Why you need a chassis number?

Think of a car’s chassis as being just like your skeleton, it is the frame which a car is built up from... but is also the essence of its identity. Allow me to explain: every car when it is made is assigned a unique serial number which is either known as a chassis number or a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This number allows mechanics to identify the vehicle which is listed on a database so that they can a.) Check the car’s history and b.)Use the chassis number as a means to source the correct spares for your vehicle when parts inevitably wear out.

The used car market is full of secrets, without the existence of a chassis number, you could easily become the victim of a “cut and shut”, when you buy a car that is literally two cars welded together. This is extremely dangerous and could endanger your safety and that of other people. On the database, information about serious accidents the car has been involved in is kept for future reference. When you buy a used car, this is certainly something about the car’s history that you would want to know about. The chassis number enables you to track a car’s history.

When buying Vauxhall parts, you need to know your chassis number; it is usually on a plate near the engine. For example, if you are looking for Vauxhall Corsa parts, the chassis number is probably under the bonnet close to the car’s battery.

Since 1981, chassis numbers have consisted of strictly 17 characters which don’t include the letters i, o or q to avoid confusion with number 0 and 1 although bear in mind that there are four separate standards used to calculate VIN numbers across the world.

Vauxhall Corsa faults

Vauxhall Corsa’s are among the most popular cars in the Vauxhall range but have not been without their problems. The car series has had a number of different releases each with different bodies and engines. So we need to take a look at the different models within the Corsa series to see what problems have occurred at the various stages and the problems likely to emerge in the future.

The first models released between 1993-2000 are now starting to see quite a few issues relating to the bodywork, engine and other general problems. The older Corsa’s tend to have issues with defective door hinges and be susceptible to rust due to poor paintwork on the body.

The engines can suffer from a few starting problems. The 1.4 16v model had some problems with cutting out. If the Corsa's have a particularly high mileage you can see some clutch wear or slip.

The Vauxhall Corse 93-03 seems to use front tyres more and wear them down and also the brakes the suspension is easily tired on these older models. The Corse can experience minor electrical problems and the interior trim looks tatty after a while.

The Vauxhall Corse 00-03 model has a new range of issues this model is particularly popular with people who like to add body kits. These don’t really add value and can be covering crash damage so may be worth investigating.

The oil level on this model can drop easily so it’s worth checking and asking for proof of the last oil change. A common accompaniment to the body kit is the sports exhaust and stereo, if this isn’t a feature you want don’t pay for a car with these extras.

The Vauxhall Corsa from 2003-2006 is mechanically fine but are popular with modders so watch out for body kits and noisy exhausts. The most modern Corsa’s are relatively free from problems with the body and engine. There have been several recalls regarding the steering control.

So if you have any of these issues and are in need of Vauxhall Corsa parts, take a look at Megavaux.

Vauxhall Omega Common Issues

The Vauxhall omega is getting to be a bit of an old car now, its time wan between 1994 and 2003 so you can now only buy this model second hand. The Vaukhall omega had two types of cars, the saloon and the estate car. As the cars are now aging there are certain issues that many drivers are finding. We are highlighting the main issues so you know what Vauxhall Omega parts you may need.

The body of the Vauxhall Omega seems to suffer from poor paintwork, on some of the older cars particularly older white models there are problems with rust blisters. The door sills tend to scuff door sills and the suspension is easily worn

The engine tends to suffer from some cold start and ignition problems, it can have faulty fuel delivery system. Some of the cars can have jerky shifts in the gears. The cam rattles and the drive belt can get worn.

The Vauxhall omega seems to suffer from overuse as frequently they have damage to interior and the load space can get damaged, it can also suffer from brake wear and a loose trim.
So if you have a Vauxhall omega saloon or estate, keep an eye open for these common problems and if you need any Vauxhall Omega spares