Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (1991 - 1998) 1.6 GLS 5d Auto (1994/M) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I like cheap used cars

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

A good car overall, but because it was an automatic a definite old man image

Would you buy this car again and why?

No - EGR valve problems haunted me throughout ownership. Go to independent garages and you will be fine. Very poor security - joyriders wrote it off.

What are you likely to buy next?

A cheap used car

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£750

When did you buy the car?

July 2005

Did you get a good deal and why?

Bought it off a friend, had been kept in a garage since new and in absolutely mint condition

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Needed a bigger car to fit the surfboard in, cheap upgrade

What was the dealer like?

n/a

What's it like to drive?

Body roll around corners and roundabouts even at fairly low speeds. Suspension is very squishy! 1.6 engine is adequate on motorways

What's it like to park?

Fine, small dent in rear bumper after hitting a low wall

Have you had any problems with the car?

Power Steering Pump - just went to a scrapyard. Engine Management Light/EGR Valve - Don't get me started on that, ignored the engone light on the dashboard in the end. Managed to claim money back from vauxhall because they did unauthorised "problem solving tests" on my car whilst replacing the EGR valve.

What's most practical about your car?

Space and cheap spares, generally speaking

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

added remote central locking