Faults:

Ignition barrel needed to be replaced twice.

Disc brake rotors have needed to be replaced twice, originals too soft so replaced with harder aftermarket ones, no problems since.

EGR valve clogged constantly and has been replaced, with no more problems.

Timing belt changed 3 times already. Cam belt twice.

Plastic trim under front bumper torn off after a few months.

Interior plastic mouldings are starting to tear off... Drivers door handle pulled away from door... Front window winders snapped off.

Metallic paint now fading badly. (Car is kept garaged at home, but is in the full sun at work)

Ignition accessory module now needs replacing.

General Comments:

Very low running costs, if you don't take into account repairs. 10-12km/Litre.

For a 1.4L car it has some serious zip.

Steering wheel controls for the stereo are excellently placed, and not as "touchy" as some other cars.

This was a re-badged Opel; the original battery and some of the internals still had the Opel logo.

However bad the "what has gone wrong with your car" section is, I have driven it pretty hard for the last 7 years. I'm merely stating the things that have gone wrong. I really enjoy driving this car, and that is what keeps it in my garage, despite the numerous repairs.

Faults:

EGR valve causing rough running, similar to misfire - this is a common problem apparently. Simply fixed by fitting blanking plate.

Cam-belt making noises when purchased so replaced at 100,000kms instead of 120,000kms.

General Comments:

Car is very zippy and solidly built. Handles as well as a classic Mini.

Was one of the first XC's imported to NZ and features side airbags and active head restraints.

Less rattles than my brand new Holden Astra.

Faults:

Engine Management System replaced twice ($800) requiring full tow.

About to be towed for the 3rd time due to 1st and 2nd gear not working at all.

Oil cap comes loose every week resulting in oil spraying over engine.

Non-colour coded bumpers faded within 6 months.

Numerous minor electrical faults.

General Comments:

Handles well and has good fuel economy.

That's about it.

Faults:

Coil pack failed at 40,000kms.

Rear speaker vibrating - worse with bass.

Timing belt replaced at 50,000kms instead of the usual 100,000kms as with most cars.

Triple information display (dash clock etc.) illumination only lights up half the display.

Gear linkages worn out at 65,000kms.1st and 2nd gear hard to select.

Air conditioning system failed at 68,800kms. (not a fuse, still to be fixed.

Front spoiler (rubber) too low. This was ripped off in the first couple of months because it would bottom out on driveways.

Intermittent high idle speed (hot or cold).This occurred around the 40,000km mark with an idle speed of 2,500 rpm and happened about a dozen times then disappeared.

General Comments:

This car gives a good solid ride with great handling, comfort and excellent braking.

Economical at 7.5 L/100kms.

Very small boot.