Gasman

Hi - Mk 1 2.3l Auto Ghia X. Been sat on the drive not being used for a while. The battery was flat and somehow (don't ask!), when we went to jump start it, the red & black leads were briefly crossed! Anyway, started first turn and all seemed fine, except that the following weren't working: Radio Central Locking Indicators Interior Lights Boot lock I checked the main fuses and the 10 amp radio fuse had blown. Replaced and radio works fine again. But does anyone have any ideas what might be causing the other problems? Could it be another fuse? Are they related in anyway? Is it just coincidence? Especially, why would the boot not open? Even with the key in the lock, or using the internal locking / unlocking, it doesn't seem to want to unlock and open. Any thoughts / advice / pointers much appreciated! PS - The front windows don't work either - but, haven't for a while. Almost certainly a door gaiter wiring issue - but do they need to work for an MOT? Thanks.

Hi - Just thought I'd make my question a bit clearer! We're thinking about a 2002-2005 / 30-70,000 miles Galaxy/Sharan/Alhambra Are there any particular models or specs we should either prioritise or aim to avoid? I'm thinking the 1.9 diesel is a better bet than any of the petrol models - is that correct? Or are the petrol models worth considering too? Any extras etc that are must haves or more troube than they're worth? Thanks!

Been thinking about this and had some further thoughts: Does the main door lock issue sound like it could just need a new back plate / spring repair kit? If so, I suppose I could: Buy and fit a repair kit:

Oh - just because current model is Ghia, doesn't mean next model must be top spec. The car is not our main long distance car, but is used mainly for school runs, shopping etc by my wife. So, remote locking, a reasonable stereo/CD, electric front windows would probably be a good start. Things like cruise control are unlikely to get used. Thanks

Hi Despite various issues with our current Galaxy, we're thinking about upgrading slightly. Current model is V reg, Mk1 2.3 Auto Ghia (or maybe Ghia X - depends which bit of paper I read). Looking to spend as little as possible, but to make a significant upgrade. We like the practicality of the Galaxy, but would look at other makes etc. But need 7 seats and some boot. Current thinking is probably a Mk2 Galaxy / Sharan / Alhambra 1.9 Tdi. Is there any great difference between the makes, or is it more a question of finding a good condition and spec one at the right price? Are there any things to either watch out for, or that are must haves etc? Thanks for any thoughts / suggestions you may have!

Hmmm! OK, some valid points! The new lock set would come with two keys, but I only have one for the ignition. I was trying to avoid, or at least postpone the cost of getting an extra key either programmed or even cloned. Some more detail on the key problems: Passenger door barrel has completely disintegrated. There is just a big hole there. Drivers door lock is very temperamental, feels rough and sometimes grabs the key and only lets go after lots of 'jiggling'. Remote key died some years ago after being repeatedly given to (then) toddler to play with (don't ask). It also 'lost' it's transponder. So, we're currently using the boot lock for all locking / unlocking and I was thinking of buying a 'complete lock set'. For about £225 inc VAT and delivery, I would get: 2 new handles and locks 1 new boot lock 1 new ignition 2 new keys - 1 remote, 1 standard + a plastic emergency key. I was then planning to swap the door and boot locks, but leave the ignition. I was then going to use the blade from my old remote key, on the new remote, keeping the new remote blade as an emergency spare. I'd then have two keys to unlock the car (the new standard key and the new remote - using the remote function) and two keys for the ignition (the old standard key and the new remote - using the old blade). But, I'd still only have one transponder - hence my idea of sticking the transponder to the ignition barrel. Security is not a big concern. But invalidating the insurance might be more of an issue. Any thoughts or suggestions would be gratefully received. I did think about just changing the internals of the locks but have been unable to get much sense from the Ford parts departments I've spoken to, who all seem to claim problems with locks are almost unheard of, hence why they don't know much about the parts options! They obviously don't read here! I have been quoted £75 for a 'complete vehicle emergency lock set', but they couldn't tell me what that included, how many keys or what types of key. I've also got random automatic window opening issues - but I'll have a look for other posts on that before posting a separate question if I'm still looking for advice. Many thanks

Hi We have a Mk1 Galaxy with various key issues. I'm thinking of buying a complete new lockset, but that will mean reprogramming the PATS system for the new keys. BUT - what if I just remove the transponder from my existing key and glue it to the car somewhere near to the ignition barrel? Will this then work with any keys that fit the barrel, without having to have them individually programmed? I realise this will mean that the PATS system won't be effective, but I'm prepared to live with that. Thanks