General Hello from a new owner

[Myusername]

Hello from a new Panda owner!

I've just purchased a 2006 1.2 dynamic, 81000 miles. A tidy little car, in need of some TLC. It's scary to drive but I think that's down to the ditchfinder tyres.

It appears to need a new thermostat as it runs too cool at times, and I'll have to arrange a timing belt change.

But overall I'm pleased with the car, an amazingly clever design.

I'd be grateful for any recommendations from the experts for spark plugs and oil.

 

[rmjbn1]

Hi, and welcome Good choice of car!
Here's the oil you'll need:
Engine: 10W-40 semi (2.8l) drain plug 12mm allen key
Transmission: 75W-80 to API GL4 or GL5 (1.65l) filler plug 12mm allen key (front of 'box) / drain plug 8mm allen key (rear of 'box)

I used Champion RA7YC spark plugs, any good quality brand like NGK, Bosch or Denso is fine. Iridium plugs seem to have a good reputation for lasting much longer.
You might need to check the size of yours as they changed from 14mm to 12mm some time in 2006. Most of the big spares shops will give you the correct choice based on your registration plate.

It's scary to drive but I think that's down to the ditchfinder tyres.

Oh? The handling is one of the things I like most about the Panda - much better than most small modern cars I've tried.

Grip is a bit limited by the skinny tyres and it bounces and leans quite a bit, but it's a lot of fun and shouldn't give you any nasty surprises.

Check your tyres are up to pressure and haven't gone bald on the shoulders - this can catch you out if you hit a mid-corner puddle.

How recent is the MOT? Any advisories for worn suspension/steering components?

Also have a look at the rear axle spring pans - they're famous for rusting.

 

[Myusername]

Thanks for info!?

It's getting new front tyres tomorrow. The trader I bought it from was refused an MOT twice on front suspension arms among other things, so it would appear they've had to be done, along with the brake repairs, which was why I was interested in the car, given the repairs required. So I got a nice fresh MOT with the work done by someone else.?

Probably why he was unwilling to budge on the price, but I rekoned it was worth it.

I will have to look at the thermostat though, as it's not quite right.

 

[rmjbn1]

Just thought I should add - they don't need any fancy oil for the engine, but I still prefer to go for a reputable brand. Mine has Comma 10W-40 semi as that's what my local motor factor stocks.

The 75W-80 transmission oil seems to be an unusual grade, nobody near me sells it. I got mine from Opie Oils here: https://www.opieoils.co.uk/c-670-75w-80-gear-oil.aspx

 

[DaveMcT]

The rear shocks do not last very long but are not expensive. If the handling really is "off" charging these will make a considerable difference. You can also check the state of the rear axle spring pans. A spray of chain saw bar oil thinned with white spirit makes a great anti rust coating that soaks into rusty surfaces. It gradually polymerises so wont leave a permanent greasy mess.

If the skinny tyres bother you, get some 14 inch steels to the same spec as the alloys used on higher trim Pandas. They will take 175 tyres but must have the correct offset so check up the forum and wheel vendors before rushing in.