Vectra C - second hand car problems and issues

Consumer information about issues and problems with the used vehicle Opel and Vauxhall Vectra C

black Vectra C hatch

Vectra C is quite reliable and if serviced regularly it is going to serve you for a very long time. I have been proud owner of couple of Opel and other GM vehicles so far and I would say some of the problems I had were quite common for the brand. I would basically categorize them in the following categories:


  • Engine - Ecotec engines are not popular with their durability and that is why they are not preferred for LPG installation. Since valves are not their strong point many consumers are reporting issue after adding LPG to their Ecotec engine. Opel's Gasoline are often rough on high RPM and tend to sound like a modern diesel. Burning oil is another popular problem among gasoline Ecotec engines. Diesels in Vectra C are powerful and economical but also quite rough - issues with EGR, dual mass flywheel or nozzles are often reported. Thankfully these are cheaper to fix compared to other cars in the segment (Passat or Audi A4 for example). The 2.2 Direct (155 ps) engine is also not the strongest in this model. As being the first direct injection engine in Opel it is easily to guess that it is far from perfect. It's dynamic figures are much better than regular gasoline Ecotec though.

  • Interior wear - the interior of the Vecra C is spacious and nice for the most part. Unfortunately it wears quite badly on some spots - door handles and switches and stitching on leather seats. Some switches also give up after some time of active use.

  • Clunky gearbox - having tested the gearbox in the 1.6 and 1.8 petrol engines with variable valve timing I can confirm that the gearboxes coupled with them are quite clunky, especially on 1.6 116 ps in Astra H.


Overall the Vectra C is a reliable car with strong suspension and a bit firm ride. I prefer the hatchback modification the most because of its sporty look and enormous trunk.

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