Vauxhall Corsa ‘fire risk’ claim

A TORY MP has called for Vauxhall to either recall models of its Corsa car or explain why there is nothing to fear after concerns were raised over a potential fire risk.

An investigation by The Sun claims heater wiring in Corsa Ds and Es built since 2006 is susceptible to heat damage.

Iain Stewart, a member of the transport select committee, said: “Vauxhall should either immediately arrange for a recall and fix of affected cars or be upfront and demonstrate beyond doubt why there are no grounds for concern.”

Browse NEW or USED cars for sale on driving.co.uk

The Sun commissioned a report which it claims found that the heater wiring harnesses of the cars is similar to that of Hummer H3 vehicles, made by Vauxhall’s parent company General Motors. Last year GM recalled 164,993 Hummer H3s following 42 fires dating back to 2009.

Vauxhall was forced to recall 220,000 Zafira B cars last year following a series of fires. An investigation in November this year by the BBC’s Watchdog programme found there had been fire issues in Corsa Ds.

The car manufacturer has denied any knowledge of Corsa fires caused by the heating system.

The manufacturer said The Sun’s allegation that the Corsa problem was similar to that which forced the recall of Hummer H3’s made by its parent company General Motors did not apply as the heating systems were of a “different configuration”.

A spokesman said: “Vauxhall has no confirmed reports of vehicle fires originating in the vehicle heating and ventilation system of the Vauxhall Corsa D/E.”

Jonathan Paige

This article first appeared in The Times

Also read:

Exclusive: My Vauxhall Zafira was recalled. . . but still caught fire