Vauxhall Meriva road tests and consumer car reviews

Vauxhall Meriva 2004

I bought my Meriva 4 years ago and for the first 2 years it was great. In the last 2 years it has been problem after problem. First the ECU went, which was very very expensive to fix. Next the front shock absorbers went and now the engine management light has come on. I have taken it in for a diagnositic check only to find out No.3 cylinder has no compression. This, I have been told, could cost me a grand!! I am not happy with this car and would never touch a Vauxhall again, I would rather catch the bus!!

Vauxhall Meriva 2008

I do not yet have a problem with the steering, but I am having problems with the notorious blind spot and windsreen wiper on the driver’s side. It does not clear the whole screen and further obstructs my vision. I am having to lean forward and follow the road round to keep myself and pedestrians safe. I too had a near miss driving in the snow because the wiper does not completely clean the windscreen. I have parked it and I’m desperately looking for a buyer.

Vauxhall Meriva 2006

This car is an absolute disaster. Please test drive this car in dry, wet and snowy weather before purchasing it. The thick pillars on either sides disrupts periferal vision. The right windscreen on the right stops 4-5 ins from the edge therefore a film of water/snow forms, further obstructing the driver’s vision. On many occasions I have had to get out of the car and use a squeegee to clear the windscreen. I have had two near accidents due to the notorious blind spot and I cannot wait to sell this car.I have been told that the windscreen wiper was designed not to clear the whole windscreen and has passed safety checks. Is anyone else having a problem with their wipers? Can we all send a petition to Vauxhall?

Vauxhall Meriva 1.7 SE cdti auto 100ps 2010

I have now owned this car, a Meriva B for just 7 weeks. When purchased it was just under one year old and had covered only 11400 miles. Pros: The doors are great and open to 90 degrees. They auto lock once you are traveling above 2mph. The six speed auto box is very smooth and being able to change manually is handy. The cabin area and instruments are well laid out and it feels a nice place to be. The moonroof makes the interior feel even bigger. The engine pulls smoothly and has plenty of torque. There is much more legroom for two rear passengers than previous models. Cons: The speedo seems to be more than the legal 10% above your actual speed. We have to travel at an indicated 79mph to be doing 70mph.(If the speed is miles out then surely the trip meter is wrong as well?) The computer states we are averaging over 40mpg but when refuelling I calculated 33.8mpg. The center console is a bit of a pain as it restricts the feet of any center rear passenger. No spare wheel; I bought a spare wheel, but cannot get a tyre as the manufacturers do not have any. My main gripe is fuel consumption and yes I know it’s an auto but 34mpg from a modern diesel engine is abysmal. Most of our driving is urban I would not even like to think how low the mpg would drop driving in town.

Vauxhall Meriva Meriva SE 1400 2011

I had a Meriva before and the latest model is a vast improvement on the last one. I am extremely happy with the SE and found it very comfortable compared to the previous model. It takes a few minutes to get to know the various switches etc, but it is very stylish and a joy to drive. I am particulary impressed with the parking warning signs, it is a little larger than the older model and it is a lot better for it. Overall I cannot find any faults whatsover and I am very happy with it.

Vauxhall Meriva SE 140 PS 2011

I read the reports, read the reviews, stuck with my gut feelings and placed my order. Sixteen weeks later I got my car. I got the dealer to fit mud flaps and colour coded side door protectors; they make the difference. I have had the car two months. The biggest puzzle? What planet are the professional motor critics sitting on? If I had taken any notice of those people I would never have bought this lovely car. Its comfort, build quality and especially its performance surpass all my expectations. Somehow, I get the feeling those critics have never heard of using third gear to reach the higher plateau (probably stuck in Fifth or even Top Gear for that matter). What choice petrol or diesel? For urban miles and occasional motorway work - petrol. For high mile motorway work - diesel. My previous 4 cars; lovely Zafiras. My Meriva B? Icing on the Vauxhall Cake.

Vauxhall Meriva 2003

I’ve just bought a Meriva and thought I was getting a bargain when I saw it had 12 mths mot on it. Ha ha! What a joke. I’ve had it just a week and the EPS light has appeared, with loss of steering. By reading previous reviews this appears to be a common problem. I didn’t buy it from Vauxhall, but it’s booked in for a free diagnostics and if a certain error code appears, they are going to repair the problem for free, so I’m playing a waiting game at the moment. Hopefully there will be light at the end of the tunnel, but it’s put me off the car completely.

Responses to this review

Yes, this fault was made public on Watchdog or similar. Potentially dangerous fault, with some crashes reported but Vauxhall didn’t do recall. However, I have an ’05 Meriva and checked with local dealer, who identified it was one of the models affected. New parts were fitted free of charge with no problems, no hassle, within a couple of weeks, so hopefully you’ll be okay. The Meriva is still a great car but mine’s suffered front suspension, tracking, alignment problems. Otherwise a great workhorse - Keith Arksey from Northumberland

Yes, it was one of the models affected and I have had all new fitted for free, I now have a continuous problem with engine management light, and it only fires on three when this happens, but it’s always the same spark plug. What causes this? - Lucy from England

Vauxhall Meriva 2007

A great little car, although I do have a few complaints: The radio comes on automatically when the ignition is turned on, there is no indication light on dash to show side/headlights are on and is now starting to get problems with E.P.S, which seems to be an expensive problem to correct (£500).

Responses to this review

There was a steering fault reported a while ago on Watchdog or similar, potentially dangerous fault on power steering. It could fail without warning. I contacted my local dealer who organised a replacement without fuss and without cost. New parts fitted within a couple of weeks of calling them - Keith Arksey from Northumberland

Vauxhall Meriva 2011

I’ve just rented this car and I must say I find it very bad usability wise. The electric break is bizarre and makes me feel unsafe, the dashborad is a mess, the gears don’t work too well and the great door system does not compensate for any of that. Plus I have to duck down to see the traffic lights. Glad I will only have to drive the thing for a week. I hope to be able to return it in one piece and never to see another one of these again.

Responses to this review

My parents have just bought the new Meriva, I loved the suicide doors, but the parking brake is awful. What were Vauxhall thinking?! I was going to drive it but when I saw the problems my dad has driving this nightmare with the silly braking system, I said "no way". It does not feel secure enough for me, give me an old fashioned brake any day. The upside is that it’s great on fuel, just depends on if you like driving a bus - Sam from Sussex

Vauxhall Meriva 2006

I bought a second-hand Meriva from my local Vauxhall dealer. It’s a 2006 Plate. I’ve had it 2yrs now and recently had a problem with my power steering. I was told by the service centre at Vauxhall that it’s a problem with the Meriva of that year but reading what others have written this isn’t the case. It’s dangerious. I was driving round town when mine went; what if you were driving on a busy motorway? Even though my car has had a new steering system I have lost all confidence in driving my car. Lucky for me my car was covered under warranty, not everyone is that lucky. I intend to change my car and it won’t be a Vauxhall.

