Opel Astra J: faults, weak points, advice on choosing. How to choose an Opel Astra What to do if the crankcase ventilation system is broken

Opel Astra III is currently one of the most popular cars of its brand. Of course, Astra enjoys its popularity because of its low cost and price-quality ratio. Consequently, due to its low price, the quality also decreases, which makes itself felt in almost all generations as a manifestation of weak points. Therefore, the following are the common sore spots of the Opel Astra, which the owners of these cars most often encountered during operation.

Weaknesses of the Opel Astra (H) 3rd generation

• Automatic transmission;
• "Robot";
• Tie rod ends;
• Thermostat;
• Valve in the intake manifold;
• Valve timing couplings.

Now in more detail ...

In this case, most likely, the automatic transmission cannot be called a weak point, but most likely a radiator, a failure of which contributes to the further failure of the unit as a whole. The essence of the problem lies in the fact that when the radiator was depressurized, coolant leaked into the automatic transmission hydraulic circuit. Therefore, at the moment, when buying, you need to pay attention and ask the buyer if there was a similar problem on this car. It's important to remember that Opel had a revocable company because of this. It is also worth knowing that these problems could only occur on Astra (J) 07-08, and the new generations of Astra solved this problem.

Robotic box.

The owners of the Opel Astra 3 with a robotic gearbox received quite a few unpleasant moments. There are enough cases that these boxes were repaired already at 60 thousand km. Therefore, when choosing a car with a robotic box, you need to take a ride and see how the “robot” behaves. In case of strong jerks and jerks when switching, you need to think about the advisability of buying a car with such a unit. Proceeding from the fact that, in general, the resource of the "robot" is an order of magnitude less than the resource of the "automatic machine" and at the present time, if the car is 2007-08, then the box has definitely been either repaired or replaced as a whole.

Tie rod ends.

Surely one is not even one of the weak points, but a sore Opel astra can be called weak tie rod ends. Rarely do they serve more than 30 thousand km. Of course, these are not expensive parts, but it's worth knowing about it, especially when buying. In this case, it is necessary to ride and if this problem (characteristic knocks) occurs, then this will save money when buying, which will definitely go to repair the malfunction (replace the tips).

Thermostat problems mainly appeared on cars of the 2010-12 generation (J). The peculiarity of this breakdown is that if the thermostat fails, the fan starts to work constantly, which can be signaled by a message on the panel by the device that it is necessary to contact a car service. Consequently, when replacing the thermostat, the gasket changes along with it, through which leaks often appear.

Valve in the intake manifold.

Failures of valves in the intake manifold were quite common on cars of 2011 with an engine capacity of 1.4 (turbocharged). These troubles when the car was under warranty were eliminated official dealers... Therefore, when buying, you need to ask whether the specified problem has been identified and eliminated on this car (unless, of course, it is a car with a 1.4 engine).

Weak paintwork of these cars is a fact. Even on cars that are about 10 years old, you can find traces of corrosion. It so happens that the paint peels off in large enough areas. Therefore, it is imperative to pay attention to the subject of corrosion when buying. Moreover, it will not be difficult. Particular attention should be paid to the inspection of the sills, the joints of the fenders with the bumpers and the trunk lid.

Valve timing couplings.

The essence "Diseases" consists in the fact that when filled with low-quality oil and starting the engine, the gears of these clutches begin to wear out over time. This is evidenced by the characteristic "diesel sound". If you do not pay attention to this all the time, then this can lead to very sad consequences in the flesh before overhaul of the engine. When buying, it is imperative to start the car and pay attention to the performance and the absence of such sounds.

The main disadvantages of the Opel Astra 2004-2014 release

Output.
Of course, we can say that the Opel Astra of all generations has significant advantages. In this case, when buying, you need to decide which engine and gearbox to buy a car. Most owners and experts agree that the best option is this car is a naturally aspirated (not turbocharged) 1.8 liter engine. and a mechanical box. In any case, the choice is everyone's business.

P.S .: Dear present and future owners, write below in the comments about frequent breakdowns and shortcomings of this car model, identified and noticed during operation.

