Conference terri::cars_uk

In the Summer I think

Today's Auto-express shows spy shots of a new cavalier estate, so answer to 
second question is allmost certainly YES.

Richard

    
    
    Vauxhall dealer told me there will be an estate!  ('bout time to)
    
    Richard

    Anyone seen any pictures or got any information on the new Vauxhall 
    Cavalier, which I gather is due out later this year?  Not that I'm a 
    particular fan, it's just that the way the car scheme is weighted, I'll 
    almost inevitably end up replacing my current Cavalier with another 
    one.
    
    I'd be interested to know the range of body styles (will there be an 
    estate as well as saloon/hatchback?) and whether it will have the same 
    engines (particularly the turbo diesel).
    
    I read somewhere that GM might drop the Cavalier name and adopt Vectra 
    as used by Opel.  Can't say I'm too fussed either way.
    
    As an aside (maybe this should be a separate Note), I saw in the 
    current Cavalier catalogue that on the some models there is the option 
    of a combined CD/tape player.  In the picture there only appeared to be 
    one slot.  Is this the case, or is one of the drives in a separate box 
    somewhere else?  Strikes me as an awful lot of mechanics to cram into a 
    single unit - with a radio as well!  Anyone any experience of these 
    combined units?
    
    Ian
    

    
    I can't say for certain, but my Rover's Radio Cassette doubles as a CD
    controller for an (optional) auto changer in the boot.
    
    I think both Rover and Vauxhall use Phillips radios.
    
    Mark

    
    Haven't seen any pictures yet, but did read a short article in Autocar
    a while ago.
    
    The new Cavalier will be available initially as saloon/hatch only
    probably in October. Estates will follow in 1996. Engines will be
    1.6 16v - 2.5 24v. Car will be badged 'Vectra'.
    
    I guess Vauxhall will try and shift as many of the stockpiled old
    models as it can up to the end of August and then start the launch.
    
    Richard.
    
    

    
    re.0 and radios....
    
    EITHER   radio/cass   OR   radio/cd  NOT both.   
    
    Model depends on choice of car, but only the CDX gets the radio/cd as
    standard, except you can specify radio/cass as no cost option.  Every
    other cav is radio/cass..... upgrade to radio/cd at cost if avaliable
    as option...  but as always I stand to be corrected.  Check VTX
    
    - MARK -
    

    Re .3
    
    See VTX
    
    SC303 radio cassette is no-cost option on CDX
    SC804 CD radio/cassette - optional at �173 per annum.
    
    Having the in-car console as a controller for a CD auto-changer in the 
    boot (as .1 suggests) seems reasonable.
    
    Ian
    

    
    The autochanger I had fitted in the Cavalier is about 260 quid a year
    extra - perhaps that would be an option?
    
    Chris.

    
    re SC804 - this is a Radio/Cassette with a 'CD' button which allows you
    to switch to CD if you have an autochanger fitted. The earlier SC804
    didn't have this feature, but had a couple of other 'features' instead.
    
    Graham

    There was a picture in Auto-express a couple of weeks ago. Sort of
    looked like you'd expect when the omigawd designers were let loose on a
    cavalier. 
    
    Quite good looking, somewhat different, but not radical.
    
    Richard

New Vectra is in this week's Autocar.  Doesn't look radically different to the 
existing one, to be honest.   It's due here in October, and will start at 11k.

It's expected that a GT edition will top the range.

    I recently worked out that with the introduction of the Vectra, all
    Vauxhall models will end in 'a' except the Monteray !
    
    Well, there yer go.
    
    Royston

    Hmm.. saw one of those Moteray things yesterday... what on earth is it
    supposed to be ?!
    
    Dan$rathole?!

An Isuzu Trooper.


Helpfully,
m.

    Just seen the price of the Vectra, they seem to be higher than the
    Cavalier.
    
    If you want a Vectra at no actual cost out of your salary (exclude tax
    loss) then you will have to have the 1.6 8v envoy 5 door!.
    
    some of the other models are only slightly more but on principle then
    you are actually paying for the necessity of a car for your job, thats
    assuming you are at the 2,950 allowance level!.
    
    Seems like the choice is rather limited these days!.
    
    Does anyone have the manufacturers price lists for all these models
    yet?? so we can calculate the tax loss (may also be more!!!).
    
    Patrick
    

    If you compare list prices of Vecra vs Cavalier is there any
    difference?

    �Vecra vs Cavalier
    
    The base allowance is �2950

    The current driver prices are -

      PCL Number            Model                           Price

    Cavalier 5 dr
      12003                 LS 1.6i                         3,153

    Vectra 5 dr
      18013                 1.6 16v LS                      3,004

    Confused if you look at CDX and compare Cavalier and Vectra.
    
                              Cav                     Vectra
    
    4 - door CDX	      4425			4238
    
    5 - door CDX	      4238			4438
    
    Derek

    Sorry, should have clarified, - 1. refers to 2.0l 16V.
    
    Derek

    At least the Corsas are cheaper !
    
    Royston

    re .18  �Cavalier 5 dr LS 1.6i     3,153
    
    Strange things are happening. VTX now shows this model at 2,950 !
    
    Royston

    The prices of the cavaliers have been hiked!!!!
    seems like a ploy to make the Vectra seem like a comparable
    deal which would be acceptable to all????
    
    patrick

    
    Just read the (p)review of the Vectra in Top Gear mag (yep, sad I know!)...
    
    After seeing the production version pictures the car looks very
    strange.  With the red paintwork of the car tested the black plasticky
    bits that wrap around at the front and rear look particularly crap. 
    The boot on the hatchback looks awful too, it looks just like it's been
    lifted from one of the Daewoos (Nexia?)...not pleasant at all.
    
    Chris.

    Two Vectra demonstration models will be on display at DECPark for one
    week commencing 19th October 1995 to coincide with the UK launch.
    
    Wadham Kenning - Reading will also be holding a special launch evening
    at the dealership on the 19th October 1995 and invitations for this
    evening are available from reception at Worton Grange, Winnersh and
    Basingstoke.
    

    Well, I've seen, touched, and sat in one. I like it very much.
    
    I'll be going to the launch on Thursday...
    
    I also have the list prices from Leaseplan and all the option
    availability stuff. A colleague has the colour availability.
    
    Vauxhall have actually only increased their list prices a fraction - I
    think this is reflected in the - now updated - lease prices.

    >> Vauxhall have actually only increased their list prices a fraction -
    >>I think this is reflected in the - now updated - lease prices.
    
    When I looked I thought the Vectra prices, say for a 16v SRi, were up
    around 4 or 5 hundred pounds a year on the Cavalier
    
    
    Greg

    At the model I'm looking at 2.0 CDX, the Vectra is only a little more
    than the new Cavalier price, but the Cavalier price was hiked over �400
    in the latest round of changes.
    
    Re a few back there was a discussion on radio/CD options on Vauxhalls.
    If anyone has info I'd appreciate knowing what is standard and what
    options there are for the Vectra.
    
    Derek

    Just had a quick look at the Vectra, although it is not being
    officially released until 7pm tonight. 
    
    We looked at a 1.7td GLS. The spec. was impressive, Electric sunroof,
    leather steering wheel, radio controls on the steering wheel. The GLS	
    also has front foglights, a remote control deadlock/alarm/immobiliser.
    The electric window controls have been moved forward on the central
    console, making them easier to reach.
    Safety features include drivers airbag,"decoupling foot pedals", seat
    belt tensioners and a side impact system like Volvo's
    
    
    				Dave

    There's a very nice Vectra on display outisde DECpark. Very nice to
    walk past a new car and not get lynched by the salesperson.

    Jane.

