Used Vauxhall Zafira MPV 1999 - 2005 reliability review

What should I look for in a used Vauxhall Zafira?

First, inspect the car's service history to make sure that the cambelts have been replaced when they should have been. This doesn't apply to the chain-driven 2.2-litre petrol engines, or the 2.0-litre diesel.

Also, check that the spare wheel is still strapped underneath the car where it should be. It's there to free up space for the clever rear seats, but is all too easily stolen.

Damp carpets could indicate that water is working its way into the cabin through gaps in the bulkhead, but this isn't quite as serious as it sounds. An hour's labour and a bit of sealant will have it fixed.

Try folding all of the seats, but pay particular attention to the slide latches on the middle bench, which often fail and can leave the seats unsecured.

Finally, rear bumpers cost a lot to replace, so check for cracks or bodged DIY repairs with mismatched paint.