1988 Vauxhall Cavalier L 1.6 petrol from UK and Ireland
Faults:
When I got it the rear shocks were done but this was quickly remedied by fitting a Spax lowered and uprated suspension kit.
GBox is noisy.
One or two rattles inside.
Repaired rust started to show through paintwork after about a year, although not severe and quickly covered up.
Had new starter fitted.
Dash bulbs blow regularly. (Heating controls only)
Strange problem with steering that no-one can seem to fix. When going over bumps and rough ground, steering feels really loose, as if something major has worn.
However, all joints etc are OK. Might be steering rack?
General Comments:
This car has had quite a history and I think it was a hire car. I am the 5th owner. The car has 110 000 miles on the clock and I fear that it may have been clocked at some time.
In all this car has been very reliable and my AA membership card has never been out my wallet.
Average servicing costs and brilliant fuel economy have persuaded this student to keep the beast!
A new gear box may be on the cards soon.
A set of 15ins alloy wheels and a quick paint touch up along with the lowered suspension and body colour bumpers have earned this car a reputation as a "Little white lie" due to the stock standard 1600 engine. Therefore I don't race!
CD player adds touch of comfort even though seats squeak.
On the whole, this is probably the best car I have owned.(3rd)
Thanks for listening.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 1st March, 1998
12th Mar 2001, 09:11
I own a 1600 Cavalier as well, same age and have the same problems with steering. Don't worry about it, it's just age.