2002 Vauxhall Astra SXi review from UK and Ireland

Front passenger seat trim missing from around seat belt anchorage. The dealership could not understand how the car passed pre-delivery inspection. This trim was ordered and fitted 7 days later- free of charge.

Rear disc brakes are making a low frequency rubbing noise when driving forward and cornering at low to moderate speeds without application of the brakes. The sound also appears to be louder when reversing. Firstly at a mileage of 155 the dealer adjusted the hand brake cable and stated that the handbrake return springs need replacing, as this was a fix available from the manufacturer. Only problem is that the springs are not available yet. This noise was still apparent and at 205 miles I took the car back to the dealer. They placed the car on the ramps inspected the rear brakes, then removed the disk pads to groove and feather them. This cured the noise temporarily, but it returned 50 miles later. The car was returned to dealer at 439 miles and they stated that new return springs were on order. The car has now completed 900 miles and the noise is still there, I am still waiting to have the new springs fitted.

The car is an excellent runner with high performance and low insurance.

The road handling is excellent, and the Michelin tyres on the 16inch alloys give it a very crisp and responsive feel. It is very sure-footed even on wet roads.

The interior is very comfortable and fairly appealing to the eye.

Does any body else have brake problems with the rear disc brakes? is there a permanent fix yet!.