1997 Vauxhall Astra Reviews - Page 4 of 4

The only problems that I have had are the 02 sensor has packed in, it measures the oxygen going to the cat.

I also blew the gear box, but the new one is pretty strong.

If I had the choice I would pick the older 16v engine over the newer Ecotec version. You get more performance and less problems. Still not to underate this car though, it packs a lot of punch and will beat a lot of other "performance cars!"

Not a lot, battery kept draining after a week, traced to the boot light staying on (no cost, removed bulb)!

Erm, that's it so far!

Doesn't feel like it's going to fall apart at the first sign of winter either.

Good solid car, well built with an OK spec for near the bottom of the model range.

Enough go round town, a bit breathless on the motorway but keeps up a good turn of speed - it's getting there that takes an age!

Can't comment on main dealers cos I use an independent garage I know & trust, or I do the work myself.

Car looks good with a few extras added (16v Sport alloys, beasting aerial etc).

I can't see why people moan about the 1.4 mk3 Astra being slow, it ain't light but it's very cheap to run. If you want a fast car buy something else!

Manufacturer's alarm system - dealer found that the rear side window elements had slight break, causing the alarm to trigger in hot weather. Dealt with well under the Network Q warrantee.

Very pleased with car. Practical, good performance, reliable, servicing & parts far less cost than similar offerings from Volkswagen - almost half in most cases.

Exhaust bracket failed after 12,000 miles.

After a lot of hard line persuasion the dealer picked up the labour costs.

Poor paint finish on the front bumper means stone chips galore.

Very thirsty for petrol - about 34 miles to the gallon taking it fairly easy.

Would have expected more creature comforts from top of the range model.

Electrics failed, gearbox rattled.

As I said a good car but a pity about the dealers.

Engine mountings, water pump, alternator, battery, distributor cap, exhaust, electrics, brakes front & rear (need constant bleeding), heating, suspension.

Biggest waste of money ever!

Only had it 4 months, but nothing has gone wrong yet.

Reasonably fast yet economical. However, ride quality is poor, probably not helped by the 15" alloys fitted as standard to the '97 model year. Overall a good car.

The odd loose nuts (doors), minor irritants but all resolved under warranty.

Generally a very competent and capable car and spacious and economical with a willing engine... a car for all occasions.