BUYING A CAR

Things to consider:

• Power assisted steering - this has got to be a high priority. Even people with mild symptoms of RSI would probably feel a benefit. However, some makes or models can still have heavy steering even with PAS. If this is the case it should be possible to have the steering lightened; specialist firms can do this (In Ireland try - Motability Ireland Ltd., Phone: (01) 835 -- 9173). Maybe also consider a steering wheel cover to help with grip (from most motor accessory shops).
• Automatic gearbox - apart from the cost, choosing an automatic gearbox is usually a matter of preference. It does take a strain off the hands though.
• Many models now have height adjustable steering wheel's. Others also offer a tilt adjustment.
• Seat comfort is also very important. Some car models also come with height and tilt adjustments for the seats, as well as the normal leg room and back rest settings. Usually bigger cars have more comfortable seats.
• You might find electric windows, central locking and other optional extras worth going for, although they may be only available on higher spec models.
• Check for things like ease of getting in and out (especially in tight parking spaces), how easy the other controls are to use (like boot, doors and locks).
• If re-fuelling is a problem for your hands there is a device that holds the petrol pump trigger in place. Called the Easifuel, price 1.99. Telephone number 020 7582 1117.

Rover Diesel 218i (1990). "It has power steering, central locking and electric windows and wing mirrors. It's only problem is it has an ordinary gearbox which I would prefer to be automatic. The switch for the window on the driver's side has a setting which allows you to just push once and the window rolls down the whole way which is great for getting tickets for parking etc or talking to people."

Astra (1985) 1.3 Manual. "Nice to drive and fairly comfortable (for me as I'm tall). Steering okay but needed a lot of wheel turning when manoeuvring. Gears fairly easy to use and well positioned for me. Window winders stiff to operate."

Astra (1988) "...which we are just about to junk which I used to love driving. It was quite heavy to steer round tight corners and to manoeuvre but very nippy. This had an ordinary gear box and windows."

Honda Civic (1995) 1.3. "Steering very light and height adjustable. Manual gearbox a bit of a reach with a fairly firm feel. The driving position is unusually low down. Getting in and out can be difficult and you will have to put pressure on your hands to lift yourself out. The seat is comfortable but a taller person may not have enough thigh support."

Golf TDi 1.9 (1998) Auto. "Very good (firm) seats with full adjustment. Comfortable, roomy and nice to drive but power steering heavy. Electric windows, central locking etc."

Volvo 440 (1993) model "...(before that a 360) and I find the seats that Volvo make very comfortable (I have had RSI in my arm which has affected my shoulder and back - for 10 years now) - Over a long distance it is not too bad (I tend to only drive long distances on an infrequent basis). My partner has a Renault Laguna which I find unbearable to sit in for anything but a short journey (primarily due to the fact that the front seats are curved (moulded) at the edges and it causes tension in my shoulder/arm). All of the cars I have mentioned have power steering and have found them light to use (especially the Laguna -- although the car seats make it the worst to drive)."

"I bought a Citroen Saxo East Coast in April, and although it doesn't have any of the perks of power steering, electric windows etc, I bought it mostly for the comfort of the seat, but the decent price was very influential though!"