1989 Vauxhall Cavalier Base 1.6 carb from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Excellent, reliable, low cost transport
Faults:
Rear brake pistons leaking brake fluid (onto the linings!!!)
Exhaust needed replacing.
One tyre.
CV boot split.
Rear dampers have started to rust and will need replacing before too long.
Has cost me around £150 so far but it's a lot better than my previous car!
General Comments:
I'm very pleased with my Cavalier. It's fairly comfortable on long journeys and easily does over 50mpg on runs if treated gently. The ride can get a bit harsh on poor surfaces, but the car handles nicely and is fun to drive. The engine is a bit noisy in lower gears but is very quiet at motorway speeds. The gearing is very high, and the gear ratios are widely spaced, which means the engine has to be worked hard to build up speed before changing gear. Despite its age, there is no rust on it anywhere - even on the underside.
One dislike (a very minor one!) is that when I brake hard or stop the car, petrol in the tank can be heard sloshing around.
I'll definitely have another Cavalier after this one - hopefully one with a 2 litre engine!!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 6th May, 2000
1st Nov 2001, 15:14
Update...
Now on 113,000 miles and still going strong. A few more problems though:
- Engine management light. Pain in the backside! Turned out to be water in a octane plug connector. Took months to diagnose!
- Front nearside wheel bearing needs to be replaced.
- Clutch is getting a bit vague but still works.
- Nearside rear shock failed. 2 new shocks needed.
- Cambelt snapped at 102,000 miles. No damage to the engine!
Still starts easily and returns high 40s mpg. Body still excellent for its age - hardly any rust.
Going to replace it soon though. Fancy a change!