1998 Vauxhall Vectra SRi 140 review from UK and Ireland

40K - Steering column fault after a few weeks of ownership, Vauxhall fitted a modified unit.

40K - Engine management light coming on intermittently, inlet manifold hose was faulty.

43K - No clutch at all, towed to the main dealer. Vauxhall said that hydraulic cylinder had burst and that seeing that this unit was in the gearbox (great design eh?) it would be a new clutch assembly as well because plate was soaked in fluid. First attempt at a bill was nearly £800, but after a lot of arguing we settled for £600.

44K - Steering joint had gone faulty again, after just 4,000 miles since the last one. Vauxhall dealer said it couldn't have done as they had a fitted modified unit, but eventually after 2 or 3 visits they changed it.

45K - Engine management light coming on intermittently again. This was diagnosed as the crankshaft sensor, £181 fitted (bargain).

46K - Engine management light coming on all the time. But it's OK cause this time it's the camshaft sensor, £161 but I got a £50 discount as I have had a few problems lately.

46K - Water and mould in the boot area, I have only just noticed this and upon looking closely it seems that most of the boot lid is rotten inside. I am so sick of it and cannot afford any Vauxhall repairs at the moment.

First MOT next month and I am scared.

What a load of crap this car has been.

I have covered just 6K in this car in 20 months and so far it's cost about £1000 (not including servicing).

I may have to buy a Ford! I can't afford a Beamer.