    I queued next to one this morning on the M1 in Leeds. Looks okay, but
    nothing to shout about.
    
    Clive

yawn............

(We went passed a Vauxhall garage last night - looks like they were having to
hold a party to make it look interesting....:-)  )

    Whilst the Jeremy Clarkson bit on Top Gear was quite amusing, his 
    'spoilt brat' attitude toward the Vectra annoyed me. 
    I would think a large proportion of viewers will end up driving 
    or having a Vectra as a co .car and a few comments in comparing
    trim levels against the existing cavalier
    models would have been useful. Sure he rants and raves about
    all the high performance cars he is lucky enough to drive but how
    many of the TG audience will be rushing out to buy MGF's let alone
    Diablos and F50's !
    
    I saw some Vectras in Basingstoke today and its a definate improvement
    on the Cavalier whilst not being too radical. Vauxhall can't afford
    to make this type of car anything else apart from a functional and
    practical rep mobile.
    
    Royston

    
    What about resale values of Cavaliers now that the model has been
    superceded?  Surely the value will go through the floor...(or at least
    drop a grand or two?).
    
    Chris.

re.33 and the comments about Jeremy's attitude to the Vectra - I know a lot of
people are going to end up having one as a company car - but that doesn't stop
it from being boring (IMO) - and as for comparing trim levels - you can do that
by going to any Vauxhall dealer - I'm sure that they would be more than happy to
give you chapter and verse.... in far more useful detail than ever any slot on a
TV program is able. And as for all the other things he gets to drive, we can all
dream, can't we?

    Agree totally with .33,
    
    Jeremy Clarkson is a complete w***er, for example, the 1.8 16valve
    jobby top speed is actually more than the crrent 2.0 i cavalier, now
    that is a difference which can be noted (although not usable).
    
    Inside I found loads of changes which give a completely different feel
    to the car.
    
    Besides Vauxhall were not going to change drastically what has been one
    of their most successful vehicle designs!.
    
    They are going to run another top gear review this sunday (22nd oct)
    not sure what time though?, this was due to complaints from vaux as to
    the nature of Mr Clarksons review (not!).
    
    Patrick

I dunno, although I think that Clarkson went a bit over the top, there
is a grain of truth in there.  The Vectra seems to be a competent, well
built, well equipped car, it just has no soul.  It's probably a result
of these `risk assessment' things that some car companies do, where they
make sure that there's nothing about the car that anybody will dislike
particularly, and the end product is something that is the lowest common
denominator; unoffensive, competent, and instantly forgettable.  Vauxhall
(or is it a GM or Opel design?) seem to have taken `playing it safe' to
a fine art.  They should have taken at least some risks with the styling -
I'd have thought that a car that some people like and others hate would
be more successful than something that no-one really cares about... although
it's not such a worry, I guess, when they have the fleet buyers sewn up...

Chris.

    �They should have taken at least some risks with the styling -
    
    Like Ford did with the Scorpio ?
    
    Royston

>    Like Ford did with the Scorpio ?
    
I'm not sure that Ford got it right with that, but I applaud them for
daring to be different...

Chris.

    
    re:.39 etc.
    
    It's the same with all four/five door Euroboxes that are around now or
    will be soon; the Audi A4 was the first apparent new shape of the breed, 
    now the Vectra is out in a very similar shape, the Peugot 406 will be
    around soon, yet another one from that mould...it's just the current
    trend for saloon design.
    
    You can see other trends in the designs such as the two seperate groups
    of headlights on cars such as the new Mercs, CRX, Celica, Elise...etc.
    
    The Fiat Coupe was designed beautifully, as is the new Alfa Spider (not
    sure when it's out?) but they aren't exactly what everyone would class
    as utilitarian for the mass market.
    
    Chris.

    After checking out the brochure and the lease costs, I favour
    a 1.8 GLS with cruise control and air con (with sunroof deleted).
    
    A very well equipped package for a reasonable price.
    
    Royston

    Those glory days of turbo cars are long gone then Royston.

    Glory days indeed. 
    
    Family needs, no pay rise and errosion of benifits has forced a change
    of attitude I'm afraid.
    
    Royston

    
    If any one is interested in Vectra 1.7TD performance vs Cav 1.7TD
    performance.
    
    	The results of road tests my son and I performed in each of the
    above vechicles was that acceleration is pretty much the same, neither
    car has an edge. (Which is not surprising give that the lanuch model
    vectra has the same TD engine as the CAV)
    
    As for mpg we didnt have the test car long enough for that.
    
        
    :J (Soon to be a petrol driver after 3 diesels as you get less power
    and no better mpg these days)

    � no better mpg these days
    
    So you're expecting 50 mpg out of a petrol engine in a family sized car ?
    
    At 2000 miles a month I reckon I save about �40 per month on fuel by
    running a diesel against a petrol.
    
    Mind you if you don't do too many miles I wouldn't bother with a diesel
    as sometimes they are painfully slow.
    
    Royston
             

    I have a Peugeot 405 1.8i estate on loan at the moment. I can say with
    accuracy that I'm getting almost exactly 20% fewer miles per tankful
    than from my own Peugeot 405 GLDT estate. I can also state with
    accuracy that I don't think the top-end torque compensates for the loss
    of low-end grunt, especially in 5th gear at motorway speeds. Nope, I'll
    stay with turbo diesels thanks.
    
    Laurie$25K_miles_a_year

    I think that as the 'environmental' considerations take their toll on
    the diesels, so the economy will reduce eg. Astra 1.7D is only slightly
    better on book figures in terms of economy over the 1.7 TD, because
    Vauxhall/Opel have 'soft turbo'd' the 1.7D "to meet or exceed 1996 EEC
    emission regulations".
    
    It will be interesting to see how the unleaded 'lean-burn' motors
    compare with diesels in a couple of years' time.
    
    I suppose necessity has always been the mother of invention!(...until
    some large oil company buys the patent rights!)
    
    Tim
                         

    as for >50 out of a petrol family car, well actually the Vectra 2.0i
    CDX AUTOMATIC does 50.2 mpg at 56mph. 
    
    

    Yeah, but who wants to pootle around at that speed? I certainly don't.
    I do a lot of miles, both urban and motorway, the latter almost always
    100miles+ per "leg". I tend to run at around 85 most of the time on
    motorways, especially outside the UK; such a vehicle would have
    appalling consumption, and would strain the car severely. Knowing that
    whatever car I drive is going to cause pollution, I still think the
    turbo diesel is a better choice, and it's certainly a lot easier on my
    pocket. Remember that unlike the UK where unleaded and diesel are
    pretty well the same price, there is a huge difference in mainland
    Europe. In Belgium, unleaded is 10p *per litre* more expensive than
    diesel. Add that to the (at least) 20% fewer miles per tank I'm getting
    at the moment, and there's no contest.
    
    Diesel   @ 50p   per litre * 65 = �32.50 for 550 miles or 5.9p  per mile
    Unleaded @ 60.9p per litre * 65 = �39.58 for 420 miles or 9.42p per mile
    
    Don't even ask about 4-star, that's 72p a litre... My old Escort's
    currently doing about 220 miles per 45 litres... Ouch.
    
    Laurie.

Laurie, yes, because UK unleaded and diesel prices are much the same, your 
savings just really can't be achieved anymore.

Stuart

    
    I drive about 60,000 miles per year. I tried it in a Mondeo estate with a
    petrol engine for a year. This was very comfortable but the fuel seemed
    to evaporate. Though the manual said I should get returns somewhere in
    the 50mpg in reality it was less than 40mpg.
    
