Zafira 1999 - 2005
This Astra-based seven-seater was Vauxhall's surprise package upon its launch in 1999.
Its innovative 'Flex 7' seat-folding technology was a forerunner for many of today's flexible people carriers, putting it ahead of its peers in terms of use of space, while its compact size means it's a good drive, too.
The Zafira is a great choice for the family buyer in need of practical versatility and a bit of fun.
However, with all of them in place, there's only really enough room for children in the rearmost seats. The chassis is beginning to show its age alongside rivals, but the Zafira's safe handling is ideal for drivers who want stability and predictable road manners.
Best buy is the 2.0 DTi, launched in July 2000. The GSi Turbo is good, but it's costly to run and the ride is very hard.
What to look out for
- Engines: all powerplants can use large amounts of oil, especially during the first 10,000 miles or so - Vauxhall says up to a litre of oil needs to be put in every 1,000 miles. Make sure this has been done. Check for signs of a smoking exhaust.
- Interior: check the condition of the interior trim - these cars are often used for carrying children, so the upholstery is likely to have taken a fair amount of abuse. Dirty marks will be easy to fix, rips and tears less so.
- Spare wheel: it has been known for spares to have been stolen - they are mounted under the back of the car behind the rear axle.
- Brakes: rear brake can seize. The best way to check them is to jack up the back of the car with the handbrake disengaged, then try to turn the wheels by hand. Any resistance will need attention.
- Footwells: the front footwells can fill up with water due to the bulkhead springing a leak, thanks to poorly fitting seals. This needs to be fixed by someone who knows what they're doing - so a trip to a Vauxhall dealer is on the cards.
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Recalls
April 2000: Possibility of fuel leakage (X20DTL diesels built Jan-Dec 2000).
December 2000: Potential fuel leak (cars built Jan 2000-Dec 2001).
August 2002: Possible contamination of brake fluid (chassis W0L0TGF7522 199742- W0L0TGF7522229096).
