) eventually it worked, guess what?  Thecar starts and everything works!

Will still get control module fixed, but who would have known this special procedure?

Very happy got this far, but this what to expect when you buy luxury German cars,not all what they seem

27 minutes ago, Malc1 said:

So sorry to hear your bad news Niaz 

Good luck and Best Wishes 

Malc 

I def won’t be getting a Bentley now …… learning something new here from you most days 

Thanks Malc,

It is expected, actually.

I laugh when people say German Engineering, it is more not if it will break but when on many common or simple parts.

The Bentley is a big VW and there are many transferable parts from VW Phaeton, but Bentley do not want the common person like me working on their car. Very nsulting on parts when you peel back the Bentley label to see VW underneath!

Anyway let's remain positive, it is only a car and we all look forward to a great year.

3 hours ago, Newbie777 said:

Guys bad news not a good start for me.

The Bentley steering wheel is locked, will not budge and on the main road blocking my neighbours drive!

As Lexus owners you do not face the following..

Will not go into ignition, so cannot check faults, checked the two Sreering module fuses, ok.Main battery replaced last week. Starter battery us also fine.

To me it sounds like the steering lock module which is a logic board is faulty, waiting for RAC to come out!!

Rac guy really tried, fuse Battery etc, but its no good

Saying steering wheel module ( like I suggested,) just waiting for the big trailer now to come and somehow get my car onto my drive

Next job, monile auto electrician and  module to be fixed or if not take out and sent to London to be sortedf 

This guys is definitely the case of the beautiful wife (Lexus) and the mistress (Bentley) 

The wife may not be as pretty (no disrespect.  generalising) but trusted and dependable. While the mistress may look good, but when it matters what a let down.lol

Happy New Year!!

Guys bad news not a good start for me.

The Bentley steering wheel is locked, will not budge and on the main road blocking my neighbours drive!

As Lexus owners you do not face the following..

Will not go into ignition, so cannot check faults, checked the two Sreering module fuses, ok.Main Battery replaced last week. Starter Battery us also fine.

To me it sounds like the steering lock module which is a logic board is faulty, waiting for RAC to come out!!

4 hours ago, Spottedlaurel said:

Interesting question.

My daily driver RX replaced an Avensis estate. The latter was a 1.8 petrol and just didn't feel special enough to justify its cost, that really hit home when travelling 4-up around France on holiday. The RX fully met my expectations and I've now had it for almost five years, with plans to keep it for at least that long again. Unfortunately the theft/insurance issues with the 4th gen RX have meant that isn't something I'm keen to move onto as a replacement, and the new model is somewhat out of my price range at present (the money is better going into my pension that to Lexus). I like big, Japanese estates and there is sadly very little choice nowadays - I considered Mazda 6 and Subaru Outback, but I doubt either would have the feel of the RX and I wouldn't have kept them for so long.

Both of the LS400s were cheap, opportune purchases that didn't replace anything, they ended up being additions to my fleet. The second, current one I kept when I did a downsize a couple of years back and I let my beloved Toyota Camry estate go instead, so it could be said it replaced that.

In my motoring past I've had the likes of V6 Nissan 300Cs and straight-six Datsun/Nissan Laurels* plus various examples of Toyota/Honda/Mazda, and my preference is always for something Japanese and usually on the larger side for the relaxed feel.

 

*Still have one now.

You have had quite a few Japanese cars. All the ones I have had always been reliable. But not kept them long as I always wanted something German, not wise thinking at all

2 hours ago, Mincey said:

Back in 1999 before buying my first IS200, I was also considering an Accord Type R and an Impreza Turbo. Common sense prevailed and I've not been outside Lexus since.

Good thinking, you must saved quite a money and stress by making the right choice.

1 hour ago, KentColin said:

I had  4 Skodas before my current UX. 1st was a basic 1.2 Fabia,  next was a Fabia Vrs diesel which was a fantastic car, followed by a petrol Vrs which was really quick but used a fair bit of oil. Lastly was a  2017 Yeti with all the extras on it. That was a great car. They still hold their value really well 

My son has a Skoda Superb, Brill car very spacious and just like any other VW/Audi.

I think the Yeti is fantastic too, at one time there was a huge waiting list.

34 minutes ago, Spock66 said:

The Continental Flying Spur would be a more direct comparison.

Practicality is another factor where Lexus wins I imagine the rear is pretty cramped in the Bentley, but Bentley Continental certainly wins on the looks.

I was looking at the Spur before I bought the Lexus. The Spur has a softer ride and is only slightly slower than the GT.

Other bits I did not mention in the Bentley is the interior. All leather, metal or wood, onlu plastic on speaker grills.

Mine had the massage and heated seats in the front too. Otherwise everything is outdated.

Not much room in the back either. only suitable for kids.

29 minutes ago, Jgtcracer said:

I can imagine everything will become low displacement petrol turbo hybrids in the future….

 Never driven a Continental but they have certainly grown on me. I’d consider owning one if I wasn’t terrified of it breaking down. Particularly like the facelifts and newer shaped ones….

 How has reliability been??

No been as expected really. New rear caliper, one front suspension strut, leather roof lining was sagging now done. 3rd brake light disabled. Window actuator replaced. Tpms disabled, Large Battery replaced. Owned last 2 years done 5k miles. It has 625nhp. 850 NM torque etc done for smooth running. Driven every few days so no warning light etc.

