Vauxhall Vectra Hatchback 1.8 LS 5d (1997/R) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Cost £4000 from a dealer, which seemed OK for the comfort and spec, but faults and fast depreciation have been disastrous.
Costs
Has cost us £3800 in less than 3 years.
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On the road
Driving
Copes well with long journeys. Speakers and heater work well, but the radio picks up interference from the engine and the rear demister.
Performance
Front end seems light and there is a tendency to wheel spin easily. Does not pull that well for its engine size, though this may be a result of its dire service history. Cruises OK on motorway.
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Living with it
Reliability
OK to drive but way too many faults both big and niggly
Image
I think it looks OK but I'd rather have a well built reliable car. I think we'll be buying Japanese next time.
Comfort
Roomy, but lumbar support on seats could be better.
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Security and Service
Security
Good, but who in their right mind would steal one?
Service
Took 4 visits + an angry letter to Vauxhall garage to get engine management light to go out + idle problems fixed. Servicing expensive, always includes new wiper blades but does not fix recurring faults.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
All the problems your reviewers list and more. Two cam belts, water pump bearings, valves all got damaged when cam belt went, sensors, gaskets, EMS light staying on, idling problem with high revs when stationary.
Other
Handbrake constantly needs tightening and does not grip till the very last click. Water leaked into boot from wiper seal, fixed but now smell won't go. Driver's window has never closed properly, electrics iffy (14 bulbs replaced so far, trip/odometer bulb
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
No