Was last modified: January 17th, 2020 by Administrator

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12 posts per article “ Weaknesses and disadvantages Opel Astra (h) with mileage”

1. Andrzei

   Delirium is written:
   — nice box Automatic transmission 6
   - normal body paint
   - high quality interior, no crickets
   - the suspension is excellent, I have a flex ride
   - electronics works well and stably (cosmo)
   - insulation like Skoda and WV
   - a little bad review when cornering - 2013 J Sedan, so turn your head
   1.4 turbo, Cosmo, sedan, St. Petersburg, flex ride, navigator, parking sensors, climate, …… ..
   Great car. For 4 years under warranty, 2 parking sensors were replaced. No problem.

2. Deniil.

   before there was a run-in of 100 thousand and now an indicator of reliability. it's funny when people start judging reliability at 20-40.

3. Andrey

   So some buy for 3 and 4 million and a month later they turn to a salon, where quality for this money,
   only horses and comfort and the same cart with a tax of 40,000 and so on, and for this money, cars used to run 400,000 km for 15 years, and new Audi with two turbines, where an engine of 150,000 can pass, everything from driving style depends.

4. Evgeniy

   Astra took a new one nine years ago, with the expectation of three four years, but has already dashed off 200 thousand without jambs. On the road, the joints of course got chipped, but in comparison with other cars, I have not yet found the price-quality ratio

5. Dmitriy

   Astra H Z16XER, Easytronic, 2008 Great car, at this age there are not many equal. For malfunctions for 230t.km in the same hands: replacement of heat exchanger gaskets, thermostat. The original (SKF) front hubs run less than 80t.km, the stabilizer struts are the same. Over time, the rear door wiring harness breaks (dubbed in the cold), is treated with a soldering iron or replacing the wires. Afraid of untimely replacement of internal combustion engine oil. A3 / B3 ash pan -250 moto / hours or 8000 km / and there will be no problems with the engine. Change the oil in the box at least once every 100 t.km, brake fluid in the robot once every 2 years and do not forget about the adaptation of the robot.
   Of the little things: after 8 years the rear wiper motor wedges, - it is treated by disassembly, cleaning and lubrication, the wiper drive gearbox freezes, - it is treated in the same way. The leather on the steering wheel is alive, but on the driver's seat cushion may require repair, depending on the size of the driver. With normal maintenance on the highway, the consumption is less than 7 liters per 100 km. The city depends on traffic jams and driving style of the driver.

6. Karen

   Astra N 2008 wagon Z16XER, Easytronic; brought from the Germans with a mileage of 110,000 (four !! oil changes); drove 250 000sam (I'm not a very good driver) - changed the clutch (for example, it was like new) 2 times the timing belt, the rear wiper wedges; refused condo (there is simply no time to repair); changed the front struts; wheel bearings (front); ignition coils; 2 valves have recently burned out; I change the oil after 15 thousand, changed some gears in motion (probably to the camshaft); crickets appeared (probably were originally) around the lob.stekla.MASHINA for the money that he brought (then it was 550,000-13,000 euros to the house) I think it is an excellent car; keeps the road clearly; consumption brought 6.8 liters, now 7.2 liters (I travel a lot on the highway); only 92 benz.

7. Anton

   Immediately I will point out it will be about Astra N, with an engine of 1.8 and a conventional AT, I also disagree with the sweeping commentary of the weak and strong sotron, since one has a temperature of +40 and the other has already died and remains with a temperature of +33.2, and average in the ward - everyone is healthy +36.6. Here it should be understood that for the Opel assembly, if it is Russian - I agree there are problems with the paintwork, crickets in the cabin, the interior is of lower quality, and the noise insulation is worse, the described problems with the thermostat tips and others occur much earlier. I also had 2007. and 2012. assembled in Russia, and here heaven and earth on a European skated 100 thousand before something began to pour in, before that - only consumables, on Russian assembly- even the pads worn out faster and by the time of 100 thousand there was no place left that did not change.