    Then I took over the lease of a Peugeot 405 GLDT saloon earlier this year. 
    I try to drive keeping the engine at approx 2500 rpm so I do the 85
    miles to work in about 90 minutes. This returns about 60mpg. But, when
    I used the air conditioning during the summer the fuel consumption was
    more akin to a petrol engined car!
    
    My next lease car is a combination of the above - a diesel engined
    Mondeo estate.  
    
    The acceleration in the Peugeot was a bit slow initially but once the
    engine gets to approx 2200 rpm the car feels as if it has a rocket up
    its a$%e (and, it leaves a satisfying cloud behind). 
    
    I'll avoid going back to a petrol engined car for the foreseeable future.
    Give me a turbo-diesel anyday.
    
    Dave

    �car feels as if it has a rocket up its a$%e
    
    Weeeeeeeell, I wouldn't put it quite like that.
    
    After being used to a turbo petrol car, the experience in a turbo D is
    more like someone getting out and pushing :-)
    
    Royston

    I used to have an Astra 1.8 16v. It got around 32mpg - 35 if I was
    really slow. 
    
    I now have a Citreon 1.9 diesal estate (non-turbo). Pushing it HARD, I
    get 47mpgnd pottering (75mph on motorways), I get around 52 mpg.
    
    There is NO comparison if you wish to save money.
    
    Alan

    re .8 
    
    I wonder if someone has a turbo-charged petrol-engined car they'ld let
    me borrow...
    
    D. 

    Dave, 
    
    Believe me you don't want to try one as it will ruin your happy
    relationship with your turbo D :-)
    
    Royston

      
    So what is you conculsion:
    
    Given that a petrol 1.8 16v Vectra is rated at 42mpg @75mph 
               a diesel 1.7TD Vectra is rated at 44 mpg @75pmh
   and in the UK unlead(price) == Diesel at the petrol station
    
    Is it going to cost me more to drive around at 85mph in a petrol or
    diesel vectra.
    
    
    Why?
    
    :J

re.12:

Well the diesel must win somewhere because I regularly get well over 600 miles
out of my 60 litre Cavalier 1.7TD tank. 

I'd like the petrol car to win though because I'm fed up with the 'agricultral
feel' of the TD.

Dave.

    I reckon that with cruise control on the petrol (quite a cheap option) 
    there probably ain't alot in it.
    
    Although not relevant to this string, why have Vauxhall got both 2.0
    and 1.8 petrol engines ?.  There isn't alot of difference in
    performance or ecconomy.
    
    

I reckon it'll cost you the same to drive at 85mph in both cars.

3 points and a hefty fine.

    ...But have you noticed the similarity of design of the rear end of the 
    Vectra 5 door hatch with that of the DAIWOO NEXIA!!!!!
    
    GM must have had "a lot to do with Daiwoo"
    
    Tim
     

    I think the differential between the fuel consumptions of petrol and 
    diesel engines depends on driving style.  In my experience, the 
    consumption of a petrol engine gets rapidly worse as the car is driven 
    harder.  Diesel engines seem to be more forgiving to a heavy right 
    foot.
    
    Ian
    

    re .57
    
    I have a petrol turbo, 200sx, on offer for a swap over Christmas see 988.39
    
    Has your estate been delivered yet.
    

    I've just had a Vectra 1.7 TD GLS demonstrator for four days and
    have been encouraged to share my thoughts so here goes.

    First of all the comparisons are with my current lease mobile which is
    a Cavalier 1.7 TD LS which is now 50 mumble thousand trouble free
    miles up (well ok its had a dicky air temp sensor, dodgy LCD radio
    display and electric windows that are so slow that I think mechanics inject
    a shot of valium into them at service time).

    I think the Vectra is a good looking car. Nothing too special and
    certainly nothing radical. First impressions when getting into it is
    that it has a good quality feel to it and the doors shut with a
    reassuring thunk.

    Being very tall I often find it difficult to get a comfortable driving
    position and the Vectra is no exception. The seat seemed quite high to
    start with. Ah! I thought seat height adjuster. This is located on the
    right hand side of the seat and has a unique pump action to lower and
    raise the seat. Bad news though it was already at its lowest position.
    Bloody waste of time that ! 

    The next obstacle to overcome was the centre armrest/storage bin.
    This not only makes it awkward to plug the seatbelt in but makes it
    very tricky reaching in front of it to put the handbrake on and off.

    One thing is for sure. The person who designed the interior had a
    serious 'cup-holder' fetish. Open the glove box there are two recesses
    for coffee cups. Open the centre storage bin cover and it reveals another
    circular recess. Now for the pi�ce de r�sistance - underneath the
    stereo there are TWO viscous-damped popout coffee cup holders. You have
    to see these to believe it. 

    The electric window switches are awkwardly placed either side of the
    gear stick. The strangely shaped door mirrors whilst attractive do not
    have a blind spot section on them. A useful feature on the current 
    Astra range and on late model Cavaliers.

    A further few gripes before the good stuff -
    The rear visibility is more restricted than the Cav due to the higher
    backend. I found the heavy tint across the top of the windscreen
    finished quite low down and was a little distracting as was the light
    grey dashboard which during daylight reflected and it was as if you were
    looking through a grey mist all the time (this is one of my pet hates -
    see my comments in the Punto note). When choosing a colour for any
    Vauxhall I only consider those that come with the anthracite rather
    than grey interior for this reason.

    My left leg felt quite cramped as the centre console intrudes quite a
    way and whilst very useful for those shorter of leg there is a foot
    rest for your left foot which I would prefer to do without. (The rest
    that is. Not my foot)

    The performance seemed _very_ poor compared to my car which I
    think has exactly the same 1.7 TD engine.  Maybe because it was new.

    Now the good points.
    It felt much quieter than the Cav. The steering was lighter at slower
    speeds which makes parking (in Viables car park :-) ) that much easier.
    The gear shift was very smooth compared to the quite notchy feel in the
    Cavalier.

    The greatest thing since the TV remote control has to be the remote
    stereo controls on the steering wheel. A little tricky to operate when
    you're going round corners but great fun and very useful once you master
    it. It has pretuned station changing, channel searching, volume control
    and the ability to switch from radio to cassette and back again.

    There was an annoying problem with the clock which seemed to
    reset to midnight every morning and stay there. This was obviously a
    fault. I wonder if this is common problem. It could be something to 
    do with the auto self-correcting facility which it is meant to have. 
    I haven't a clue what thats all about though.

    I'll be honest I was more than happy to hop back into my Cavalier. I
    just wish I had volume controls on my steering wheel.

    A while back I test drove the Astra Sport TD. This I liked a lot. 
    Thats what I'll probably be ordering in a couple of weeks time or if
    the Cavalier is cheap enough I may buy that. Right now I'm off for a cup
    of coffee. If only I had a holder to put it in !

    Royston

Better be quick if you want the Astra Sport TD.  Vauxhall have just deleted 
it - lack of demand.

Mike B.

    Ooh! Thanks for the tip.

    Interesting problem on the Vectra assembly line recently:
    
    One of the robot welders suddenly rotated 180 degs and welded its tool
    cabinet shut.  The cabinet is about the size of a double wardrobe, but
    the welder hit it hard enough to knock it onto the assembly line behind
    it.
    
    Nick

    
    
    Got my new vectra end of Feb, with a cdr500 music box, 3 days later
    music box stopped!!!!(dont think it liked playing supertramp at full
    volume), wont power on or do bugger all so I'm well hacked off, not
    the fuse as it runs other stuff, also the manual says you get the date
    only displayed when ignition switched off, well I get the time and
    outside temp all the time!!, so I think it has other related probs.
    
