Hi again
Thanks again to the provider of this site-it is very helpful when you have problems.It is also a bit daunting when you read through it as well!I do quite a high mileage on motorways in UK,France and Switzerland.Despite warnings from those in the know I bought one off Ebay!!! I didn't have much to spend but it seemed good value-153K Series 2.1TD.First trip was 1650 miles to France and back,loaded to the gunnels,first tankful averaged 46mpg,next one 49mpg!!This was not just motorway driving but a 1 hour Periphique traffic jam and some short local trips.The ride is great and you can fit loads in it!! Didn't use a drop of oil or any water on the trip.Runs at 70 degrees on the motorway and even in the traffice jam only went up to 90 degrees so the engine seems fine.
Hopefully I will be able to cure the cold starting problem.MOT is due in May which will be the clincher as to whether it stays or goes.I can do simple servicing and minor jobs but thats my limit.
Regards Rob

Congratulations Rob,

On getting about the most comfortable car made. I have had four now, the most reliable being the first Mk2 I bought with 244k on the clock, it hardly missed a beat in 50k miles. On the other hand, the first one, which was a K reg and only a couple of years old, was an absolute pig, mainly electrics. The one I have now had only covered 114k when I bought and with a new cam belt, so I thought I wouldn't have to do anything for a while, 5k later the water pump went + another cam belt of course then at 120k the head gasket failed, I have now replaced that (and another cam belt) and it runs as sweet as a nut, and everything works! I "should" get considerable mileage from it without further trouble. I have tried several other cars as replacements but nothing matches the 2.1td for economy and XMs in general for comfort. I think the head gasket problem was caused through lack of rust inhibitor and somewhat acid water, as it practically fell apart when I removed it, so will make sure it has plenty of good antifreeze in future. The first two tankfulls in this car covered well over 800 miles, best about 54mpg but tht was when we had a few days off and toured the west country and my old home Kent. It averages about 40mpg but I live in rural Dorset. Hope yours gives you long and faithfull service.

Peter.N.