Vauxhall Senator Common Problems and Solutions
Rear wheel arch rust
Problem:
This is an extremely popular problem on these cars with the rear wheel arches rusting.
Solution:
The first thing to do is to try rubbing the affected area down with a hard wire brush, wire wool or something similar. Once you have rubbed it down you may need to apply some filler and then have it painted. Depending on how bad the rust is, you may actually be cheaper getting a replacement panel.
Difficulty level
Power problems
Problem:
If your car is losing power when you have the throttle full down, it is most likely down to a problem in the fuel system somewhere.
Solution:
The first place to check would be the fuel filter, to see if this needs replacing. If this doesn't fix the problem, it could be the fuel lines are blocked or a problem with the fuel pump. Have someone look at it for you to identify the problem, to get the fuel pumping around your car and resolve the problem.
Difficulty level
Valve timing problems
Problem:
If you are noticing that the valve timing is out and the belt keeps jumping you have an issue somewhere within the timing system. The cam belt should be replaced every 40,000 miles or so, if this has been replaced wrongly then this could cause the timing to be out.
Solution:
Also it could be the tensioners, but check that the valves haven't been damaged in the process. Get a professional to have a look and once the problem is identified, change the relevant parts.
Difficulty level
Tensioner
Electrical problems
Problem:
The Vauxhall Senator is renowned for having electrical problems. This is the most common fault associated with this vehicle.
Solution:
If you are having problems with the electrics on your car then why not have someone look at it? This will correctly identify which part is at fault or it maybe obvious depending on the area of the fault. You may have to replace the faulty part, or you may be able to fix it without replacing the part itself.
Difficulty level