Vauxhall Astra Estate (2004 - 2010) 1.3 CDTi 16V Club (90ps) 5d (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Practical and rather boring !

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

Mad! For paying out repair bills for such a boring car.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. On paper it looks like a great buy for the budget driver but in real life it's cost me a fortune to run.

What are you likely to buy next?

Something with better performance.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£4,000

When did you buy the car?

October 2010

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes they chucked in matts and a free tank of diesel.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Needed a car that was good on fuel and cheap to run.

What was the dealer like?

Very helpful and honoured the 3 month warranty.

What's it like to drive?

Very slow when city driving excellent on motorways. 5 th and 6th gear are a waste of time unless driving over 50 mph. Steering is vague.

What's it like to park?

Easy unless carrying passengers in the back.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes. In the first 3 months the car went back 4 times. It had a new egr valve, new starter motor, new glow plugs and new battery all covered by warranty. In the past 2 years the oil sumps been replaced due to leaking, it's had new steering arms plus new tyres. In the past year it's had another steering arm set plus more tyres, new glass for the wing mirrors due to falling out and a new auxiliary pulley and belt due to breaking. Plus wheel bearings because the sensor was faulty.

What's most practical about your car?

It's very good on fuel.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?