    Also the trip display only works when you prod its knob, sometimes it
    comes on ok other times wiggling the knob causes the display to go on
    and off......
    
    anyone else with similar probs??? pat
    

    The problem I had with the display when I had a demonstrator
    a while back was that the clock kept resetting to 00:00 and at night
    the disply would come on and then go off it was a bit spooky when I
    checked the car late one night in my drive as I could see the dashboard
    'glowing' from time to time.
    
    Royston

My Vectra of two months has a couple of annoying problems;

the back parcel shelf rattles like crazy, I have checked it and it seems to be 
a combination of the light weight supports, they no longer have to support the 
speakers, and the runners which allow the removable section to wobble.

the dial to turn the side and dipped headlights on often needs wiggling to 
get the lights to come on and can even turn off again when in side light mode.

Apart from that things seem OK.

Martin

    I am considering getting a Vauhall Vectra SRI from the car scheme and
    would like to hear opinoins from anyone who has a Vectra.
    
    I have driven the 2.0 GLS Vectra and found it much improved over the
    Cavalier. The magazines complain about handling not being up to the
    standard of other equivalents such as Mondeo etc.
    I have also driven Mondeos and did not find that there was a great deal
    of difference.
    
    I have a Nissan Primera at present which is superb to drive, much
    better than the Mondeo in my opinion and slightly better than the
    Vectra in the positive feel of the steering.
                                               
    Any comments please.

    >like to hear opinoins 
    
    Have you read the opinions in the previous replies ?
    My thoughts are in .65 FWIW
    
    Royston

    
    I've done about 500 miles in my new Vectra GLS so these are just first
    impressions. The SRI has shorter gearing than the GLS but is otherwise
    mechanically (engine/steering/suspension) the same. So far I've been
    less than impressed. I hope things improve.
    
    
    Plus points :-
    
    + taking the air con/ removing the sunroof option has provided me with
      decent headroom
     
    + Brakes are good. Pedal is firm and a dab on the pedal provides good
      braking effect.
    
     
    
    Negatives...
    
    - Car is very noisy over 70mph (booms/low frequency noise). It's quite
      unpleasant. Noisy road surfaces make things worse.
    
    - Performance is mediocre. I expect it to improve but it's never going
      to be a patch on the 16v I used to have.
    
    - Gearing is too long (should be better in the SRI). I keep putting my
      foot down to no effect, I'll have to get used to doing a lot of gear
      changing, even on motorways.
    
    - Ride is uncomfortable. 
    
    - Seat springing oscillates at a different rate from the suspension.
      Can't decide yet wether it's the seat 'floating' on the rebound over
      bumps or the car.
    
    - Radio (standard fit CAR400) is crap. Poor FM and tape compared to
      other units I've had. Amplification is also poor. Steering wheel
      controls, whilst a good idea only work on the radio. You can switch
      to tape, but there's no fast forward/rewind etc.
    
    - There is nowhere to stow anything within easy reach of the driver.
      (unless you like cup holders), Centre armrest is a joke. Useless.
      Just makes access to the seatbelts difficult.
    
    - Electric window switches are stupidly placed down on the centre
      console. Depending on the gear I'm in I have to approach the switch
      from two different positions. eg. if I'm in 4th I have to put my
      hand/arm over the gear lever whilst in 5th I have to put my hand/arm
      under the gear lever. If I don't change the movement I knock the car
      out of gear! Not only that, but I need to be a bloody contortionist
      as well. Why they couldn't have put them on the door instead of the
      electric mirror adjuster is beyond me.
    
    - Handling is poor compared with the Mondeo and IMO the Vectra comes 
      off second best to the Mondeo in most areas. I've driven 1.6LX and 
      2.0LX Mondeos and I'd swap the Vectra for either.
    
    I chose the Vectra coz it was cheaper than the Mondeo (�700+ per year).
    At the moment I think I should have spent the extra dosh. Let's hope
    things improve.
    
    Richard.

    
    Re .73
    
    I've just re-read Royston's review and I agree with his comments about
    the seat height. Removing the sunroof has meant I don't bang my head -
    but with no adjustment possible with the steering column I'm still 
    sat too high. I'd much prefer to be sat lower in the car.
    
    Richard.

    
    Does anyone know the height of the boot area in the Vectra Hatch ?
    
    Judy

    In good old Imperial measure ....
    
    
                     About 22 "
    
    Regards
    
    Steve\v
    

    Many thanks.
    
    Now I can order the correct height rack to sit in it.
    
    Judy

    Hi,
    
    Does anyone know how the RDS clock works? (GLS Vectra)
    
    The instructions for setting the RDS clock "enabled" in the book, do
    not seem to be correct. Press and hold the clock button for 3 seconds,
    move to the hour and hold again for 3 secs, you then get a choice of a
    1 or 0 for the RDS time. I assume that "1" = on, but still the little
    RDS clock does not come on.
    
    The only explanations I can think of is:
    
    1) It's broke!
    
    2) The RDS clock signal is not transmitted by all RDS radio stations
    
    3) The RDS clock signal is only transmitted at certain times of the
    day, by certain stations.
    
    My clock did not change when the clocks went on last week, hence the
    investigation.
    
    Keith.                   

    Yes this happened to me. I went to my car in anticipation of the time
    having leapt ahead all on its own, but it hadn't.  I tried enabling it
    as per the manual and that did not work either, however as I was
    driving up to Birmingham Yesterday it sprang into life. and has been
    working since.
    
    Pete

    
    Wadhams said it only works on Capital and BBC Oxford but I've tried 
    both and they didn't reset the clock. It may be that they only
    broadcast clock signals infrequently.
    
    Curiously, Radio 4 did reset my clock yesterday without me doing 
    anything.
    
    Richard.

    I don't know, but not all radio stations do all RDS functions. For
    instance Classic FM does not allow interrupts for traffic messages. It
    may be that time interrupts in the same way.
    
    Andrew

>>>    instance Classic FM does not allow interrupts for traffic messages. It
    
    Do you mean that if you are listening to classic FM it's not possible
    for another station to cut in? Or just that CFM don't themselves switch
    on RDS for traffic broadcasts (ie they don't interrupt anyone else)?
    
    Tony I

    It is my belief that whilst listening to Classic FM one will not
    receive traffic flashes etc. Certainly on my radio it is not possible
    to get the "TP" symbol to light whilst listening to CFM.
    
    Andrew

re -1

 Andrew,

>   It is my belief that whilst listening to Classic FM one will not
>    receive traffic flashes etc. Certainly on my radio it is not possible
>    to get the "TP" symbol to light whilst listening to CFM.

I noticed for the first time this weekend that the TP indicator was on
with Classic FM and that when requesting to be interupted by 
a traffic message, my radio did not automatically tune to another
channel. I assume that CFM will now interrupt with traffic flashes although
I have not verified this.

	Dave

    
    The clock saga goes on.... I found that the RDS clock only comes alive
    when the clock time is within two minutes of the RDS broadcast time.
    It resets the minute (forwards or backwards) very quickly - on a number
    of stations BBC1, 2, 3, 4, Capitol, GLR to name but a few.
    
    However when I set the clock to be 5 mins wrong - the system can't
    cope. The RDS clock never comes alight and the time is not reset.
    
    Perhaps Vauxhall's design for the next millenium means it will only
    work correctly after the year 2000.
    
    I want my money back. 
    Richard.
    

>                            -< Atomic clock bollox >-
                                             ^^^^^^
Oi!  Only *I'm* allowed to say that in here.

Chris.

    
    re .last
    
    With cars like the Vectra around I can't see how you can limit the
    choice of expletives by coining one all for your own use :-)
    
    Richard.

True enough... I've never driven one, but I've heard enough from other people 
to know never to buy one!

Chris.

    	Did well in the Top Gear/Powers survey, didn't they!
    
    				Malcolm.

