SEAT Ibiza (2002 - 2009) 1.4 SE 3d (2003/03) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I'd like to think it says practical and sensible but with a sense of fun. In reality it probably says that I can't afford to buy a new one!

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They like it, but say that, like me, it's getting past its prime..

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. I've had a catalogue of reliability problems that have put me off the Ibiza and SEAT as a whole.

What are you likely to buy next?

Probably a Toyota or Honda, although I haven't decided what models yet. If the budget can stretch, maybe a Nissan X-Trail.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£9,500

When did you buy the car?

March 2003

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes. Upgraded equipment levels and an excellent deal on the car I traded in.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Good reviews and an excellent test drive.

What was the dealer like?

Average. Didn't really do anything to make me feel like a valued customer after purchasing the car.

What's it like to drive?

When everything works, great fun. Handles well, loves motorway driving and country roads equally, and just a pleasure to have fun with.

What's it like to park?

A doddle.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Plenty! In the first three years I had to have the door lock replaced, suspension replaced, and there were consistent problems with the engine management system warning lights. In the past 12 months, both front springs have snapped, the electric window mechanism broke, the rear springs have been replaced, the front bushes have just gone, the exhaust has been replaced and the engine management warning lights continue to flash on and off.

What's most practical about your car?

Fuel costs - still pretty cheap to run.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The radio - it drowns out the rattles and creaks from the trim and suspension!