Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (1998 - 2005) 1.6i Club 5d Auto (2002/02) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

A boring person or a sales representative. But I'm neither.

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

No comment

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. Too uncomfortable for long journeys.

What are you likely to buy next?

VW Golf.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,500

When did you buy the car?

May 2005

Did you get a good deal and why?

Okay. Full Vauxhall 12 months warranty + new MOT included. Needed to use warranty in month 11 as both front bushes needed replacing for MOT renewal.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

What was the dealer like?

Okay.

What's it like to drive?

Not involving to drive. Steering feels dead and not sensitive. Driver's seat very hard and uncomfortable to sit in after 1 hour drive.

What's it like to park?

Hatchback result in rear vision impeded, making reversing car difficult to see. Front parking is okay. Side mirrors not electric and not heated. Winter difficult to see out of when frosted up.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes. Front bushes needed replacing before MOT renewal. Keep getting rubbing sound from front+rear of car. Suspect brake shoes or/and pads + calipers need replacing soon to eradicate sound.. Update 03/04/07 - Just had the front brake pads and discs changed on car. Cost £280 at Kwik Fit. Rubbing sound has all but disappeared. Touch wood, the car has been totally reliable since its last service. Next one is due when the service indictor lights up...possibly May 07.

What's most practical about your car?

Hatchback allow bulky items to be carried with drop down rear bench seat. Automatic - useful in London. Quite nippy for car+engine size. Been reliable so far. Can carry family of five (for short distants only).

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Air condition.