        �   	Did well in the Top Gear/Powers survey, didn't they!
        
        Actually the next millenium car doesn't feature in the survey.
        The Cavalier (i.e the Vectra with normal wing mirrors) came  58th.
        
        See 525.340
        
        Ian.

    
    I believe the survey is based on cars of 2 yrs old only, hence no
    Vectra...
    
    - MARK -
    

    Re .86
    
    Your right! Set the clock to within 2 minutes of the correct time and
    the RDS clock comes on!
    
    What on earth is the point in this! Why do you have to set to the
    correct time, a clock that is supposed to be capable of keeping pace
    with local time!
    
    Perhaps it'll work OK in the next "millenium"!
    
    Keith.

Re Vectra and JD Power survey, I think that the critical note applied to the 
Vauxhall range as a whole; I'd considered making a similar comment based on 
what I'd heard about the Vectra, but refrained because I knew that someone 
would point out the obvious, ie. the Vectra isn't old enough to appear in the 
survey!

Chris.

    Anybody had problems with fuel lines becomming detached on their
    Vectra's ? 
    
    I heard about it for the first time this week when it occurred 
    to a collegue in the office. I thought it was a one-off case
    but I received a phone call from my brother in law who works for the
    AA.
    
    He told me that he has picked up 3 Vectra's with this problem and the
    Vauxhall helpdesk are also aware of it. At the present time there is no
    recall but from what I have heard it can be quite dangerous as the fuel
    sprays inside and outside of the car and can ignite on the hot exhaust
    or catalistic converter. You might even manage to ignite it in the car
    if you are a smoker as the fuel normally drenches the carpet in the
    back.
    
    I've now checked mine and suggest any Vectra owners should do the same. 
    The pipes can be found under the rear seat, under a cut out in the
    carpet, and through an inspection panel.
    
    
    Paul
    

    >fuel lines becomming detached 
    
    Is this affecting the whole range or just specific models or engine
    type (ie Petrol and/or Diesel)
    
    Royston

    I have had the problem with my Vecta 20I GLS Auto. The fuel line on the
    top of the tank under the rear seat came adrift on Good Friday, spilling
    a river of fuel onto the road and into the car. My 13 Week old daughter 
    was in her car seat sitting directly above where the fuel was spilling.
    
    The very nice AA man performed a fix by using three tie wraps to hold
    the line on and I am still waiting for Vauxhall to supply a fix.
    
    I think this story is a good reason never to smoke in a car !!!. 
    
    
    Mat

    This sounds like a VERY serious problem which without a forum like this
    may never get out to a wide audience. I've already forwarded the
    earlier reply to all the guys I know who have Vectras.
    
    Even if theres not a recall the fuel lines should be checked at service
    time.
    
    If this got out to Watchdog (or Top Gear ?) Vauxhall would be in the
    cart. Any volunteers ?
    
    Royston

    
    re a few back....
    
    Chris, sorry for stating the obvious to YOU, but I doubt that everybody
    was aware of it %*)))
    
    Regards,
    
    - MARK -

    
    Re the fuel leak - if you spring one I hope noone dumps a lit cigarette out
    of the car in front... another reason for keeping a good gap and having
    a diesel powered car.
    
    Ian.
    
    

    Dear all Vectra Drivers
    
    I have just got my clock automatic setting function working after a month 
    of giving the Dealer at Newbury a hard time.
    
    I was suffering the same problem as stated earlier in the conference
    with the RDS signal only comming on if the time setting is within 2
    minutes of the actual time.
    
    The dealer went from not understanding the problem, to not beleving 
    me, to admitting that Vauxhall have been setting the clock up incorrectly 
    in the factory. They took the car in to check the settings and returned 
    the car with the same fault. (ha ha).
    
    Two weeks later and after a complaint to the service manager they 
    resolved the problem by changing the RDS setup on the clock from 
    German to UK RDS settings and now it works as I expected.
    
    To get yours fixed/checked ask the dealer to check the RDS settings on 
    both the clock and radio and get them set to be for the UK format.
    Alternatively emigrate to Germany.
    
    
    regards
    
    Mat
    

    Mat,
    
    I don't suppose you have any idea as to how/what the settings are that
    they changed?
    
    Keith.

    I drive a Vectra 1.7 TD (although I hate to admit it...).  Apart from 
    being a generally boring car, I have one specific problem.  When 
    pulling away from rest, there is a really strong and unpleasant 
    vibration as the engine goes through 1,500 rpm.  This seems to resonate 
    throughout the car.  I've driven diesels before (last car was Cavalier 
    1.7 TD) but never experienced anything similar.  Wadhams in Reading 
    checked it and - surprise, surprise - said they could find no fault.  
    Has anyone else experienced the same fault?
    
    Apart from the above, my impressions of the car after 5,000 miles are 
    generally poor:
    
    . Fuel consumption noticably worse than Cavalier (although it got 
      better at last fill-up - maybe the engine has finally loosened up)
    
    . Although the suspension gives a good straight line ride on reasonably 
      flat surfaces, it is far to soft to corner well, and wallows round 
      bends
    
    . One of my taller friends had his head rubbing on the sunroof.  This 
      did not happen in the Cavalier.
    
    . I don't like the position of the electric window switches.  In 
      particular it is now impossible to open both front windows 
      simultaneously with one hand - something I sometimes do on a hot day 
      (when I'm not using the air con.)
    
    I'm afraid that sexy wing mirrors and damped cup holders don't make up 
    for the general mediocrity of this car.  If it wasn't so (relatively) 
    cheap on the scheme, I'd have gone for something else more interesting 
    like a Xantia or 406.
    
    Ian
    

	Unhappy with your Vectra, performance not up to much?

	The Times at the weekend reported on a test they ran
	comparing a fully restored Aston Martin DB5 and a
	Vectra SLi 2 Litre around Brands Hatch.

	The results were entirely predicable ie. The Vectra 
	was nearly 10% quicker around the circuit but they'd
	rather have the Aston.

	-John

    Another (slightly more surprising to me anyway) comparison was in a
    recent Autocar (almost wrote Motor - must be showing my age) the
    article was compairing the top speed on a number of cars, TVR, Lambo,
    Ferrari, XJ220 etc at end of a 1.7 mile (?) runway. They also through
    in fact that a current BMW 328i (Not even the coupe) was faster that an
    early (1977 ?) Porsche 911 Turbo ! The BMW got up to its top speed
    (148mph) but the Porcshe was slower.
    
    Rik (Never been above 130 in mine)

    Re .103
    
    I have done 3500 miles in my 1.7TD and agree with all points in Ian's
    note. I had an Astra 1.7TD before and took the Vectra as I thought I was
    getting a better car for what would have been the same price had I gone
    for another Astra. Mistake, I should have had another Astra.      
    
    I would add to the list, I don't like the gearing either. The Astra
    seemed much quicker and power to weight ratio was better, but the
    gearing I am sure was different. It also towed better.
    
    Also, I can't stop the hatch back "creaking" (slight, annoying rattle).
    
    Ian, Yes I also get the vibration. Not all of the time though. Depends
    how hard I rev the engine.
    
    Keith.

>    
>    Also, I can't stop the hatch back "creaking" (slight, annoying rattle).
>    

I too had the creaking hatchback. A temporary fix is to unscrew the rubber 
bungs on the hatchback door, this holds the door more tightly. A more 
permanent fix is to have the garage move the door lock catch to create a 
tighter seal.

Hope this helps

Martin

    Cheers Martin,
    
    The garage did the rubber bung trick, it did work for a few weeks. I'll
    get them to try the lock catch next.
    
    Keith.

re.108:

When someone ran into the back of my Cavalier, it came back from the repairer
better built at the back end than it was orginally.

