Sorry - this is OT - but I need to address the negativity expressed...
colm_mcm wrote:optical illusion wrote:Really, what kind of problems?
I've heard a lot about particle filters not regenerating, dealers having to do forced regenerations (there's only so many of these you can do before it needs to be replaced) a lot of electrical gremlins like problems with central locking, radios, info displays,
The factory pads and discs are said to only last 30k, panel fit pretty dodgy up front.
clutches going before the first service. I think the electronic handbrakes fitted to some models are troubles too..
An inconvenience on a new car but bloody scary on used. I heard of some early ones being bought back by vauxhall as they couldn't find a fix for some engine fault. I can't remember the specifics though. It has to be said that vauxhall uk are a lot more than opel for issues as they're such a big player in the fleet market.
The entire new range of diesels come with specific instructions into what to do when a specific dash-light comes on indicating that the particle filter needs a cleanse. I know this because there's a New Model Astra sitting in the drive.
If it has failed under warrenty it would have been replaced - verify this when you research the car.
Panel Fit is something you'd be able to visually inspect.
Pads & disc is something I personally would replace with larger equipment regardless of age (Have v6 discs, calipers and pads on the vectra) if at all possible...in any case replacing like for like (if that's your want) the cost is minimal, and not a reason (imo) to discount an otherwise good deal.
Clutches going before the 1st service I believe would be covered under the manufactures warranty - which on a car imported from the uk is longer than the one provided on vehicles purchased in Ireland (and it was transferable last I checked). Make sure it's been addressed on any vehicle considered.
Yes - issues with a new cars happen - but jaysus - even toyota are having them these days - and also in general there are more things that can do wrong with Diesels than Petrol cars..does that mean we all drive Petrol cars?
There is no such thing as a faultless car - fact!
Agreed - it's important to do the research before buying a car - BUT should you be put off when you learn that things aren't all roses?
Personally I'd be far more alarmed if I wasn't able to find any imperfections/flaws because I wouldn't have confidence in the results.
When issues are identifiable they can be addressed.
I guess there are different ways of buying 2nd hand cars - I know I'm tempting fate here, and I'm knocking on wood just now - this far I haven't had any issues that I hadn't expected.
/2cents
Got a lend of a company car to tide me over until all is sorted, Opel Vectra, not a bad yoke but feels a lot heavier than the Octavia... I'm not sure what the insurers will give for the car, somewhere between 4-6K I'd reckon.... 
