Vauxhall has said its Zafira B models could be catching fire due to “improper repair” of the vehicle’s heating and ventilation system.

There are 200,000 Zafira B models which could be affected.

Rory Harvey, Vauxhall chairman and managing director, recorded a video to address customer concerns.

He said: “Our investigations have found evidence of improper repair of the blower motor resistor and its thermal fuse, which is designed to protect the blower motor system.

“In addition, it should be noted that if you are the first owner of your Zafira B and your heating and ventilation system is functioning well and your car has never been subject to any repair in this area, there should be no risk of a fire starting.

“At this stage, further analysis is ongoing towards verifying the route cause of the fires.”

Harvey said the company will be transparent with its findings.

Vauxhall will write to all affected Zafira owners in a staged process from November 12 asking them to go to dealers for a heating and ventilation inspection. The inspection and any replacement parts will be free of charge.

Harvey said: “We fully understand the seriousness of this situation and your personal concerns about safety. Please be assured that we will not rest until we are fully confident we have resolved this issue.

“We are taking every step to reassure confidence in your Zafira B and Vauxhall.”

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 vauxhall.customerassistance@vauxhall.co.uk for further information or call the Customer Assistance Centre on 0800 026 0034.