Dave.

    re: 109
    
    Yep, I've got the same vibration - must be a design feature !
    
    Mike B.

    My Vectra 1.7 TD died on Friday night with my wife driving.  Just 
    stopped dead.  Subsequently, the engine could be turned for a few 
    seconds but then died again.
    
    To cut a long story short, the car was very low on oil.  There is 
    apparently a cutout which stops the engine if the oil pressure drops 
    too low (better than seizing the engine, I guess).
    
    Now this either means that the car was delivered with too little oil in 
    it (it has not had its first service yet), or it is burning oil at an 
    alarming rate (had to put 2 litres in).  I admit I hardly ever check 
    the oil in my lease cars - whenever I have done, it has proved 
    unnecessary.  What really annoys me is that the service log states that 
    the first service was due at 5,000 miles, but Vauxhall have withdrawn 
    this service, so it won't get looked at until it has done 10,000 miles 
    (it is on 8,500 at the moment).
    
    Anyone else had a similar problem?
    
    Regards,
    
    Ian
    
    PS - I presume I can't claim for the oil...
    

    re-1
    
    10,000 miles before the first service?  The Cavalier TD has an oil
    change type service every 4500 miles (I think diesels use lots of oil,
    for some reason).  
    
    mikef

    re .111
    
    Are you saying Lease Plan won't pay for intermediate servicing on
    diesels ?
    
    I would think this only applies to new vehicles that specifically state
    the long service intervals in the log book.
    
    Royston

    My new 806 has a "voluntary" service at 1000-1500 miles, and it
    explicitly states in the documentation that failing to have said
    service done, or having it done at a non-Peugeot dealer will *not*
    invalidate the 1 year warranty. The first service is at 6000 miles. 
    
    Now, I believe that I would be crazy to leave the first oil in there
    that long, and so mine will be changed at 1000 miles. Leaving a TD
    unchecked to 10,000 is unbelievable, and I wouldn't do it to my car.
    
    Cheers, Laurie.

    When two of us tried separately to book our 1.7 TD Vectras into two 
    separate Vauxhall garages, we were both told to stay away until 10,000 
    miles.  It was never suggested that there was any option.
    
    I agree that 10,000 miles seems absurd, and if it was my own car I'd 
    change the oil anyway.  Especially puzzling is that it is the same 
    engine as the 1.7 TD Cavalier - and as Mike Fiddler pointed out a few 
    back, that needs an oil change every 4,500 miles!
    
    Ian
    

    >>Vauxhall garages, we were both told to stay away until 10,000 miles.
    
    Its not up to the garage. Its up to LeasePlan.
    
    I can't believe that the garage would 'refuse' to service the car.
    If you're a paying customer they should be happy to change the oil
    every 10 miles if you want.
    
    The point is Lease cost you are paying includes servicing costs on the
    vehicle that were in force at the time it was delivered.
    
    If the says its not necessary just say fair enough but still do it !
    
    The secret of engine longevity is in frequent oil and filter changes.
    
    Royston
    
    
    
    

re.111:

Yes, you can claim for the oil.

Dave.

    I have posted the 8.3p per mile announcement in 594.93.
    
    Note the following section which shows clearly that oil costs are
    seperate and can be claimed for.
         
         -   we will reimburse through expenses the cost of oil 
             required for lease cars between services, provided that 
             the claim is supported by a receipt and a hard copy of a 
             mail notifying Lease Plan that additional oil has been 
             required.
         
    
    Royston

    Similar experience here with the 10,000 mile service interval for my
    1.7TD (Astra in my case). At time of delivery they told me to ignore
    the service book which has 4,500 mile intervals, as it had now changed
    to 10,000 miles. I tested this by calling two different Vauxhall
    dealers and tried to book my car in for its first 4,500 mile service
    "as stated in the service book, etc". After enquiring of what age my
    car was, both said "not necessary Sir....now 10,000 miles...blah,blah".
    
    Like others, I am increduluous at 10,000 miles for a first service,
    especially for a diesel.
    
    Phil Gill.

    Ian/Phil
    
    Definately worth asking leaseplan if the lease cost of your cars
    includes an intermediate service. If it does you are paying for it.
    
    INSTRUCT the garage to carry it out.
    
    Royston

    
    This may explain my utter amazement when I asked a couple of guys on
    the service desk at Wadham Kenning when the first service on my
    Frontera diesel was due. The response was "Don't know. You need to look
    in your handbook." Presumably, based upon Vauxhall policy at any point
    in time the service interval could be anything.
    
    Richard

    >> I can't believe that the garage would 'refuse' to service the car.
    
    Happened with me, took the wife's diesel in at 4500 and was told the
    Lease company would not pay, as the oil change is not needed until
    10000 miles.
    

    
    My vectra 1.8i gls apparently requires a seatbelt check for the front
    seat belt mounting bolts torque.
    
    The other thing ( 9,500 miles ) I am getting a rather alarming "CLONK"
    noticed from the front steering when turning left/right quickly. I
    believe it is getting progressively louder!. Also my mileage indicator
    light does not function so I have to "guess" my Business miles which is
    rather difficult ( no access to autoroute!!!!!)
    
    ....pat

    I'm considering a Vectra at the moment.
    
    Apparently the 1997 models have a new option CAR 600, which I believe
    is a CD multi-play boot mounted unit. I've queried the price/spec.
    If anyone knows any more I'd appreciate a response.
    Also, Air-conditioning is being removed as a standard option for SRi
    models.
    The dealerships appear to have very limited details (no brochures/spec)
    about the changes being put into the 1997 models.
    Anyone have any clearer picture?
    
    Thanks; Phil.

    Yup... Avoid Vauxhall Victors like the plague.... ;-)

    re .124 >standard option
    
    Aren't these terms mutually exclusive ?
    
    Seriously, I doubt if the dealers will know more until the brochures
    are released. It is a little early for '97 specs. These are normally
    not available till Sept/Oct. 
    
    Royston

    three years ago, when I was selecting my current car, I spoke with the
    salesman at Wadham Stringer, Fareham, and he faxed me a copy of the fax
    he had received from Vauxhall stating the changes that would appear
    with the new model 95 cars.  The car I received accurately reflected 
    the details of the fax.  This was somewhat unfortunate, as the fax
    stated "addition of single CD player" but didn't mention deletion of
    tape player!
    
    If you can persuade the sales rep to fax you the change list, then you
    probably have a pretty good guide to the changes.  If not, then maybe
    he's guessing.
    
    For more info on the CD player, try taking a look at the back of the 
    Omega brochure.
    
    Good luck
    C
    
    
    

    Has anyone else with a Vectra had difficulty in refilling the washer 
    bottle ?
    
    I tried to fill it over the weekend and it took an age to get a
    suitable quantity of water into it.  It was as if there was an
    blockage somewhere preventing the displaced air from escaping.
    
    Apparently my hubby had a similar problem when he filled it.
    
    Is this a known feature, that I'll have to live with ?
    
    Judy

    Two weeks ago Wadham Kenning told me that the only change for the 97
    model was the new CAR600 radio option, so I went ahead and ordered a 97
    model SRI. After reading .124 I checked again this morning and not only
    is the air conditioning an option, so is the trip computer. The 97
    model does have some unknown engine changes though. Unless they have
    made some serious changes to the engine and the gearbox, the SRI is now
    very close to the GLS in spec.
    
    Luckily Leaseplan and Wadham Kenning have been very helpful today, they
    have located a 96 model for me (there appears to be 1-2 remaining).

    Hi,
    
    I'd be interested who you spoke to at Wadham Kenning, as I've just
    given them a call and have been told that they don't get the official
    list of changes until Mid-August and then the '97 models won't be
    launched until at least Mid-October (Around the time of the Motor
    Show).
    