Vauxhall Meriva 1.7 CDtI 2011

This car has some very good points, plenty of space etc., but the electric handbreak, initially, was badly adjusted; safe hill starts were impossible, without ’heal and toe’ footwork. Vauxhall must have taken leave of their senses to fit a clutch which needs a 20kg (44Lbs) push, and operates at the top of its travel; a new one was fitted after 1300 miles, with a marginally lower bite point, but still very heavy. The engine, at 130ps, has plenty of power, and tows a light caravan without blinking. The dashboard is hopeless; the radio controls take preference over heating, AC etc.etc.; the controls aren’t tactile, and the tiny white on black lettering is ridiculous. The speedo is barely legal, to achieve 70mph needs 77-78 mph on the clock. If you complain to Vauxhall you’ll get nowhere, their customer service people work to their scripts and suggest all problems relate, not to the car, but to the driver. This is our 5th Vauxhall and it’s certainly the last. Vauxhall have tried to do something good, with loads of bells and whistles, especially traction and cruise control, but haven’t paid enough attention to the fine details; even the handbook has some glaring errors in it; perhaps I shouldn’t have read it.

Vauxhall Meriva 2005

A good little car. I’ve had mine 2 years and have driven to my daughter’s in Scotland in it. It’s good on petrol and I love it.

Vauxhall Meriva Design 2008

I have finally just sold my Vauxhall Meriva..phew! As other reviewers have stated, the steering kept switching off and the only way you could sometimes fix it was to switch off the engine and restart it. The amount of scary moments I have had driving it when you can’t turn the wheel, the worst was on a roundabout! Add to that it always kept veering slightly to the left (yes the tracking was checked). The other design ’fault’ is the mpg, I just can’t work out how a 1.6 8v vehicle was only getting 27mpg!!! It was costing a fortune to fill it up, and yes 2 garages checked it out and there was no leak or problem... apart from the design! Put it this way, I have just upgraded to pure luxury in a Chrysler Grand Voyager, which is massive with electric sliding doors and boot, a dvd player with a screen in the back with wireless headphones. Heated leather seats, heated electric folding mirrors, 6 cd/dvd changer and another slot for 1 more cd in the sat nav. Dual zone a/c, cruise control. Seats in the front and middle row with arm rests, and all the seats fold into the floor easily with loads and loads of room, etc. It weighs over 2 tons and is bigger than most parking spots yet does more mpg than the tiddly Meriva I used to run about in. It just doesn’t make sense. I pity the fool who purchases the car from the dealer as it’s an expensive to run death trap that should have been recalled.

Vauxhall Meriva Life 2011

I’m disappointed that there is no jack brace or spare wheel supplied. Otherwise this car is quite good and quiet running.

Vauxhall Meriva 2011

I have given this "NEW" car just 3 stars so far. I bought this car brand new with just 6 miles on the clock. I am going to call it "TITANIC", if I keep it. On its maiden journey, only 1 day before we were due to go to the south coast for a week’s holiday, on a return journey from Morton in Marsh, the engine just stopped. This happened at 2:30PM, at 12:00 Friday midnight, we were finally towed into the dealers garage in Bristol from where we bought it. This happened about 10 days after buying it with only 203 miles on the clock. The dealer who suplied the car loaned me a replacement and then a second one and maybe there will be a third, but at this stage a week after they attempted to rectify the fault, it has still not returned it to me. They say its to do with the electrics, on the injection system, awaiting spares from the planet Mars considering the time it is taking.

Responses to this review

Did your Meriva get repaired? I have a new 11 plate Meriva and the same thing has happened to mine, causing a three car pile up. Awaiting to see what Vauxhall are going to do about it - C S from Wales

Vauxhall Meriva 2003

I have had a steering problem with my 53 plate Meriva; intermittant loss of steering. I took it to a Vauxhall specialist and they quoted me £1500+ steering column and motor! I couldnt afford it so decided to do some research on the internet and found it was a common manufacturing fault so rang Vauxhall head office who told me I had to ring Vauxhall customer services. I spoke to a polite gentleman who told me I had to book my car into a Vauxhall main dealer and would have to pay for the diagnostic test, if the result was a manufacturing fault then they would repair it free of charge! Which I have done and yes it was a manufacturing fault so I am now waiting for Vauxhall to ring me when they have ordered the parts and will book the car in to be fixed. I am very relieved otherwise I would have a car with a MOT failure, which I wouldn’t be able to afford to pay for it to be fixed and left with a car that was worth less than the cost of the repairs!

Responses to this review

I have just had the steering column replaced F.O.C. Seems okay at the moment. Fingers crossed - John from England

Vauxhall Meriva 1.4 petrol 2010

Rented one of these and felt strongly about it, keen to share with others who might look to be buying. Used this fairly heavily for a week. Plus points: Spacious and light with good rear visibility, good smooth gearbox and easy displays. Loads of space inside. Nice skylight roof. Minus points: Annoying, fiddly unlock mechanism for keyfob and tailgate drove me mad. Pointless electric handbrake a step back from manual in every way. Flashy light on dash every time electrics think I need to change gear. Gutless engine, cant see how it would cope on an incline with fitted cruise control. This would have to be a cheap buy to make it worthwhile. Gimmick rear doors don’t amend for gaping weaknesses.

Vauxhall Meriva 2003

I think that the Meriva looks great but it’s a whole different matter driving one. I have had the car a year now and can’t wait to get rid of it. It lacks power, it’s noisey, feels quite tinny like it needs to grow a back bone!!! On the plus side the space is great inside, it’s just a shame that Vauxhall didn’t put more thinking power in to the engine and mechanical workings of the vehicle. Vehicle cut out on me twice on the motorway with a car full of small children ...had the problem fixed free of charge but only because my Husband threw the keys at the dealer and was prepared to walk away from it and leave it there!! My advice...NEVER BUY ONE...go for a good old reliable Ford!!!

Vauxhall Meriva Energy 2010

Just got the car as a replacement for a crashed Fiat. I am 6’5" and space is often a problem for me - but not in the Meriva. Both my wife and I (and our four kids) are surprised how Vauxhall have managed to squeeze so much space out of what is a small car. Our other car is a Grand Espace so we are used to BIG, but the Meriva can hold its own without any problem. If I had to think of negatives, then the 1.4 engine is a bit weak and it really needs a 6th gear.... Good range of vision, nice driving position, ok fuel economy, good build quality, and the kids love the almost black tinted windows.

Vauxhall Meriva 2005

I own a 55 Reg Vauxhall Meriva. It was fine until a few months ago. I had a problem with my steering column. It would lose the PAS even sometimes on roundabouts. The Merivas had not been recalled by Vauxhall, but it seems is a common problem. A friend of mine had the same problem. I saw it mentioned on Watchdog and contacted the telephone number they gave. I had the problem sorted out no problem by a Vauxhall dealer near my home. Free of charge. Since then, I have had the Cam Shaft loosen and I have been told by another garage that I am lucky it did not do more damage to the engine. I did a search online and it seems this is also a common problem although the Meriva is not being recalled by Vauxhall. Apparantly Vauxhall are not helping customers as a rule with this financially, which I do not understand as they fixed my steering problem. Surely this is a dangerous fault and should be recalled?

