diesel auto box, problems to look out for, towing, maintainance.

[MrBen]

Hello chaps. I have seen a galaxy which has interested me, as it only has 65k on clock. Its an auto 1.9d ghia 2005. chap wants Ã,£1800 for it, which seems alot for such an old car. I would not normally go for an auto, as iv never seen one for sale which has high miles, making me think that the auto boxes pack up around a certain milage. My questions are: are autos ok to tow a caravan with, what should i look for in regards to the auto box, and what is the best way to maintain an auto box? i'm assuming changing the fluid is all you can do? Thanks in advance gents.

[Mirez]

That's actually a VERY good price for a 65k Mk2. They are creeping back up now as the Mk3 that replaced it 56> have the Ford fuel rail issues (same as the Mondeo) and just cost way to much to repair.

As for the auto they are pretty good. It's the older style 'slush' box rather than a DSG style but will do high mileages if looked after. Oil changes are essential (same as all autos tbh) and then the only 'common' fail is down to sticky solonoids although they arent that bad to change. Brake/Reverse bands can also snap on the higher mileage cars, I stand to be corrected on this one bur making sure it comes to a compete stop before shifting to reverse seems to be the advice for preventing

[MrBen]

Ok thanks for info. It sold in the end, I just missed it. 
I now have an Alhambra 2004 tri. Going to have a crack at the timing belt!....

[SirDavidAlhambra]

I agree, these cars are the best u can get and are amazing for towing. The auto gearbox is good but can judder when changing down to first gear if itââ,¬â,,¢s cold and u brake hard. I just donââ,¬â,,¢t know why anyone would ever want any other type of car, I really donââ,¬â,,¢t. The Alhamb has it all.