1996 Vauxhall Tigra review from UK and Ireland

Problems with poor paintwork after delivery. Parts of bodywork resprayed under warranty.

Problem with moisture inside the headlamp (supposedly a sealed unit). Headlamp replaced under warranty.

Problems with Cam "gear wearing" (dealers description). This was fixed F.O.C. by Vauxhall dealer despite the car being out of warranty.

Oil pump gasket failed and sprayed engine bay with oil. Nice! Fixed F.O.C. by Vauxhall dealer despite the car being out of warranty.

Radiator leaks at the fan switch. Was leaving nasty patches on my driveway. Oddly enough, Fixed F.O.C. by Vauxhall dealer despite being out of warranty!!

Now, the whole thing squeaks and rattles likes crazy when I'm driving along. This car is only 18 months old!

I get a little suspicious when dealers fix things for nothing. So far, the Tigra's been in to a dealer about five times, but I only paid once (and that was for it's 12,000 mile service). I reckon they know there are a lot of faults and that's why they fix them free - to keep the customers quiet!

In particular, the problems in the "Cam area" seem to be mentioned quite a lot by others.

Seeing as the Frontera gets a regular grilling and I've not had much joy with my Tigra, I've decided never to buy any Vauxhall ever again.

And as for Ford, don't start me on them ....