We recently purchased a 2004/54 Vauxhall Vectra 2.2 diesel estate car from a dealer at a cost of £4,200. A nice car and suitable for what we wanted, reliable for all the family to drive.

An intermittent fault has occurred on the car, it cuts out now and then, at the mildest form it is just a loss of power but the engine management light comes on to record the fault. At the extreme the car cuts out and we lose PAS steering and brakes. Once it left me stranded in the middle of a road. The Vectra has been back to the dealer 3 times now.

The last time he just gave me a part number from eBay and said, "you need this to fix it." I have had a confrontation with this guy and he said, "how much longer do you want me to guarantee the car for?” The car was purchased in April 2011 and the original fault reported 3 weeks after purchase. Each time I complain it takes 2 weeks before he takes it in for a look. We were also put on hold for 2 weeks whilst this guy went on holiday. I took the Vectra to a main dealer for a diagnostic check - they identified the manifold intake as the fault this was repaired at a cost of £452.40 inc VAT. I am on my way to confront him for some recompense in this matter I know that according to the Sale of Goods Act, the item must be suitable for use. I would be obliged for your input on this matter