In general, the size of the engine makes any engine repairs quite difficult due to lack of space in the engine bay, major engine repairs can be expensive as a result.
Head gasket blown at 90000 miles, I have a feeling that the turbo puts a bit too much strain on the engine, causing premature failure.
The clutch has been very heavy ever since the car was purchased, although the clutch does not slip gear changes become very difficult as the clutch does not disengage properly. It is important to change the clutch early as the synchromesh in the gearbox is made of a soft metal and can be damaged easily by a bad clutch.
General maintenance of the glow plugs will enhance the life of the engine, the engine will start with two glow plugs not working, however this will cause excess wear to the cylinders with failed glow plugs.
The water in fuel light can become annoying as the car accumulates water in the fuel filter, this may be fixed very easily by draining the fuel from the filter, opening the filter housing, removing the filter and cleaning out the housing thoroughly before installing a new fuel filter.
This is a good car which is fast, cheap to run and generally reliable.
The car looks good and drives well.
The best point about the car is that is is very cheap to insure.
"Head gasket blown at 90000 miles, I have a feeling that the turbo puts a bit too much strain on the engine, causing premature failure."
Mines still going strong at 153000 miles!
Original clutch, exhaust, shocks, no oil burning whatsoever.
One reliable car.
Note: A Comments RSS Feed is available. New comments appear in the Members Area before the main site