Used Vauxhall Vectra Estate 2002 - 2009 reliability review
Practical, cheap and tough. Makes more sense than many MPVs
- Used Vauxhall Vectra Estate 2002 - 2009
What should I look for in a used Vauxhall Vectra?
The Vectras has earned a reasonable reputation for reliability, although according to the What Car? Reliability index, they have slipped in recent years and, overall, Vauxhall rates below average.
The 2.2 diesel needs regular oil checks/top-ups, otherwise it could run dry and seize. The injector system on that engine is vulnerable to leaks and symptoms include poor starting.
There have been some reports that the 2.2 petrol can snap its timing chains early on, caused by blockages from dirty oil. Groans that seem to come from the front suspension are often traced to faulty radiator mountings.
The clutch return spring has been known to stretch and cause premature wear/failure - dealers will fit a stronger one. Finally, be warned that the service indicator might show a service is needed well before it's due (Vauxhall dealers can spot this and correct if needed).