Responses to this review

I have a 55 plate Meriva and have experienced exactly the same problem. My camshaft bolt snapped and three days later, I received a recall letter. This is obviously a big issue. Has anyone else had the same problem? - Gillian from Lanarkshire

Hi, can you tell me when your Meriva was recalled? When you took the car in over the EPS fault, did they rectify that free of charge? - David Morton from England

I have had my Meriva eight months (second hand) and have experienced the intermitten loss of power steering. It has done it quite a few times. I have to turn the engine off and on again. It normally fixes it but I have had a quote from a Vauxhall specialist to replace the steering column, steering motor and control unit. Including labour, the total cost was £1576.20! I have just got off the phone to Vauxhall’s customer service centre and they have told me to take it to a Vauxhall main dealer and I have to pay for another diagnostic test (£48) and if it’s the manufacturing fault that they know about they will fix it free of charge. My car’s booked in next Tuesday so I will update you on what happens Vauxhall know about this fault and its an MOT failure due to safety, so why are they not recalling ALL vauxhall Merivas with this problem and fixing them? Well, fingers crossed... - Sue Austin from Dorset

Hi Linda, thank you for posting your fault. My wife has just purchased a 2004 Meriva as a runaround and the steering locked on her. This really shook her up but I’m just glad she wasn’t on a roundabout, only had it one day. The garage has agreed to send it for a diagnostic test, just waiting for them to get back to us. I will let you know the outcome - Garry Mortimer from Yorkshire

Vauxhall Meriva 2006

Eps system is continually cutting out, definitely a manufacturing fault. I would not buy again.

Responses to this review

Have you reported this to Watchdog? After reading your review and comments from other people, it seems quite a valid reason to report. I have just bought the same model too, and have written to Watchdog. The problem has not affected me yet but want to be safe - Noreen Salman from Leicestershire

Vauxhall Meriva 1.4 Breeze 2008

I have just got a 08 1.4 Meriva to replace the 1.6 8 valve. I had and the fuel consumption is 42/49 mpg, better than the 30/35 I was getting.

Vauxhall Meriva Energy 2009

A very versatile vehicle which converts easily from car to van by folding the rear seats down, ideal for a family where DIY is of interest and bulky items need to be transported. Also, great for when we tour Scotland and need to take food supplies to remote locations. A comfortable ride and, with the 1.6 petrol engine it is reasonable lively for this type of vehicle. Downsides are the thick A post which you have to look round when making sharp turns. I also understand that the steering column switch which controls the power steering can fail at approx 40,000 miles (but I have paid for an extra 2 years Vauxhall warrantee - just in case). I would definitely buy this model again.

Vauxhall Meriva 2010

This is my 3rd Meriva and I have been very happy with all of them. All cars were brand new, I only kept them about 2 Years.

Vauxhall Meriva 2003

I bought my Meriva 2 years ago, and a couple of months after it starting stalling and juddering when driving, took it back to the dealer and he replaced a part and fault gone. Now 2 years later the same fault is back, took it to my local garage they say its the EGR valve; it’s been back twice for them to reset it with their computer. They expect it to go again. Upon reading stories it appears there is a fault with the ECU software. It appears this happens to a lot to Vauxhall cars and so I would not recommend buying this car.

Vauxhall Meriva 2010

Sluggish performer in larger diesel - god knows what the smaller one is like. Pull? Skin & rice pudding come to mind! I can’t believe anyone would design a car with suicide doors. They went out with the ark! Dashboard needs sorting. Driving position OK & roadholding quite good. But, oh, those rear doors ! I’ll never buy another!

Vauxhall Meriva 1.6cc 2005

Powered steering has come out of action twice whilst driving and having to turn sharply. Almost impossible to steer when out of action. TV criticsized this action on many cars. BIG PROBLEM when driven by elderly persons. Is there a recall for modernisation or replacement? Would not recommend to any body because I consider it a very dangerous situation whilst driving and power steering comes out. I found by switching electrics OFF for two minutes power comes back on. Not very good on motorways. Have taken to a Vauxhall Garage and they have stated "Nothing to worry about, just stop and switch off your engine fo two minutes then it woks again" What are you comments on this situation, when you suddenly have no power steering and struggle to steer for stopping purposes whilst in traffic?

Responses to this review

My daughter’s Meriva has same prob, spoke to watchdog team and they said the first step is to take it to a main dealer and have it tested?? Thing is it’s an intermittent fault so what will this achieve? - Alan Hare from England

Vauxhall Meriva 1.4 Turbo 2010

Stride easily into the new Meriva and settle yourself - commandingly - in the driving seat. At the helm it feels cosy and manageable, but there is enough airy, comfortably spacious room to shame the plushest of cars in a class above: just normal curves and context and no bio cuddly excesses in a cabin that is so intelligently fashioned. From the outset you’re aware that this is a solidly constructed car with real depth of quality. With the Meriva, Vauxhall has broken new ground in space efficiency with interior packaging that offers enough permutations of transformability to confuse an Enigma Machine. And yet the class-leading inner space is matched with compact external dimensions in a particularly elegant and refined form, which is so much more attractive than the old ’boxy shape’ model. This combination of function and flair has been taken to new levels, defining a fresh perspective in logical rational car design and embodying key features such as rearward opening back doors just like your neighbour’s Rolls Royce - and all doors open to nearly ninety degrees. It’s the Flex Door System according to Vauxhall - which matches the Flex Rail System for the centre console. There’s probably even a Flex Biceps System too - but readers will be reassured to know that the new Meriva is simply - ’flexible’. Entry into and egress from the new Meriva just has to be the easiest of all cars. There’s even a grab handle on the B pillar to aid the process of easing yourself out if you’re not very flexible. My game warden pal on holiday from the Serengeti National Park assures me that, in his professional opinion, an inflexible hippopotamus in a state of rigor mortis could be gracefully eased aboard. ’Aha! The old ’suicide doors’, just like in the gangster movies when they pushed the ’stiff ’ out at speed. I wouldn’t put granny in the back of one of those!’. I hear you say. Well, I’m pleased to be able to reassure you that all is well, because you can’t open them at anything more than 2mph. - so if you need to bail out in a hurry, you’ll just have to slow down. Out on the road the driving experience is a good one. It’s not meant to be a drivers delight but by and large it’s an endearing car you can trust with friendly handling and good grip combined with a pliant ride - offering a complete feeling of reassurance and charming manners. A choice from petrol engines of 1.4, 1.6 or 1.8 - or diesels of 1.3 or 1.7 and prices ranging from £12,995 to nearly £20,000 means that there should be a Meriva to suit most needs. Probably the most popular will be the 120bhp 1.4 petrol turbo tested here. A singular pleasure is the way the little engine is flexible - but it’s no greyhound. It gathers speed respectably enough all the way to a top speed of about 117mph but the rather slow and heavy gear change makes you realise that performance considerations have not been at the top of the agenda: this is definitely a family car. Well designed, well constructed and - well - expensive, the new Meriva is light years ahead of the previous model - which is probably why the price is stratospheric.

