Hi all, I'm Jamie. I have been a member on cavmk3oc for about 2 years had a few Vauxhalls now mainly all cavaliers, My daily car is a 1998 Calibra SE9.
I'm on the hunt now for a Cav Turbo willing to spend upto 4.5k for the right car. Just wanted to ask a few Qs about the main problems with them as people keep saying they need constant work to keep on the road, Even see it in some for sale adds. What are the most common things that could go wrong during my ownership?
I have just recently become a Turbo owner too after a long hunt for the right car and spending too much money on my last car, but I turned 30 and said to myself if I don't get one soon I am never going to get one.
I am loving it so far, but it does need bits doing to it and I paid strong money. So expect to spend on the most tidiest of cars.
Must common issue is the transfer box, but a lot are running locking rings now. There are loads of other common faults, but I will let one of the regulars list them
1994 Polar Sea Blue Cavalier Turbo 4x4 - Total Vauxhall cover car (Jan 2015 / Issue 170)
Yeah as you are aware they are an oldish car, relatively rare and respectable power so expect niggles...
Some cheap and some not so cheap
Bound to be plenty of buyers guides, my main concerns now if I was looking at one would be general condition, bodywork, paint conditions and arches... Underside and what the body kit hides
Porous head always a possibility
Transfer box issues, I'd be very keen to ensure four wheel drive works as they just drive better IMO
Smoking turbos etc
Smaller stuff is generally shared across the Cav range so generally easily got and cheap from factors or second hand