    Mike

    Re: .130
    
    I spoke a girl in fleet sales, I did not get her name but spoke to the
    same person both times. They have a document that describes what is on
    the 97 model, it does not define the changes, you have to compare the
    options/standard fits yourself. Leaseplan also confirmed the changes
    for me.

    
    Well, after a few more phone calls (reply .129) is right. The SRi is
    going to lose AirCon and the Trip Computer apparently to make the list
    price more competitive.
    
    The story from lease plan is....If your current car has done 58,000+ then 
    they might be able to get you a 96 model for the price shown on VTX of 
    about �812.  If you haven't done that mileage and you're able to order
    your new car then they'll put in a factory order for the 97 model which
    is going to be about �500/600 cheaper (No A/C or T/C) but you still pay 
    the Driver Price of �812 because this price is fixed for the year.  
    
    So once again it sounds like the benefit doesn't get passed on to the
    employee.
        
    Mike

    I discussed the SRi issue with another dealer where my wife is buying a
    car. He showed me the options guide for the 1997 models. It looks like
    there is a new V6 engined SRi coming out that does have the same spec
    as the 96 model. The 2.0 SRi is having its spec cut to make it cheaper.

    Vauxhall are introducing a SRi V6 2.5 litre, 24v engine version which
    has a 25% stiffer suspension, improved steering and ultra-low profile
    low rolling resistance tyres. Only external differences are twin
    tail-pipes and boot spolier.
    Launch date is 20th August 1996.
    
    I wonder what it will cost?
    
    Regards; Phil.

About �2500 for the insurance :-)

    Re .103,
    
    I am amazed.  I have found a Vauxhall dealer that is friendly, helpful, 
    responsive, efficient...
    
    An AA man told me that Gurney's of Benson (in Oxfordshire) is unlike 
    most Vauxhall dealers.  It is a family-run concern, and they care about 
    their customers.  Based on my limited experience, I can recommend them.
    
    I mentioned the vibration I have been experiencing (to which Wadham 
    Kenning responded by saying there was no fault).  Gurney's obviously 
    found there was a problem, and spoke to Vauxhall.  Apparently this is  
    a known fault (it's the exhaust pipe which vibrates), and Vauxhall is 
    working on a fix.  This is likely to involve a recall of affected 
    Vectra turbo-diesels.  You heard it first here...
    
    Ian
    
    PS - Unlike Wadham, Gurney's offered me a courtesy car.  They warned me 
    the fuel tank was likely to be empty - and it was brim full!  Guess 
    where I'll be getting all my future servicing done...

    Now that we know about Wadhams vs. Gurneys, why not tell both of them
    why you're switching service providers.
    
    It may improve Wadhams and it may encourage/reassure Gurneys.
    
    WRT Gurneys you might be surprised what telling will do to their day. 
    Garages get many more moans than they do compliments.
    
    Nick

    I agree with that last sentiment on passing on thanks to a garage. I
    had a situation where Halfords in Fareham..... (wait for the laughter
    to die down).... went beyond the call of duty to repair my car.
    
    I wrote to thank them for their help afterward. They assumed (at first)
    that they were receiving a letter of complaint, and simply passed on my
    letter to head office. I received a standard letter of reply which
    basically my letter had been noted and that teh appropriate action
    would be taken.
    
    A few days later I received a more personal effort form head office
    which explained that my letter had indeed been classed as a complaint,
    but that on second reading Hammy Halfords discovered that this sould
    have been filed under "praise".
    
    To cut a long story short, I am now on a first names basis with reception
    staff and the mechanic who (9 times out of 10) works on my car.
    
    As I said in my letter.... "I thought I had to drive an expensive
    German car to get this kind of attention"... I drive a D-reg Peugeot.
                                      
    Reargards,
    
    Stephen

    >I drive a D-reg Peugeot
    
    Stephen, they won't want to know much longer. Don't Halfords have a
    policy on working on cars over 10 years old (or was it 12) ?
    
    Royston

    Re .-1
    
    Check out replies .79, .86, .93, .101
    
    Royston

    
    Following on from the earlier RDS stream.....
    
    Vauxhall said that the RDS and the clock had been set up for German
    RDS and so wouldn't work in the UK but that they could fix it.... 
    
    I have  to confess that I doubted this and anyway I didn't want the buggers 
    pulling the dashboard about - the car rattles enough already. Imagine
    my surprise when I was in Germany last week and the clock reset itself!
    Of course now I'm back in the UK it's still an hour fast.
    
    Richard.
    

    
    I actually J Edgared my vectra the other week, I noticed that just
    behind the clutch pedal and above is a gaping chasm recessed in which
    is a steering joint, knowing that my local Vauxhall garage had replaced
    something with play in a couple of weeks ago, I took it back and
    comparing with the service managers Vectra found that to be the same!!!
    
    I would have thought that they would put a cover or something over it
    as if you try hard enough you can get your boot into it!!!, go on have
    a gander at yours!!!. 
    
    P.S. mine is a 18. 16valve and you can get it to wheel spin in second
    gear which I think shows it is quite a torque-ey motor eh!!!.
    (wont do it in 3rd though!!!!)
    
    pat

    Hi,
    
    Anybody had poor radio reception problems (MW/LW) on 4-door Vectra.
    
    It would appear that this is the only model in the Vauxhall range to
    have the car radio ariel built into the rear windscreen rather than
    use the more traditional approach of having an ariel protruding from
    the body-work !
    
    FM is fine, but then you can usually get away with a piece of wet
    string to pick up Terry Wogan or Chris Evans. However, as a keen
    listener to radio sports, especially Test Match Special, I was a bit
    disappointed to find MW/LW reception on a basic Corsa (loan car while
    mine was in for service which did have a proper ariel) was
    significantly better than my CDX Vectra. The garage are investigating
    and supposedly have contacted Vauxhall Tech Support.
    
    Colin.

    The problem is not only with Vectra's.
    
    I have a BMW 3-series with a rear screen type ariel , and the reception
    on Atlantic 252 for instance is very poor.
    
    I reckon that if the signal is poor then all that these type of antenna
    do is amplify the noise. The only advantage is that they are vandal
    proof , make the overrall appearance of the car better and must be
    cheaper to manufacture than a good electric ariel.
    
    You could retro-fit a telescopic ariel !
    
    

    
    interesting you should compare it to a Corsa... when I had problems
    with reception on my Frontera the eventual fix was to fit a modified
    Corsa ariel. Apparently the Calibra has the best ariel in the range but
    it has a washer jet built in as well, the Corsa is second best. Both of
    these have an amplifier built into the base of the ariel whereas the
    Frontera does not.
    
    Incidentally, cars which use the rear screen as an ariel usually have
    an amplifier as well  - it could be that it's not working ? i have
    heard of something similar failing on a BMW, I think the garages first
    diagnosis was that the rear screen needed replacing !
    
    Graham

    
    re .-2
    
    If you get a fix please let us know. I have a four door Vectra with
    exactly the same problem. I can't even drive round the M25 without
    losing MW and LW. It's awful. 
    
    Richard.
    
    

    My 1986 Escort Estate had a rear-window aerial which was brilliant. It
    was the entire demister element. I don't know how they did it, but I
    could get R1 (back when it was on MW), R4 and WS easily, here in
    Brussels. My current cars Pug 405 Estate and Pug 806 both have
    roof-mounted aerials which are ok, but not as good over here. Perhaps your
    aerials are optimised for FM...
    
    Cheers, Laurie.

    Re: note 2352.134, New Vectra SRi 2.5
    
    The new SRi will not be available until Nov-96, don't hold your breath.
    