Vauxhall Meriva 2005

I’ve had my ’old’ Meriva since new and - touch wood- its been a good workhorse, humping stuff here and there, which is what I bought it for. It’s just sailed through its 3rd MOT. Whilst at the garage I tested the NEW Meriva. Won’t be getting it though...biggest shock.NO HANDBRAKE! Call me old-fashioned but having a gaping hole where the handbrack used to be just for the gimicky sake of extra storage is mad.

Vauxhall Meriva 2005

I bought this Vauxhall Meriva in March this year, 30.000 on the clock and have done very little mileage since owning it. Had to take a trip up north a few days ago, 3/4 hr into journey, the engine stopped, temp guage wasn’t showing hot. Pulled over, saw steam/smoke coming from under the bonnet. Opened bonnet and things seemed pretty hot under there. Roadside recovery came out, he pointed out the water res’ was empty, although I had topped it up that morning before the trip. He then followed the hose around and pointed out that it had popped off. The jublie clip that is supposed to hold the end of the hose in place, was half way down the hose. It looked like it had been there a while, bit rusty and when he moved it to where it was supposed to have been, there was an indentation in the hose. Today I have been told that there is water in the cylinder head? I went on to speak about the findings of the hose and was told it doesn’t matter where the jublie clip is placed. This can’t be right surely - if the clip had been in the correct place, it wouldn’t have popped off the way it did and water would not have gone everywhere? My car has warranty, 12 months when purchased in March, cover £600. Now this car had a full service when purchased, surely hoses are checked??

Vauxhall Meriva 1.7cdti 2006

My 2006 Meriva 1.7cdti has just let me down. Just done 50,000 miles and seemed to be going well. But today the steering packed up and the E.P.S. light came on. How dangerous is that??? I managed to get the vehicle to the local main Dealer (You could almost see the service manager rubbing his hands with glee....) and I had to leave it with them. Since reading all the comments on the web it seems that this is a very common fault/design fault? I believe that the bill could be as much as £2000 so I am not amused. This appears to be a well known fault with Meriva models BUT Vauxhall do not want to acknowledge they have a poor car. As a retired Police Traffic Officer I think that Vauxhall KNOW they have a problem with the E.P.S. and should deal with it. Issue the recall and keep all the Vauxhall drivers happy or you could find that no one buys your cars anymore!!!!!

Responses to this review

I also have problems with my steering and my e.p.s light coming on the other day this happened on a very sharp left hand bend the steering went solid and I just managed to control the car. I don’t know how they can get away with this obvious problem? I will never own another Vauxhall!!!! - Stewart Cox from Essex

After going through the same problems with my ESP light and engine management light, I decided enough is enough, I’m taking no more risks and I’ve part exed my car for Ford. I can now top up my own steering fluids check my brake fluid and hopefully have worry free driving without all the electrical gadgets that controls or more to the point don’t control Vauxhalls. I would never recommend Vauxhall aftercare, they claim there are no codes registered in the car and if they agree to fix your issues my god at a cost, that cost was my difference for part exing - Clarissa Jones from Caerphilly

The EPS on our 04 Meriva 1.7 cdi also has this fault. It will go fine for months with no problem then suddenly go. Yesterday it was a nightmare as we were driving on the motorway in France and it just kept dropping out every few miles. It’s all very well saying turn it off for 2 minutes but their motorways don’t have hard shoulders like ours so it was a case of plodding on in the hope of finding a safe place to stop. Is it just on the diesel or is it just this year as my daughters 06 1.4 petrol has, touch wood, never had the problem? She won’t drive ours anymore as it happened when she was driving and frightened the life out of her. Why won’t Vauxhall admit it is their fault and fix it? Val Hughes from London

Vauxhall Meriva Design 1.8 16v 2005

Have had this car from new and love it, it does everything I want from a car except... At nearly 3 years old and very low mileage the steering column needed replacing, luckily under warranty, as it was rattling at low speeds. In fact it sounded like the wheels were going to drop off. 6 months later familiar noise back again, needed a new steering rack and track rods - guess what? Vauxhall didn’t want to know, garage eventually went 50/50 with me after a fight. Now 11 months later I am told the familiar rattling is yet another steering column needing replacing, another £900. Accordingly to Vauxhall it is because I have to drive over speed bumps - well hello, who doesn’t? I can’t get within a mile of my house without going over some and no I am not stupid on them. Surely trading standards should have something to say about a car not built for purpose - who can avoid humps nowadays? Garage tell me it is not a constant problem on Merivas - the websites tell me otherwise. Surely they must have changed the steering on the new model but no one can tell me that Vauxhall seem to be holding those cards very close to their chests interestingly enough. Would I buy another one - yes I would but only if someone can actually truthfully answer that question. Love the car, hate their lies and complete lack of integrity about the issues.

Responses to this review

Forgot to add - still not even got to 21,500 miles on it!! Carolyn Osgood from England

Hi, yes I had a 55 reg and all the same problems. I have a 07 reg now - all the problems are gone - Krissie from Sussex

Mine is a 08 with 9000 miles on. I heard a noise - it was the steering rack. Vauxhall fixed it straight away. I am pleased and love the car but there is no aux in it. It is a Meriva Design 1.4 - Steven Batty from Yorkshire

I learned to drive in a Vauxhall and rated them highly; 2 of my cars have been Vauxhall. Although I am highly disappointed with them now. I bought a 2003 Meriva 1.6 in March. Got it for £2600 with part-ex and thought I’d bought a bargain! However, I am never going back to the dealer again (Budget Cars, Spalding) as his after-sales care is rubbish. I got 3 months AA warranty free but of course, as soon as the problems started (within a week of buying the car!) the dealer wouldn’t touch it as ’the problems weren’t covered by the warranty’. Like a lot of people on here it seems, I have a problem with the steering - whenever I am parking, the steering wheel goes incredibly stiff and jerks in my hand - as though it’s playing tug of war with me - and the EPS light comes on. After stopping and starting the car the problem goes away, until next time I try to turn a lot. A couple of times the EPS light has come on out of the blue resulting in me not being able to steer. Scary! Luckily on both occasions I have been able to pull over safely in order to restart but I don’t feel safe driving it anymore. Went to a garage today and he told me about the common problem with the steering column, and something about an angle sensor I think he said. Going to cost me in the region of £500!! My mechanic has suggested that I get in touch with Vauxhall to see if they’ll help me out financially - with it being such a common problem. I doubt it but it’s worth a try... There are other problems - Exhaust Gas Recirculation valve needs replacing, clutch needs replacing and there’s an issue with the locking mechanism. I’m tempted to get onto watchdog or trading standards about the steering problem - needs sorting before Vauxhall kills someone! - Lyndsey from Lincolnshire

