1995 Opel Tigra Reviews - Page 2 of 2

Power locks failed, speedometer went dead, oil pump gasket blew, airbag problem, engine would switch off (even while driving!) due to fuel injection relay, recalled twice to change cam-belts and tensioner. all this in the first year and all covered by warranty. after that nothing for 2 years then secondary air injection blew, ripped it out no need for it. then all OK for another 4 years. this year (2004) cooling system problems, lines had to be replaced and the radiator cost 250 euro. vibrating brake pedal and steering column while braking changed front disk brakes and pads, but problem still insisted took it back to the dealer and got corrected (don't know how) cost 300 euro. leaks in tailgate when it rains hard. exhaust has been changed 3 times in all these years, have noticed a ticking sound lately coming from somewhere inside the dash board, but not very annoying.

The car is great, it still turns heads after all these years. road handling is very good suspension is a little tight, room in cabin is satisfactory. no noise from cabin, interior quality is very good. I have been very sentimentally attached to my tigra, even if I got a new car I would think twice about giving it away. I read about all the problems the tigra's have, but mine did not have that many, I have no sunroof or ABS or air conditioning.

Water started coming in from the tail gate drain system. All the back seats where getting filled with water and the seat belt metal sections got rusty.

I love the car's shape.. it is very nice, but sometimes I ask if it's really worth the money.

Cam belt tensioner failed at 30,000 miles, new engine fitted for free by Opel.

Differential bearings failed at 45,000, I fitted a secondhand gearbox from a Corsa GSi.

AGR valve for emission control is sticking, replaced with a new one.

ABS light stays on, but do not know the cause.

Like most people I love the car despite its faults.

Oil pump gasket had to be replaced.

Condensation in the headlights.

Some electrical problems (the engine gets an engine failure light warning and the engine shuts down, after few minutes it's all okay again!)

Nice car, but seems to have a lot of problems.

The timing belt and rollers had to be changed after 18k miles because of a manufacturing stage defect. Change made for free.

Cold starts not always perfect. Petrol additive necessary.

Brakes, tyres and fuel filter demand routine inspection.

Paint - especially bonnet paint - chips easily.

Looks are its biggest asset; dare I say it will get noticed before other much more luxurious or sporty coupes.

Car is rather quick for its engine capacity, offers good road holding.

There are several factory supplied engine modifications to enhance performance. Fuel regulator turns performance factors onto a new page.

The only thing I dislike is that it's an unbearable heat absorber in the summer. If you want one air-con is a must.