2004 Vauxhall Zafira Energy from UK and Ireland - Comments

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.

The engine slowing on the motorway only seems to happen in the UK. I recently drove to Holland, had this problem until Dover. From Dunkirk to Amsterdam not a single problem. As soon as I returned to Dover, got 5 miles out, the problem started again. There seems to be environmental interference effecting the engine management system. Vauxhall must be aware of this problem, but is not telling the public, as you may find out if you have an 04 and need to change the rear pads and discs; it will cost you if you have Bosch calipers and not Lucas. Nevertheless I like the vehicle and would get another.

Junior R.