2000 Vauxhall Vectra LS review from UK and Ireland

Only had this car since early 2001, so no problems to report except for a few items I had the Vauxhall dealer look at during its first service. The engine drivebelt which drives the AC compressor, water pump, alternator etc. made slight 'swishing' sounds during damp weather... not loud at all but a modified belt was fitted free. Anyone who has this problem should be able to get the modified belt fitted by Vauxhall.

A couple of rattles that have irritated me have mostly been solved by myself. The worst was a rattling sound from the passenger footwell area which turned out to be the center console rubbing against where it comes up to meet the main dashboard. A few sticky pads solved that.

Occasionally there is a slight clicking or tapping type noise which sounds like it is coming from behind the instrument panel. This comes and goes and often disappears when the car is restarted after being parked a short while.. very odd but does not bother me. Any ideas anyone? Apart from that nothing else, but the bumpers should have a rubbing strip of some sort as they could be very easily damaged and scratched.

Having read various reports about the Vectra, I was not too sure it looked a good proposition, but the Mark 2 model is very impressive in my opinion... much nicer than Ford Mondeos I often use on business. The ride is a little on the firm side, but the steering is responsive and holds its composure well on corners.

The 2 litre 16 valve TD engine is a star, pulls like a train and hardly notices hills and is almost ticking over at 2250 RPM @ 70 MPH.

Currently averaging 47 MPG doing mainly town/country driving and it often surprises Numpties in their GTI's on the road during mid range acceleration! When warm the engine is refined and smooth, but is rather vocal under load when cold.

It looks smart with its colour coded bumpers, see-through headlamps, side skirts and some aftermarket Vauxhall alloys.

The interior is of a high standard with supportive, comfortable seats and the general build quality is excellent. I also have found an excellent Vauxhall dealer... Kirkby Central in Chorley are highly recommended, they are a pleasant change to other garages I have been using in the past.

Overall I am very pleased with it and is definitely underrated and the latest batch of direct-injection diesels are the way forward!

Any comments - rickp@rickp.freeserve.co.uk.