MikeTheThinker

I have a full set of VRS seats if that's of any interest?

Pardon me if you've already covered this but could there be two sources of noise which are confusing the other? A failing wheel bearing would produce a running hum or groan which is engine independent and only varies with roadspeed, whereas a worn belt would produce a noise which was engine speed dependent.

My archeological expedition/dig into my parents' home en route to getting it sold has arrived at the garage, wherein I have discovered two suitcases full of old Motor Sport magazines in near-perfect order. The question now is - what do I do with them? They're not really of interest to me or my friends locally and I'm reluctant to recycle them if someone can use them. Anyone have any (polite and anatomically possible) suggestions, please?

Managed to swap the numbers :( Fixed now. Ta for the heads-up.

According to Mr Haynes it's 40 Nm / 30 lbft for the Octy 2.

I suspect you'll find the bolts aren't 6-point Torx but 12-point XZN (also known as triple square) which are often used by VAG for larger or higher torque fasteners. Using a Torx bit _may_ remove an XZN bolt but will most likely chew up the head and make it unuseable. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_screw_drives#Triple-square_(XZN) Amtech does a cheap set - OK if you don't abuse the bits and don't want to use them daily. Euro offers them for 9 squid but I'm sure a quick Google{tm} will provide other offers.

Can't find a separate part number for the circlip but you may be able to find one via Googling{tm}. I put the post below together to help identify Octy 2 wheels and parts so it should help you confirm your wheels and wheel cap: What model year is your car?

This centre cap (55mm dia)? Or this one (50mm)?

Can you be a bit more specific? Are you talking about wheel centre caps?

The parts diagram for a 2007 Octy underbody trims is HERE, but I can't make it match exactly to your piccy? As far as I can see the trims are mounted by through screws going to brackets welded to the car body and using speednuts.

The "roaring" noise sounds like air intake roar - is that what you're hearing?

Have you checked the lobes on the camshaft for wear?

Interesting juxtaposition of "Summer house" and "blanket of snow"

The dealer is trying a standard "shuffle the deck whilst your attention is elsewhere" move and hoping you'll bite once he's stacked the deck against you. Also FYI in case you weren't aware he will make a commission on a finance deal if he sells you one. I suggest you do the following - IF the bike is the one you want and the deal is acceptable: Email him spelling out your offer using lLanguage such as this: "I confirm I am interested in buying motorcycle XXX XXXX for £xxx in cash / transfer / on finance (specify the terms) subject to the following: - what exactly is included (MoT, tyres, luggage, service - and which type, anything else) - what conditions apply to the transaction (completion period, delivery etc,) Please can you confirm your agreement within 48 hours in writing (email is acceptable) as I have other alternatives to consider." If you're part-exing you need to be very careful about the agreed condition of your part-ex or he's likely to try to ding you on that as well.

Parts diagrams for 2007 Octy 2 bumper options for standard saloon & estate, VRS saloon and estate and Scout. The main bumper cover (item 1 plus variants) has a different part number root for saloon (1z5) and estate (1z9) which makes me think the parts are different. The covers for the estate versions (combi) only differ as far as I understand in terms of their fiddly bits (such as reflectors and the side trims on the Scout) and the presence or absence of parking sensor cutouts.

Nice to see an Octy (or Laura) so well looked after.

The parts diagram with part numbers for a RHD 2002 Octavia is HERE, which may help you to understand what is happening.

Where one can play with the motorbikes

You can look up PR (factory option) codes on this website.

Also, do try a trip in the Octy with a window or windows open to keep you breathing fresh air.

Does it affect others who are in the car and does it happen if you drive with the window open?

Has anyone checked the rear wheel bearings?

Welcome Whereabouts in Cheshire? I'm on The Wirral at the moment and it's been a lovely sunny day with mild temperatures (for a change).

Nice! Top Gear when it was worth watching

I'm still waiting on a 3-months old delivery from aliexpress - less than 10 squid - and no available tracking information.