Opel urge car owners to contact garage following serious car fire
A dramatic fire which broke out in the car of a man who was about to board the ferry from Passage West to Cobh this morning has prompted calls for the owners of Opel Zafira cars to contact their local garage.
The fire is the latest in a series of such fires which have affected the same model in the UK, where the cars are called Vauxhall Zafiras.
It was reported today that the fire started in the dashboard and that the man managed to escape unhurt despite the car being destroyed.
No official recall has yet been issued but Opel in Ireland has advised owners of Zafira cars bought between 2005 and 2014 to contact their local garage if they have any concerns.
Opel have released a statement outline what people should be looking for in their own Opel models.
“Opel is currently carrying out an investigation following reports of fire in the area of the heating and ventilation system in a number of Opel Zafiras (Zafira B model launched in 2005, not current Zafira Tourer).
“While the number of incidents is very low in proportion to the number of vehicles on the road, we take this issue very seriously and will take further action.
"Opel will be working with the local authorities to identify the probable cause of the thermal incident reported in an Opel Zafira in Passage West, Co. Cork today, as part of this investigation.
“The safety of our customers is the number one priority. Our investigations to date have found that a number of incidents have occurred due to previous repairs being performed improperly or using certain non-genuine parts.
“If you are concerned about operating your vehicle or if you notice any unusual characteristics with the heating and ventilation system (for example a squeaking noise from the dashboard) you should contact your Opel dealer and arrange for your vehicle to be inspected. This will be done at no cost.
Opel will consider further actions as appropriate.
“For further information customers should call Opel Customer Assistance: on 01 5339818”