OMG! OMG! it sounds like you own my car! Everything you explain is exact and wait for it... a new clutch for mine is about 700 pound!!! I think we have all been mugged! - Stewart Cox from Essex

Luckily we bought the 5 year maintenance protection with ours, I thought it was just me with this problem but just seen that Watchdog are featuring it. I tried to move out the way of an oncoming vehicle quickly and the steering just went, luckily we missed, if I turn the ignition off and on it works. We took to Vauxhall, they replaced the steering rack, when I asked how it happened on a car that’s only done 36000 miles they said holes in road due to snow fall and speed humps. Going to take our car back to Vauxhall before warranty runs out I think - Cheryl Hill from Surrey

Vauxhall Meriva 17CDTi 2004

Don’t know about the NEW Meriva but let’s hope Vauxhall have sorted out the power steering problem found in some previous models. My daughter bought a 2004 17CDTi model which sporadically looses it’s power steering when driving. Vauxhall will not contribute to the cost of replacing the faulty motor, which they have quoted at over £1200. Nice one Vauxhall, none of my family will ever buy a Vauxhall again.

Responses to this review

They were on watchdog and are now replacing steering column, give them a ring on 08450902044 - Adele Tagg from England

Vauxhall Meriva Design 1.6 2009

I bought my Meriva 1.6 Design from Park’s of Dreghorn. I lost power steering on 2 occasions almost immediately in the first month after purchase, which almost killed me. The second time thankfully my children were not in the car at the time!. I was offered a like for like swap but the offers were nowhere near a like for like. I complained to the finance company who sent out a DEKRA engineer who said there was no problem. I am now experiencing problems again 8 months on, over/under steering going round corners/roundabouts and tugging at the wheel whilst sitting idle. I have always sang Vauxhall’s praise due to owning a few cavaliers in the past but i would NEVER EVER recommend them to anyone now. I have never felt so unsafe in a car in my 20 years driving. Very disappointing!

Vauxhall Meriva 2010

I haven’t bought one of these cars. I’ve just seen the advert, which focusses on features such as the front-opening rear doors. Bearing this in mind, picture what is likely to happen the next time your kids sit in the back and don’t close the door properly...

Responses to this review

Been Driving one for a week, and ref the doors... As soon as you drive off, there is an alarm that sounds if any of the doors are not shut properly. As soon as the car hits 2mph the doors lock. My big dislike is the stupid handbrake (lack of) Uses an electronic push button affair - John from England

Vauxhall Meriva 2006

I bought a second hand Meriva. It was lovely for three months then it started to go wrong the emissions light came on, kept taking it back to the dealer Archy Moss, this went on for 9 months and as there was a year’s warranty thought that would fix the prob. No chance. At the end of the year they said I had run out of time and that I needed a new ECU at the cost to me £920 + vat, no way so then took it to another Vauxhall garage and they said it was not the ECU but was not sure what it was. I have taken it to another garage and they now tell me after having it tested and paying £50 pound each time on their machine that is what is wrong with my car is it needs the turbo boost replacing, so now its not the ECU the Baromectric pressure sensor, boot pressure sensor...so hang on then, what is it? By now this could have cost me 3 Grand if I had replaced all that they had said and it would still not be working? Then to cap it all the steering had to be replaced as it was getting stiff reversing in and out of tight places and had to turn off the engine as it was sounding crunchy and completely froze.

Vauxhall Meriva 2007

Been a good car but fuel consumpsion is poor, 30 - 35 mpg. Also just got it back from garage after the main ECU (brain) packed in, a cost of £531 to get repaired. Might not buy Vauxhall again.

Vauxhall Meriva 2004

The steering on my Meriva 1.6 life with only 32,000 miles went stiff whilst parking and EPS light came on. After taking to Vauxhall for diagnoses was told that it was unsafe to drive now the problem of replacing the steering sensor/torque at a price of £664 had been diagnosed, so due to having young children paid by credit card to get job done. Emailed Vauxhall to complain of safety aspect and was told there was no safety aspect so no need to recall vehicles - so why do their service managers give different advice? I will never buy or recommend a Vauxhall due to the complete negligence of this company.

Responses to this review

They were on watchdog regards this fault and are now repairing and maybe a chance to get a refund if you have already paid to get it fixed, ring 08450902044. - Adele Tagg from England

I have a Meriva 53 plate. I’m having the same problem - I have two children and I’m scared to drive it as the steering goes stiff. I nearly had accident so I took it to the garage today and they read out two faults c1532 and c1500. I rang Vauxhall up and it’s booked in but I refuse to pay up to 1000 pound. I got a loan to get the car in which I don’t want to use. I also don’t want to have the same problem over again if it isn’t resolved. I will never buy Vauxhall again - hopefully it will be resolved - Cheryl Southern from England

Vauxhall Meriva 1996

I bough a Vauxhall Meriva 2 and a half years ago, upto now the car has been very reliable, and the diesel very economical. I took it on the motorway, 70 miles into my journey the car revved loudly, and lots of smoke came out the back of the car exhaust. I pulled over to the hard shoulder as soon as I could, took the keys out of the ignition and the car still carried on revving, even louder. I thought the car was going to blow. Roughly 10 secs later there was a click from the engine and everything went silient. The garage said that the turbo is at fault and could of damaged the timing chain. The thing is the car is just over 3 years old, and just passed the warranty. I never expected anything like this to happen, but I was told that the type of engine the Meriva is fitted with is prone to problems happening.

Responses to this review

I brought my car (1.4 life 06 reg) in May last year from a Vauxhall dealer. Everything was fine with my car right up until March of this year. I broke my leg in December and hadn’t driven it for months. I had people start it for me and my sister took it out for a drive now and then. On one of the drives the EPS light came on. My MOT was due so my car was taken to a vauxhall garage. To cut a long story short, I have done 5000 miles in the car this year and it had to have a whole new steering column. Luckily, I was still covered by my warranty. However, it run out 3 days ago and now I have a massive water leak and Vauxhall won’t do anything about it. I spent £6000 on this car and feel like you, thoroughly let down. They should still be liable if you are outside of your warranty - Emma Budd from Surrey

Vauxhall Meriva 1.6 8v Energy 2004

Bought this car 2 years ago, was very happy with it until 2 days ago when I was turning ’round the steering went heavy and EPS light came on. Managed to pull over swiched off then restarted, the steering seemed OK. The car was booked for a Service on Monday 26th April so reported EPS Fault at the Main Dealer, It was checked no fault found, it was recalibrated and was told to try it. If it occures again they recomend a new EPS steering at a cost around £600. I hope it keeps on working as I am a pensioner.

