Quote Originally Posted by darknoodles View Post
I know i may be pedantic....But seeing the RPM arrow bounce up and down wildly just isn't very comforting.

What is the ECU and how can it be reset (is it a mechanic job) ?
ECU, the computer that controls all the engine stuff. Reset by disconnecting battery terminal, wait 10 min, reconnect battery terminal. google on how to do it, theres plenty of info around.

Good idea i will give the manual mode a try. But if the transmission is being "confused" as you say, is there anything i (or a mechanic visit) can do to improve it ?
Nope, reset ECU as per above, then it might reset the drive by wire memery from the previous owner. The Euro's got electronic throttle (aka: theres a lag), so you'd probably better off beng more "sure footed" when it comes to acclerating.

It is not deafening loud...but clearly audiable when it does occur. Can't tell if it is the sound of pistons. I'll definitely keep the pulley belt in mind. Any other suggestions, considering the other things i've mentioned ?
nope, i'm putting the money on the pulley belt.

Yes i will continue to run atleast 95 Octane in the future. The only reason i used 98 Octane in the last 3 weeks was to see if the above symptoms would disappear, which none of them did...
Give the car an oil change.

Always give allowance for major service (or at least an oil change) when buying a second hand vehicle.