1996 Vauxhall Astra CDX Estate 1.6 16v from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Running costs are high due to constant repairs, but when running, a good work horse
Faults:
Have had continual problems with this car. In particular I have had 3 new EGR valves. The first EGR valve I had replaced lasted only a few weeks then it was replaced again free of charge. Now 15 months later it needs yet another EGR valve at a cost of £327 fitted.
I am totally dismayed by the reliability, it is a shame because the card is well designed inside and has lots of boot space.
General Comments:
The car is comfortable to drive.
Loads of boot space and nice and wide.
The mechanical build quality is poor and unreliable.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 1st October, 2002
10th Sep 2002, 15:00
Use a mobile mechanic or independent for the belt change. It will cost you about half that! If it's the ECOTEC engine, the problem is not the belt, but the tensioner which breaks up and causes the belt to jump or fall off altogether! This should be replaced at the same time as the belt.
Good luck!!
Dan.