1996 Daewoo Espero CD review from Netherlands

Worn windshield wiper mechanics 66,000km

Alternator failed at 75.000km

Light switch failed five times in one year resulting in high beam always.

Rear springs broke at 97,000km

Compressor of air conditioning tore at 99.000km

belt tensioner continues rattling loudly, irreparable. Three attempts (front suspension must be removed for that...) at approx 100.000km

Lock of trunk broke at 102.000km

Front suspension struts worn. Replaced three times in one month... at 104.000km

Head gasket blew at 110.000km

Heater has a life of its own (cooling system de-aired three times, but no reliable heater yet)

Generally my conclusion must be that the Daewoo Espero is worn after 100,000km of normal use. That life span is far too short for a modern car.

First of all, I drive the car very cautiously. I drive medium distances. I maintain it well.

The car is cheap to buy, looks good, is luxurious and extremely spacious and comfortable. It drives like a Mercedes. The road holding is extraordinary. A car for long distances at medium speeds.

It is highly unreliable and therefore costly to maintain. The quality of some parts, also spare parts is very bad. Other parts are of very good quality (automatic gearbox, brakes, steering, interior and paint/rust prevention).

Generally my impression is that Daewoo tried to limit the costs too far. The heater capacity, the rear window defrost capacity, the capacity of the electric window motors, the capacity of the headlights and the capacity of the air conditioner are not sufficient.

The engine (a slightly modernised Opel/Vauxhall from 1981) is sluggish, but quiet. Fuel consumption is nevertheless only average. It blew out a head gasket despite my conservative and attentive driving style at only 100.000 km!!