Expert answer

Hi Tom,

Bit of a tricky one to answer, that, simply because the Mokka hasn't been around for very long. It was only launched late last year. However, there are a couple of extrapolations we can make. First off, the Mokka's a new design, so there are bound to be one or two teething issues. Small niggles are likely, especially with such things as the electronics. Still, Opels are generally pretty well made. That's backed up by the fact that the Mokka uses proven hardware. The design of its 1.7 diesel engine dates back more than two decades, so any bugs should have been well and truly ironed out by now, while underneath the Mokka is essentially a Corsa hatchback, and again that's been around for a few years now without developing any major reliability issues. 

In other words, we can't say for definite yet, but it should be fine.

Expert answer

Hi Hugh,

Should be fine. Vauxhall in the UK is confident enough to offer a lifetime warranty on the same model, as long as the servicing is carried out at a main dealer, on schedule. As long as the history is on the button, you should be fine.

Expert answer

Hi Jackie,

Yes, it is highly likely that a 2008 bumper would fit your 2007 Corsa. The gearbox has no bearing on it, but if the 2008 donor is from a three-door model it's worth comparing them as closely as possible.

Expert answer

Hi Michael,

Yes, it should be. OK, so we're talking about a 12-year old car so literally anything could go wrong, but that generation of Astra was sturdy, certainly compared to the rather poor previous generation. The 1.4 petrol (I'm assuming that's the model you are looking at) is robust and quite sporty to drive and because it was never especially loaded with equipment in the first place, there's less to go wrong now. Just tread carefully, make sure there's at least some evidence of previous servicing and if it looks damaged or abused, walk away.

We can't comment on specific cars without seeing them for ourselves and likewise if you need a history or finance check we recommend you go to Cartell.ie.

Expert answer

Hi Austin,

You didn't specify the engine so here are the possibilities:

1.6 petrol 100hp: has a timing belt, to be changed every 90,000km or six years

1.8 petrol 122hp/110hp or 118hp dual fuel: same as above

1.9 diesel 120hp: has a timing belt, to be changed every 120,000km or six years

1.9 diesel 150hp: has a timing belt, to be changed every 100,000km or ten years

2.0 diesel 100hp: has a timing chain

2.0 turbo petrol 175hp: has a timing chain

2.2 diesel 125hp/117hp: has a timing chain

2.2 petrol: has a timing chain

There were larger engines again in the Vectra, but we doubt you have one of those as they are very rare.

Expert answer

Hi Maria,

The simple reason for Merivas being worth less is that they're just not as in demand as the mechanically similar Corsa. The Corsa has always been popular with learner drivers and first time car owners so its values hold up. The Meriva, as a compact MPV, just isn't as popular so its prices are softer.

As for reliability, like all Opels it's decently well made, but being a mass-market car, there are issues. The most serious of which is a persistent power steering failure, which prompted a recall, so make sure any car you're looking at has had that done. Other than that, watch for fuzzy engine management systems, broken turbos on the diesel models, fragile cabin trim and timing chains that need too much attention at low mileages.

Hope that all helps

Expert answer

Hi Robert,

A very solidly built van, the Combo, and that Fiat-GM 1.3 diesel is long-lived and has been around long enough to have had most of the kinks worked out. Just watch for timing belt guides shifting out of position, leading to possible belt failure, and the exhaust gas recirculation valve in the turbo getting sticky.

Hope that helps

Expert answer

Hi Catherine,

Of the two, I'd go for the Focus. Bigger, much better to drive and barely any less economical in day-to-day driving. That generation Corsa was pretty crude, really - noisy and not especially nice to drive.

They're both pretty robust though, which is good, although you should check the Focus carefully for underbody rust as some early cars had very poor weather sealing.

Let us know how you get on.

Expert answer

Hi Karl,

No, the 1.2 (actually it's a 1.3 really) diesel in the Opel Combo is the same unit that Opel co-developed with Fiat, so it should have either 75- or 90hp and plenty of torque. Clearly, a larger engine means you can haul larger payloads, but unless you're a gym weights delivery company, you should be OK.

Expert answer

Hi Ciaran,

Yes. We like the Insignia and it does a pretty good impression of an Audi A4 for a lot less money. As with any long-run mass-produced car, keep an eye out for faults and while the Insignia is well built, gearbox and steering issues are not unheard of. The 2.0-litre CDTi diesel engine is the best one to go for, especially in ECOFlex form as it's in Band A for road tax and if you can track down one of the gorgeous and practical estates. you're on to a winner.

Let us know how you get on