Reliability HGT 2.0?

[Musashi]

I am about to buy a HGT 2.0 -96. What is your experience when it comes to relaibilty? I have hard that it is very common with problems at all 5 cyl engines (HGT + coupé). Cambelt failer, piston through the block, quality....

So do you think it is risky to buy a Bravo HGT?

 

[AlfaNige]

Eh! I have only ever heard of 1 cambelt failure on a HGT as for pistons through the block, nah!
You have been reading too many posts on other forums by people who have never seen one let alone owned one!
Buy one, you wont have a problem with a well maintained one, but do change the cambelt when you get it unless you have full documentation that it has just been done. It WILL be expensive though to do, although I can get you a quotation to have it done if you are in the midlands.
Nige

 

[Anonymous]

Personally i've had my HGT for 7 months now, and 'touch wood' i havent had a problem so far...

The cambelt isnt really a problem, it just seems to go earlier than the book suggests to change it, book says 72k, and the fine people on here recommend around 45-48k...(Note: Its an engine out job on the HGT, and costs £600-£850 to get it done)

On the 6-7 months i've been on here i havent heard of any other major engine problems that are 5-cyl specific...just the usual problems with all cars...

Just be on the look out for the usual things on a car that old such as oil leaks (also notice if the engine is spotless as this is a tell tale sign that its been cleaned to hide any leaks)...

And remember if you do go for it, you will need the red key, as this will cost £800 for a new ECU and keys...

Good luck in whatever car you decide to get...

Daz

 

[Tom]

Re: Re: Reliability HGT 2.0?

Cambelts die on all types of cars. Just make sure it gets changed at about 60k miles of 5 years old.

 

[Musashi]

Thanks.... but...

Is cambelt change always "out of engine" job? I have heard that it may be possible to do it if you angle the engine (after unscrew enigne and gearbox)....just a dream?

Thanks for your fast respons.... I think I will go for the HGT tomorrow!

(sorry for my english...scandinavian)

 

[RR]

Re: Re: Re: Reliability HGT 2.0?

The engine does not have to be dropped out to change the cambelt and tensioners. It can be tilted to change the offending items. Admittedly it is always best to work with the engine out.........

As for a 1996 plate, as Nigel said - check it thoroughly as it is at the age where a lot of components may need replacing, i.e. chocks, brakes/pipes, exhausts, clutch, water pump etc etc, or, you may be really lucky and the car has had a meticulous previous owner, but it's unlikely.

Personally, I'd avoid it and look for a leter plate - unless of course it's mega-cheap?