Responses to this review

Just had my Meriva checked for power steering problem, although I haven’t had it from new it is a 55 reg with only 24,000 miles on the clock have been told I need new steering colum at a cost of around £600. As I can’t walk far I will be stuck without it, I am also a pensioner - Margaret Lewis from England

They were on watchdog regards this fault and are now repairing and maybe a chance to get a refund if you have already paid to get it fixed, ring 08450902044. - Adele Tagg from England

Vauxhall Meriva 2003

Bought at 16k now 52k on clock, the car always has a problem ,a bit of a lightweight in every sense. The original gear linkage was made from plastic and has a small oil sump, yeah a great idea for doubling your service bills. A lot of sub standard components under the bonnet. Can’t get access to even a relay without breaking your fingers. Yes I would recommend this to somebody, if you hated them. I had a Cavalier before and it was quite good but I will never buy a vauxhall again now.

Vauxhall Meriva Design 2003

I`ve had this car since 2003 and it has been mostly a good buy, the only thing though is the car has ever since needing it`s first MOT had a noisy steering column. The first time I was told it was a small pin that needed replacing which cost next to nothing. For the next 3 MOT`s the car has passed but have been told each time that the steering will need looking at (I`ve put off having it done though as I know how expensive it will be) and driven the car all over the place; the noise and shaking is quite loud when you go over a pot hole anyway the car recently has now failed it`s latest MOT and I had it so called repaired at a cost of £500. Now thanks to the many potholes around here the steering is back to knocking and shaking just 3 weeks later! It seems that this is a very common problem with this car.

Responses to this review

I had a similar experience as you I took it to a private Vauxhall specialist for service this time last year who advised the steering needed changing, £600. This February I had my local Mechanic check it over for MOT he found that one of the anti roll bar joint was worn replaced for £25.00, result -John Davis from Somerset

Hi, I have a 53-plate 1.6. Several months ago I found a knocking coming right up through the steering. It was only happening when going in a straight line - any turning pressure right or left would make it disappear, leading me to think that something was loose. Checked all suspension and steering components, (bushes, track rods, link bars etc) with no joy. All indications (and recommendation from the dealer) were that it needed a new steering column - approx £900. It wasn’t getting worse, and there were no directional issues, so I thought I’d hang on and keep researching. I’m glad I did - it turned out that the clamp bolt where the column meets the steering under the dash was loose. I tightend it and the problem disappeared. Worth checking if you have a similar problem! - Dave from Sussex

I have a 54 reg Meriva which has a constant rattle coming from the steering column/to the right of the dashboard. When it was under network Q they said they would dismantle the steering column and lubricate it. This seemed to solve it, but 9 months on it started again (I only do 3000 miles max a year!) I rang Vauxhall garage but they said they doubted it would now been covered as the Network Q had expired and I only had an Eden Vauxhall A plan warranty. They said if the fault was found to be just ’steering wheel lubrication’ it would cost £50 +vat diagnostic fee and then probably £100’s + vat to actually do the lubricating! What a farce. I took it to an independent garage who said it was ’one of those noises you’ll just have to put up with’ !! & that they checked all the joints on the RH side and all were secure. Having read the response which said about the clamp bolt needing tightening, I may quiz a few independent mechanics to see if this is something they could help with. My friend also has a Meriva with this annoying rattle, but her solution is to turn her stereo up! Lou Harrison from Berkshire

Vauxhall Meriva 1.6 design 2009

Overall very good but has a few annoying niggles: 1) The control switch for the front sunroof has no neutral position between the slide and tilt mode. This means that closing the sunroof can be annoying. Enough so to discourage us from using the sunroof. 2) This is a £15,000 car, it seems rather cheap of Vauxhall that a spare wheel, jack, tool kit and the first aid kit are optional extras, especially when the boot has a moulded space for each of these items. 3)The 1.6 engine does not seem to pull well uphill. I frequently have to change down as low as 2nd gear on moderate hills.

Responses to this review

Hi Andrew, I have a 1.4 Design 2008. I find that if you press and hold the button when moving to closed it stops at closed. If you keep moving it in small amounts it does tend to over-run the closed position and start sliding. Same goes when you go from slide to closed, just keep your finger on the button until it stops moving - Phil Davies from Oxfordshire

Vauxhall Meriva diesel 2004

Purchased 2nd hand from a local dealer (P A Autos) 3 days later the indicators packed in (common fault). Took it back and it was fixed in 20 mins. Spot on dealer, give him a good cheer, not many about like them nowadays. Had it for a year+ now & except for normal maintainance things (bulbs, tyres, wipers, my servicing done properly by my son, etc.) It normally does local journeys, but has been to Paris a couple of times, both my sons have used it (They try to hammer it) It’s done 78000 so I think I may need to change the cam belt (water pump is a good thing to do at same time, £20 extra but worth the effort) I get 46 mpg It’s a workhorse, 2 grandkids & daughter in law (here there & everywhere) hence the short journeys. Asda run regular, folds down for junk to the tip, tows my son’s car when it breaks down and as long as it’s checked out regularly (Normal checks) then it keeps going. All in all I would buy another one. By the way, as I have had a hip replacement it is brill as I don’t have to collapse into a low seat.

Responses to this review

I would advise changing the timing belt ASAP as you are living on borrowed time ! Cheers - Mike Cooper from Northamptonshire

What is the recommended timing belt change mileage? I always thought it was 80k - Simon from Yorkshire

Vauxhall Meriva 2008

I agree with Alan in Yorkshire, I have had no problems with the car in general, but with my car at a similar mileage, i now need a new steering column due to power steering faliure, new tyres and track rod ends.

Responses to this review

The indicator light failed to come on whilst turning left, tried changing the bulb, no joy with that, turned out it was the control unit, cost £150 to sort it out at the garage, now the indicator fails to knock itself off after a left turn, anyone any ideas as to what it could be?! - Pete Harrison from Lancashire

I’m having a nightmare with this car, the power steering keeps on cutting out when trying to park or turning a corner. The car is only 4 years old and has only done 3000mls - Estelle Crosby from England

I purchased a Vauxall Mervia 2006 model life. I’m pleased with this car, however, power steering is playing up at only 5000 miles on the clock, very disappointed. It’s been to a Vauxall dealer, which has failed to solve the problem. It’s still under dealers warranty ’til June this year, is this a common fault with Vauxalls? - Graham Watkin from Warwickshire

Vauxhall Meriva 1.4 2009

I have recently bought a new Meriva 1.4 in October 2009. I have had the car back at 3 different dealers with a list of problems and they are not interested: 1. steering wheel not straight and moves to the left if you let go of the wheel. 2. dashboard making a rattle and squeaking noise constantly whiles driving. 3.drivers window won’t go back up, need to pull it up. 4.banging noise from front suspension when going over speed bumps. 5.left indicator won’t cancel after use. As you can tell from my list it is not good reading for the Vauxhall Meriva and Vauxhall, I’m not a happy customer. It’s the first time owning a Vauxhall and I won’t be buying another again. I hope everyone else has better luck than me. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR.

