2004 Vauxhall Zafira Energy review from UK and Ireland

And I thought it was just me experiencing these problems with my Zafira, these problems are obviously more common than people realise.

Like many of the writers elsewhere on this site, I have been experiencing problems with the Engine Management System light coming on since I purchased from new in 2004. It's become gradually worse to the point that now every single time I take it onto the motorway, the light comes on and the car loses power and reverts to limp mode.

I have mentioned it countless times to several dealers and during services, but each time I get the same response - 'it's a software glitch mate I've reset it for you'. It's now got to the point that I have no faith in dealerships to solve the problem. I have written to GM customer services hoping for some assistance.

I was led to believe these were reliable cars, however this is plainly not the case.

On top of the EMS fault, I like some of the previous writers, have had the same problem with a sticking ignition barrel causing the starter motor to burn out - that set me back £600.

Additionally a faulty door-locking motor which cost £180 to fix.

I have read other peoples comments with interest, and depending upon the response I get from GM, I may take it to a independent garage and ask them to check the EGR valve and the Mass Flow meter.

If anyone has any advice for me, I would really appreciate it. I was thinking of upgrading to a new Zafira, but don't have any confidence in them any more, especially since when on holiday in a service area which I pulled into to reset the car for the 100th time, a new Zafira owner pulled in next to me and did the same with his car. I think I'll go back to Toyota - I had a Carina for 6 years and the only thing I had to change was one light bulb.

Cheers Chris D.