The issue was highlighted in October when over 130 fires were reported via a Facebook group but Vauxhall said its investigations had been hampered by the excessive damage to the vehicles affected. It added that it had found that a number of incidents have occurred due to previous heating and ventilation repairs being performed improperly or using certain non-genuine parts.

Vauxhall has recorded a video of chairman and managing director Rory Harvey explaining the issue and the recall, which will include an inspection of the vehicle’s heating and ventilation system and the replacement of suspect parts, returning the vehicle to a safe operating condition.

Customers can find further information on Zafira fires and clear advice on how to identify the cars affected at: www.vauxhall.co.uk/zafiracustomeradvice.html.

Customers can also email [email protected] for further information or call the Customer Assistance Centre on 0800 026 0034.