    Air-Conditioning on 2.0SRi has now been deleted, although the list
    price will be reduced to reflect the change.

    LEASEPLAN are updating system with new details.
    
    Regards; Phil

Just had a look at the Preffered Car List , and all the Diesel powered Vectras
are now listed as N/A not POA , is there a move away from the Oil Burners ??



					Stuart

    Hmmm, thats rather odd. Has Vauxhall removed them from the range or put
    them on hold ?
    
    Perhaps a call to leaseplan (-830 8066) for an explanation is in order.
    
    Please report back,
    
    Royston

  
	The 1.7TDS has gone out of production and there are no prices available
	for its 2.0TDS replacement , so anyone wanting a Diesel Vectra will 
	have to wait for a while. 



					Stuart

    That explains it.
    
    I like the sound of a 2.0 TD. This is the first I've about it.
    
    Royston

    I was unable to get a Vectra brochure from Wadhams, so called into my
    local agent to pick one up.  Took a price list as well and there they
    were..the new '97 models.  All prices gone up about #600 and the 16V 2.0Di
    is in there among them.  A GLS, with air-conditioning, is #16,850, plus
    delivery.  Spoke to Peter at Wadhams, who says it will be available in
    October.  He has already ordered one for the Digital program, so's we
    can test drive it.  It has a new, true GM engine, not Isuzu like the
    old one and he reckons it develops same BHP as the 1.7TD, but the
    16V technology gives smoother, faster response and better fuel
    consumption.
    
    Lease Plan hope to have the prices soon.  Whoever tries one first...let
    us know!!
    

    
    Just taken delivery of 1.7TD (ordered in May). On checking it there
    were a few problems - tyer pressures were down , oil filler cap loose
    but the problem is the alarm. When I first had the car and as
    demostrated by Peter Owen the Alarm was acctivated on the second push
    of the button on the remote control. (the car is a GLS). After using
    the key to unlock the door (just to see how it works!) the alarm now
    sets on the first push of the button or if using the key in the drivers
    door on the first turn to the left. Also the alarm does not clear if
    using the key to unlock - as it says it should in the manual (page 48).
    
    Any help or comments?
    
    Ian.
    

    
    On mine, one push on the remote activates the central locking and 
    turns on the alarm. The same happens if I lock the door using the
    key.
    
    The second push on the remote just seems to set the immobiliser.
    
    Richard.

    I had an OMEGA on hire that had a similar problem.  I had left
    the kids in the car (asleep) for a couple of minutes with the alarm
    set.  Their movement set the alarm off.  Next time I did this I locked
    the door with the key (to avoid enabling the alarm) and the same thing
    happened.
    
    When I took the car back to Wadham Kenning they seemed suprised - said
    it was not supposed to arm the alarm without using the remote!
    
    Jc
    
    

    More problems with me vectra, on discovering the near side front wheel
    arch being splattered with some worrying looking fluid, it transpired
    that the gearbox had some gaskets gone!!, I dont think it was down to
    my style of driving, took 4 days to fix.....
    
    Just waiting for the next problem!! will have to stop driving it around
    Brands Hatch!!!!!.  pat

    Wadham Kenning told me this week that the 97 model Vectra will also
    loose the ability to connect your mobile phone to the car stereo (so
    that it uses its speakers and cuts the radio out). This will now be an
    optional extra. Earlier Vectra's had a plug down in the passenger
    footwell where the phone could be connected.

    Questions about Diesel 1.7 Vectra:
    
    1) Why no trip computer available?
    2) I get lots of rolling noise at higher speeds (seems to be wind noise
    - cos if I put it in neutral and coast it persists). Is this normal for
    the TD? Its very low freq noise.
    3) Has anyone (sigh) found a standard Vauxhall approved way to decouple
    the wash from the wipe? Failing that does anyone have a vectra circuit
    diagram they could copy for me? (seems a shame to buy a service manual
    juyst to get one!).
    
    Thanks anybody.....
    Regards
    Alan T.
    

    
    re .last
    
    That rolling noise you hear is probably tyre noise. I have a 2.0 petrol
    Vectra and the tyre roar/road noise over about 65 is unpleasant. I'm
    on my second set of tyres now (Dunlops - the originals were Firestones)
    and the noise is still just about as bad. Depressing.
    
    
    Richard.

    re .-2
    
    It seems impossible for Opel/Vauxhall to do the calculations about 
    average mpg's on the 1.7 diesel engine. At least that's what I heard
    when I asked about it at the dealer.
    
    Frits.
    

re.190:

>    That rolling noise you hear is probably tyre noise. I have a 2.0 petrol
>    Vectra and the tyre roar/road noise over about 65 is unpleasant. I'm
>    on my second set of tyres now (Dunlops - the originals were Firestones)
>    and the noise is still just about as bad. Depressing.

I have a fairly new 2.0 diesel Vectra which is very quiet on motorways and
for general cruising. Many people have said "is this really a diesel?"
including someone who borrowed it!

It can be very noisy when first started and at low-speed though!

Dave.

    I'm prett convinced now that the noise is wind noise (pause for ribald
    comments) when heading into a headwind the noise is quite bad between
    60 and 80 (depends on wind speed I spose). The noise is very loud and
    unpleasent low frequency. It doesn't happen all the time but when it
    does it really makes travelling a chore. Has noone else noticed this?
    Surely it isnt just my Vectra? If it is I wonder how I could get it
    fixed?
    
    Hmmm
    
    
    AT
    

    Sounds like badly seated doors or similar.  On my previous car, there
    was a whiny type of noise around 110. Fortunately it went away once you
    went over 125 :^)  The dealer re-seated the driver's door it it was OK
    after that.
    
    Karel.

    I had a Cavalier back in 1980/81 with this sort of problem.  Davies
    insisted it was "wind noise" but it would happen at even low speads. It
    was intermittent and did *NOT* sound like wind noise to me - much more
    like a bearing running dry.  The car eventually went back to PHH with
    this fault un-rectified.
    
    Jc
    

On my Vectra the moulding around the windscreen on the drivers side (It seems
to be a plastic strip) is gradually coming adrift starting at the topend. I keep
pushing it back, but it comes off again and in doing so creates excessive
wind noise. Its due for a service soon, so I'll see what they will do.

	Mike

Hi,

Anyone had problems withe the clock resetting to 0:00 overnight?  This has
happened to me a few times in the last couple of weeks.  The RDS and the little
clock symbol are both on, but the clock does not reset itself to the correct
time.

Any ideas?

Mike

    Mike
    
    This must be a common problem as I had this exact same problem when I
    had a Vectra demonstrator several months ago. It was a real pain. 
    
    Royston

Anyone alse had the Gearbox Seals go on there VECTRA as it seems to be a common
problem  , first signs are oily substance over the front wheels , then sticky
gear change , followed by seized gearbox .

I managed to catch mine early thus avoiding gearbox replacement .


					Stuart

    
    Oh joy of joys, that's probably what's happening to mine. A couple of
    time recently I've been unable to engage/disengage gears easily. How
    long does it take to sieze?
    
    Richard.
    

>I managed to catch mine early thus avoiding gearbox replacement .


	I didn't and the gearbox was replaced at 10,000 miles along
with disks and pads. Two days after I got the car back, I got a recall 
notice to get the gearbox seals checked. 

Ian

    Does anyone have (or is able to get) any inside informationon what the
    changes will be for the 1998 versions of the Vectra ? (Any Factory
    orders after this week will be 1998 models) - bizare that they won't
    tell you what you are ordering !!!
    
    The model I am particularly interested in, is the 2.0 GLS saloon.
    
    Thanks in advance,
    
    Adrian.