18 minutes ago, RadicalCoupe-Fuji said:

w12 ftw, they are endangered species, I imagine at some point in the near future the government will find ways to make it very difficult to own such a thing. 

I think the engines will be made up on tables.lol

12 minutes ago, ColinBarber said:

That must be the gross weight not the kerb weight?

Not sure which one. but read it somewhere

46 minutes ago, GMB said:

That's a surprise. I would have thought the Bentley would be heavier. But then again - the batteries.

I was shocked when I found out it was 2.8 tonnes and slightly dissapointed that it was not planted on the motorway with all that weight.

I hate 0 to 60 times anyway. Who really cares? 

Hello,

I am not an expert and so this my opinion only...

As I own both the Ls600hl and a Bentley Continrntal Gt, just tthought I would do a quick comparison  (yes I agree it is a bit unfair as the Bentley has two turbos).

So we are looking at the Lexus v8 (438bhp) and the Bentley W12 (550 bhp)

Weight the Lexus is 2.8 tonnes and the Bentley is 2.5 tonnes.

00-60 for the Lexus I would say 6.0s and Bentley 4.8s.

Torque I don't have at hand, but think the Bentley has more.

So performance the Bentley is the clear winner? NO, if we take the two turbos off the Bentley I would say it would be a draw, so Lexus are right by saying the LS600 can compete directly with a v12.

Also I would like to talk about real feel. Both cars are heavy barges and for me you don't feel you are doing fast speeds as they are so well insulated, especially the Lexus.

However. At 69mph or slightly above the Lexus feels floaty (even in sport mode) and the Bentley is very stable indeed.

Overtaking wise but cars are very very fast especially 50mph upwards.

Stopping, the Bentley has huge brakes and they feel much better than the regenerative ones on the Lexus.

Mpg the Lexus is 17 to 30 mpg and Bentley is 7 to 20mpg, so a big difference in town and motorway (and going to Europe and back).

So both cars are super luxury cars. One is made to tour Europe and back elegantly and the other is to take on the worlds finest luxury cars.

So what do I like.. In the Bentley  I love the power.  sound of the W12 and the tiptronic gearbox. In the Lexus I like the drive (lower speeds) and effortless acceleration.

They are two completely different cars,in the sense that the  Lexus is discrete and dependable. The Bentley is louder and has more presence and occasion 

I am a petrol head and love the W12, silky smooth but potent. The V8 aldo snarls but rarely.

But if it is one car and I want to  smie every time. then would have to be the Lexus! Can't stand waiting with a broken down car.

Hello,

Before you purchased your Lexus. What other car/s did you choose from and what was the reason/s they were no good

Mine were Rbage Rover Vogue SW (SDV8) reliability, running costs, security.

Bentley Flying Spur (w12) reliability, running costs, depreciation.

Audi A8L(4.2 tdi), purchase cost, hard to find one with good spec.

So I chose (wisely) and bought the Lexus LS600hl which also cost me only half my budget!! Happy days.

2 minutes ago, Boomer54 said:

🙂

And to you and yours also may your engines purr with good health and be free of advisories ensuring your prosperity. 🙂

Thank you Boomer54

Had to laugh, never had one for a car before. Thanks

My goodness. Not easy at all.I think it is clearly passion that comes first.

The issue with parts is a difficult one. Even for Lexus some parts I asked the dealer and thry said back order, which basically means they can't get it!

However, this is a risk, but there is an ever increasing supply of parts from the Middle East.

BTW I had the Legacy estate with the boxer engine, Brill car especially in the winter. 

Worked in Horsham, West Sussex and lived on a farm, sadly the field mice took a liking to the engine so much so they started chewing away some of the wires!

Hello,

Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year.

I also wish 2024 is a year of peace, good health and prosperity.

Best wishes 

Niaz

Hello,

I am not sure if this is still true.

I don't have an issue with anyone who has bought or owns a Japaneses imported car.

A few years back Japanese imports were low mileage cars and were sold at good price. The problem was higher insurance and sourcing of parts, which were not always available in the UK.

Just seeing adverts of some Japanese imports, with some of these not being mentioned as imports.

So what is the advice on buying Japanese imports regarding parts and insurance?Is it still true?

Also when I look at say the Ls600hl. I look for the  square rear number plate, mileage in km. and the spec list which sometimes can be LESS than the UK cars etc.

23 minutes ago, Boomer54 said:

The old adage capital rich income poor comes to mind. You don't actually have to even be income poor not to be able to support running a Bentley. Although looking at cars in the market including Bentleys it's a very frequent sight to see cars that have been owned by people who could obviously afford to buy them, but basically could not afford to maintain them properly. Autotrader is teeming with them.

I agree.. everything  becomes clear after purchase, the servicing,...12 spark plugs. 12 litres of 0w40 oil. Then tyres 275 35 20. Fuel etc, But by far the worst part is the reliability and getting  the parts, if you can source them for the older cars. finally no garage will help you if you mention the Bentley.

If you okay with all this, can drive the car on a regular basis throughout the yea. then chill and  enjoy the hand stitched leather, sublime performance and great driving  experience.