Vauxhall Meriva 1.3 cdti breeze 2008

Great car for practicality, ideal for family as the space and flexi seats prove worth their weigh in gold but seats are hard and meriva is horrendous in snow. I have been grounded since Sunday as car will not move in snow, nearly had accident on way home on Sunday as car lost control and I am a very experienced drive, over 20 years driving experience in all conditions, this is my first MERIVA AND IT WILL BE MY LAST DUE TO THE SAFETY ASPECT & PERFORMANCE IN ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS. I have always had VW and Peugeots and have never had any problems with their handling even in more sever weather conditions, anyone else has the same experience?

Vauxhall Meriva 2003

We have the oldest Meriva here, a 1.6 Enjoy, yes the rear folding seats are hard on a long journey and we have had a lot of irritating problems with interior and rear lights - mainly bulbs. Now reached 45K and the eps light has come on at full lock twice, garage recommend replacing steering column, at an eyewatering Å�700 plus so we are just living with the problem! Lost confidence in the car somewhat, people who have had the power steering ’fixed’ seem to complain of it still being a problem at a later stage.See Vauxhall Owners Network site and search under ’Meriva eps’ - your experiences can help others and there is quite a lot of info there.

Vauxhall Meriva 1.7cdti Design 2004

At first I was happy with the Meriva, it was spacious,comfortable to drive and still is. The problem is the car is only 5yrs old and has only done 42k miles and now it needs a new fuel pump. This comes after it has had a new steering column, recent new discs and brakes, new track rod ends and several new tyres on the front. Surely a fuel pump should last more than 42k? Needless to say I shall be getting rid of this nightmare and getting a Peugeot.

Responses to this review

Hi, I have the same vehicle as you and some of the problems like tyres 7000mls then again at 10000mls new psr, only I had to get mine refurb as they didn’t make my type anymore, then rear discs as they stick on but I have done 135000mls. Watch out for the ERG valve (1st sign loss of power)light on dash LHS, mine has just cloged up and the cost to replace was £360-400, shop around as it’s a full day’s job. As soon as I can get rid I will not buy another one. Told by my garage to buy A SKODA. Sad to say I will - Bob MacKenzie from Yorkshire

We too had to replace the petrol pump last year at under 48,000 miles. Then the steering rack went. The garage told us this was a common fault as the racks were designed for a lighter car. The left stalk indicator rarely cancels itself, the steering wheel doesn’t centre and the ERG valve needed replacing this week. Last week the drivers side suspension spring snapped in half and damaged the wiring. The ABS light comes on every few weeks. It is a pig of a car and still only 50,000 miles on the clock. Total rubbiish - Craig Hanson from England

Vauxhall Meriva Life 1994

With a baby on the way, the Meriva seems like the ideal buy, with plenty of boot space and cabin room for all the essentials and more. I was more than impressed at the beginning. However after a few months driving, the novelty wore off. The front pillars are a real hazard and you have to stop and lean forward at every junction. As you soon learn, by not doing that you are taking your life in your hands. Fuel consumption poor with 30 mpg, the air conditioning is poor, indictors do not automatically turn off which is maddening. Numerous brake lights bulbs replaced. Problems with the ABS braking. Would never buy another Meriva or indeed a Vauxhall. Would-be parents, think very carefully before buying this car.

Responses to this review

My Vauxhall Meriva is a 55 reg and I have done 21000 miles. The cam belt went, I needed a new camshaft, cylinder head etc. The bill was £2014. I will never buy another Vauxhall. Customer care say it’s out of warranty. You’re right about the column on the side of the windscreen, it’s really dangerous and I have had a few near misses - Kath Paterson from Lancashire

Vauxhall Meriva 1994

This was the first brand new car I ever bought. Apart from the ’blind’ spot on right front corner of window I really loved it. The tyres lasted a long time and I love the interior space. It’s great for carrying large items and has great storage. This year however, my EPS light went on and remained on. I could hardly drive the car and felt really unsafe. A part from the Vauxhall dealer cost £600. Now my EPS light is coming on occasionally. My Vauxhall dealer believes it might need a new pump. After researching on the Internet I discovered that the EPS is a common problem with the Meriva. I am now very disappointed in Vauxhall’s attitude towards the problem and hope they will rectify it. All the reports of the EPS problem indicate that the Meriva can be dangerous if this EPS fault continues.

Responses to this review

Hi! My 2004 Meriva had the same fault as yours in June 2006 and i had it replaced at my own cost as Vauxhall did not want to know and now the same as happened again. I like my car as i have a knee problem and find it easy to get in and out of. But at a cost of £600+ I can’t afford to have it done - John Williamson from Cheshire

Hi. I have just started having the same problem with the EPS locking & I am looking into it; these reviews have been helpful. I agree about the front column but love the car and as I have bad knees also think it is easy for getting in & out of - Joan Williams from Cheshire

I have had my Vauxhall Meriva enjoy a year now and the eps comes on and the steering goes tight. Had it seen to but no one seems to know what is wrong. Would not buy another one. Stick to the old cars - Bet Patterson from Durham

Vauxhall Meriva 2008

I hired a Meriva to go to Edinburgh and I can’t believe all the positive comments I see in reviews. I’ve just driven it up the A9 in a gale and if you put it in fifth gear it slowed down. It was tinny, cheap, had hard uncomfortable seats, leaned alarmingly going over the Forth Road Bridge, had negative acceleration and was basically frightening. I normally drive a six year old Golf and frankly the old Golf puts it to shame. I often drive an Astra which is also fine. I just couldn’t believe the fragility of this car. I really didn’t feel safe!

Vauxhall Meriva 2006

I bought the Meriva 1.3cdti in Feb 2009. I had a Skoda Fabia before and was used to thick front pillars. This vehicle is a dream to drive, loads of room and very economical as well - 46 mpg combined.

Vauxhall Meriva DESIGN 2007

I bought my Meriva to replace a Zafira 1.6 which had a fault from new that Vauxhall couldn’t fix (the revs always dropped off when pulling away). Well, this Meriva has the same problem and I totally hate this car. It’s power is crap for a 1.6 design, 5th gear is almost useless. The seats are rock hard, seating position crap, the interior condenses up far to easy, especially the rear windows. The blind spot is a total disaster. The stereo jumps from station to station for no reason. Long after it’s stopped raining you got to use the wipers because of the water running from the roof. I’m constantly having to keep the steering wheel in the middle, if I let go the car veers to the left (the garage swears the tracking in ok). I can honestly say this car is nowhere near as good as the Zafira... I will never buy another Meriva. I have totally lost confidence in Vauxhall and am eager to sell this Meriva and again accept my huge loss in money. I’d advise a good long test drive... then say NO THANKS!

Vauxhall Meriva 1.7 cdti 2004

Well made, comfortable, reasonably quiet and does just under 60 miles to the gallon. I’ve had it since new (5 years) and absolutely nothing has gone wrong. The only expense has been servicing (budget about £100 per year). Would I recommend it? Certainly - but take a test drive first to check the rather notorious blind spot to the right hand front.

