1989 Vauxhall Senator CDi review from UK and Ireland
"Comfortable, reliable, good value second hand, but watch for rust"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Hole in air conditioning heat exchanger, £800.
Cruise control failed, £150.
Heater fan failed, £300.
Heat adjustment failed, one side, £100.
One valve spring snapped, £50.
Fuel pump relay failed, £50.
Thermostat failed, £50.
Front brake discs replaced twice.
Extensive rust underneath requiring welding to pass MoT after 11 years, £500.
Electrics now becoming unreliable.
General comments?
Not a bad record, considering the miles this car has done. Engine, gearbox and power steering still seem fine, no appreciable wear visible on seats, carpet, steering wheel, pedal pads etc. Comfortable, quiet, good handling, low depreciation, reliable. A bit expensive to run because of parts cost and fuel consumption.
Rust and corrosion turn out to be its Achille's heel.
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| 1989 - Senator CD 3.0i 12v petrol A luxurious, fast, safe motorway cruiser |
|
| Luxurious quick sturdy classic |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 petrol Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 117000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 203000 miles |
| Previous car | Vauxhall Cavalier |
| Date of Entry | 17th July, 2002 |