1990 Vauxhall Cavalier CDi review from UK and Ireland

Where do I start?

Corrosion to the rear arches, roof & all panels. Mostly all been professionally repaired to maintain a good appearance.

Numerous oil leaks from the engine, a frustrating problem caused by ageing gaskets.

Water pump went at 120k miles, replaced with new.

Failing idle control valve, replaced with new. Have since learnt that the old one could have been cleaned & refitted instead!

Leaking fuel tank replaced by new item.

Poor brakes, used to be very good, but the dealer has never been able to get them working terribly effectively again.

Sports box light flashed on & box went into limp mode, a fluid change cured it immediately.

Now at over 160k miles, the prior reasonable performance of the car isn't so hot anymore.

Terribly poor dealer service (have tried all the Vx dealers in my area), Vauxhall really need to make improvements in this area... they're probably going to lose me as a good customer anyway.

Generally been very happy throughout ownership, this car has been in my family for over 10 years now & has been treated like a family pet.

Only lately have I decided a change is on the cards due to increasing regularity of repairs required & poor dealer service. An Audi is next I think.

Have spent over 5000 pounds on the car during ownership (crazy, I know) and have receipts for over 8000 pounds in total with full dealer history.

The car has never broken down, the engine or transmission have never failed, it has been ridiculously reliable and has travelled up & down the UK without fuss.

It is reasonably comfortable & well equipped for its age.

For me the car has been expensive to own as I'm very fussy about my cars, but the car actually looks better now than when I first acquired it!

Take care of a good Vauxhall & it will take care of you.