Vauxhall Meriva Enjoy 1.8 2006

The space use is brilliant, love the cup holders and trays in the rear for my Mum and my son alike. The boot, with its extra under floor storage is really good. The acceleration/pick-up is swift which makes it good for motorway and town driving. The leather interior is easy to keep clean and warm to sit on. It’s a little costly on fuel but you can’t have everything.

Vauxhall Meriva 2004

We got the Meriva one month after our daughter was born. We owned a KA then; we couldn’t get the pushchair in the back and it gave you back ache to put her in the car seat! This car is perfect for a new family or if your adding to your family. In fact, my parents like the Meriva that much they now own one the exact same colour. Overall: brilliant for space, smooth drive and easier for families.

Vauxhall Meriva CDTI 2006

I have used the car for 2 trips, from the UK to Lisbon and back. On the superb roads - Santander onwards, I used up to 95 mph where circumstances permit. 100 mph needs 3650 rpm (approx), hence at 90 mph it is not overstretched. Diesel consumption for those journeys averages 47 mpg, which to me is fantastic. With driver only, but with a fully laden / back seats flat Meriva. The only gripe being the thick pillars either side of the windscreen and they do obstruct peripheral vision. I have also used my Caterham CSR 260 for that journey, but the Meriva is a far better and relaxed proposition for such long journeys.

Vauxhall Meriva 1.4 Life a/c 2007

I’ve been driving this car for about 9 months now and I’m very pleased overall with it. The space is fantastic and my little girl loves being higher up and able to see out from her (Isofix) car seat. It can lack a little punch sometimes from setting off but I hardly feel the need to race off from the lights so suits me fine. The only downside are the side pillars on the windscreen, which took a little getting used to as they do get in the way of visibility sometimes, especially on roundabouts. All in all I think it’s a wonderful family car and very flexible. Something I would definately buy again.

Vauxhall Meriva 1.4 2004

I have had several cars over the years varying from Ford Fiesta to Ford Escort and now drive a Rover 45. Due to a crippling illness I have trouble with my back and needed a car that I could get in and out of easily. Also have a 12 year old that I taxi around with his friends. Test drove many cars, including Renault Scenic, Renault Modus etc... The Meriva is far the best car out there and it is large enough to house 3 rowdy teens and hubby along with a large boot for accessories. I am only 5ft and hubby is 6ft so we needed a car small enough for me yet large enough for him. The Meriva ticks all the boxes. No problems with acceleration when at full capacity and I live on the side of the mountain!

Vauxhall Meriva Life easytronic 2007

Like the car, spacious and comfortable. Quirky gearbox with heavy fuel consumption.

Responses to this review

I am thinking of buying a Mervia 2007 1.6 Life easytronic (AC) with semi. auto box. Are the gear boxes ok and when people say heavy fuel consumption what do they mean by heavy? - Ken Horn from Hertfordshire

I would not buy a Meriva again but a Piccasso - Ann Becker from Nottinghamshire

We have a Meriva 1.6 easytronic. We get an easy 40 on a run down to Cornwall at 70mph. That’s with three people, a roof box & all the luggage & two mountain bikes on the back. That’s with me driving with size 12 feet too & I’m no light foot. Don’t forget that the Meriva is a heavy car for its size - Carl Davis from Leicestershire

Vauxhall Meriva 1.7cdti 2006

My Meriva is my Tardis on wheels! I needed a vehicle which for 99% of the year transports just me and my business goods around the country but for 1% accommodates trips out with family and friends spreading into the back seat. A Vectra served me well but the overall length and boot projection made parking and manoeuvring in strange locations a bind. I cannot believe the Meriva is based on a Corsa chassis. The internal space is huge -legroom front and back is phenomenal and is not provided at the expense of the standard boot space (as with some mpvs). Flexspace drops the rear seats in a flash to a massive loading area, with no lip at the tailgate to negotiate and several handy anchorage points to tie everything down (not family and friends!). The car handles like a mini hatchback and the common rail engine provides excellent poke at the lower end of the gearbox. It will cruise for ever and on long, fully loaded journeys returns 45mpg with ease -which is pretty good for the planet and the purse. The solar reflect glass -available on the top models -is an added luxury in hot weather and an essential security feature when loaded up. I challenge any manufacturer to offer me a better vehicle for my needs (however a private helicopter may do nicely!) PS to Peter Mahoney (post 9.11.2007)..... 23 years ago we had a baby + a toddler + all associated necessities (pushchair/ travel cot/high chair/nappies/food/clothes) all neatly stashed in a two door Fiesta for regular 5 hour journeys. Children of today have it too easy!!

Responses to this review

If you have a sunroof, it could be the seal or the door seal - Robert Peake from Yorkshire

Vauxhall Meriva 1.6 8 valve enjoy 2004

I love the car but the fuel consumption is heavy with only 30 - 35 mpg. Apart from that the car is great.

Vauxhall Meriva 2006

I have had my Meriva six months its good to drive and good on fuel about 45 to 50 mpg. My wife has certain difficulty getting in and out of most cars but not whith the Meriva , we gave a lot of thought to which would be the best car for us and tried a few on test but only meriva ticked all the boxes . Ours is a 1.6 petrol and it runs so smooth it is very nice car in all respects ,if there is one thing I would like that it does not have is arm rests, maybe some one out there knows if i can get them from somewhere.

Vauxhall Meriva 1.6 2007

My wife and I had a baby recently and the Vauxhall Corsa we owned just wasn’t big enough to cope with the army of supplies that you need when transporting a little one around. It was also difficult before to get him into the baby seat in the back. I thought that something in between a car and an MPV would be perfect and the Vauxall Meriva is exactly that. The interior space is magnificent and the FlexSpace system that allows the 3 back seats to be moved independently is a stroke of genius. Luckily, and importantly, it also performs well. The 1.4 engine gives me exactly the amount of acceleration and cruising speed that I need. Running costs / fuel economy are pretty good too. The only negative, and it is a very small one, is that the visibility from the drivers seat is not as good as I would have liked. However, this car is leased and I am so happy with it that I will be leasing exactly the same model again.

Vauxhall Meriva 1.6

OK car, have 3 kids, aged 7, 5 and 1, and find it a bit a squeeze when all in, no real pick up from the off but is quite good on the old mpg. Very reliable, but again, not as big on the inside as looks from the outside.

Vauxhall Meriva

I have a young family and needed a car that is the size in between a normal car and a MPV. The Meriva is just about perfect as it is the same size as a Vauxhall Corsa in width and length but is built higher to afford the room that is traditional with Vauxhall's Zafira. My wife also finds that she has increased visability and a greater sense of safety. She was also concerned about parking a larger vehicle but has found that this is not a problem with the Meriva. This is an excellent choice for a smaller family and the Meriva also looks very pleasing on the eye.