1996 Vauxhall Vectra LS 1.6i from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Nice looking and comfortable but numerous and unaffordable repair costs
Faults:
Crankshaft gear worn - replacement cost £800.
EGR valve needed replacing - £260.
Washer fluid pump needed inline valve in the pipes (ironically, Vauxhall suggested a Ford valve).
Central locking not working on the passenger front door or petrol cap cover.
Engine management light permanently on but registers no code.
ABS main pump is on the way out which will be majorly expensive.
General Comments:
I drove this car from new as it was my ex company car - but all the problems above have happened since I bought it from the company when I came out of the company car scheme. It is one thing to drive a car without the responsibility of the running costs - and there were several problems with it before I owned it which I haven't included as its not relevant in this survey. But to have to deal with these in a young, relatively well looked after, regularly serviced vehicle is unacceptable to the average secondhand car buyer.
According to the mechanic, who has been fixing my various problems with the car, the problem is the packed engine compartment which is impossible to work in. Even relatively inexpensive jobs on other cars are expensive due to the extra time fiddling around. For example, the replacement of the gear to the crankshaft required the removal of the engine! Also, dealer only parts have boosted the fixing cost.
Generally OK looking and comfortable car - but watch out for higher mileage examples as they are likely to be a money pit.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 30th August, 2000
19th Jan 2001, 16:05
Thanks mate - nearly bought one of these as a taxi, until I read this, I'll look for something else.
Surprised that Vectras have had such problems, but that's why I have been looking at the owners opinions as they are going to be more honest than the local Vauxhall salesman.
They do look good though.....