8. Andrzei

   1.4 turbo, AT6, Cosmo. 125,000 km., Consumable, under warranty 2 parking sensors were replaced in 2017, in 2017 one of 4 radiator temperature sensors, I ride and rejoice! Because I care tenderly like a girl, I do oil changes, I try not to turn it unnecessarily, and the engine itself with a turbine, usually does not turn more than 2500 rpm when you just drive. Of course, I have already changed the front discs, pads 3-4 times, and so everything is normal! Indeed a Star. Comfortable, reliable, beautiful, fast, powerful, great car, OpelAstra J.
   2013 year of release, the warranty ended long ago.
   PS All cars have weak spots... But sometimes you need to find them.))
   16.01.2019
   PS 2 I forgot about the shaft seals, right on top under the valve cover. In 2017, too.

9. Semen

   Opel astra h 1.8 automatic v
   Complete set Cosmo is the most reliable car in its class! And the shumka is stronger and better there than in the current new cars. Now I go to Rio 2018, I took it from scratch. Even it cannot be compared to H.

➖ Large doors / Problem parking
➖ Rigid suspension
➖ Maneuverability (large turning radius)
➖ Visibility

pros

➕ Design
➕ Quality of finishing materials
➕ Comfortable salon
➕ Manageability

The advantages and disadvantages of the Opel Astra J GTC 2012-2013 are revealed based on feedback from real owners. More detailed pros and cons of the Opel Astra GTC 1.4 turbo, 1.6 and 2.0 petrol and diesel with mechanics and automatic transmission can be found in the stories below:

Owner reviews

At the moment, I have wound my 12 thousand km, I will try to describe the sensations ... Living in the outback, I still clearly feel how people drill their eyes and turn their heads. Yes, this is Opel, but the damn good appearance leaves no one indifferent.

When I bought a car, many kept saying, they say, how to live with it with a three-door. However, sitting back is quite normal, and sitting behind a person of average height is quite normal. My wife and I are not taller, the seats are pushed back quite a bit, so in the second row there is a solid space to the front seats. The back also has its own lighting, speakers, space for glasses, bottles or something else, there are hooks for clothes.

In general, what I like about this car is that for all its "youth" it provides a very adult level of comfort and equipment. Rain and light sensors work adequately. The adaptive bi-xenon is beautiful at night, the framing of the headlights with diode eyelashes looks cool.

The engine lives only from two and a half thousand revolutions, before that it was quite a vegetable. In sixth gear at 3000 rpm, the speed is exactly 130 km / h. My consumption is mainly on the highway, and in the summer the average does not exceed 8.4 liters (of course, with condender, and the power loss from the condender is minimal), in winter the consumption is a little more, somewhere up to nine liters. Engine 180 HP frisky in moderation, or rather the car is very heavy 1613 kg. Plus, the wheels are large, so there is no overclocking that will take your breath away.

Review of Opel Astra GTC 1.6 (180 HP) with mechanics 2012

Video review

A month after the purchase, we go with the girl on a trip to Altai on the GTC. For the trip I had to drive about 2,000 km. And then I realized how comfortable this car is for long journeys on good roads. Active lights, cruise control, rain sensor, good music - this helps a lot on a long trip. Then there were many other trips out of town - and each time the car was a real pleasure.

Keeps confidently on the track, there are enough dynamics to confidently overtake. Just switch to 4th or 5th speed and you're off. It is comfortable to drive on highways at 125 km / h. Discomfort is caused only by unexpected bumps on the road - a more or less serious bump can "pierce" the suspension with a characteristic sound.

The appearance at first drove me crazy, blissed out from everyone's attention. He constantly turned around when he got out of the car, beholding his beauty. Now I'm more or less used to it, but Astra still gives aesthetic pleasure.

And now honestly about the cons:

1. Large turning radius. It is compensated by beautiful large wheels.

2. The rear of the car quickly gets dirty due to the absence of mud flaps, and their presence greatly spoils the appearance.

3. Driver's seat. After adjusting for roll-out, the seat is not always fixed to the end, and you need to insert the seat into the groove with additional effort until it clicks. In addition, after a bad road in the city, the lower back begins to weep.

4. Electronic handbrake. There were a couple of cases when I did not put the car on the handbrake, and the car began to slowly roll back. A sharp click does not always work. Therefore, you need to press the button with emphasis.

But I will not attribute large doors to minuses. Yes, you need to calculate the distance to the next car when parking, but what a pleasure it is to open and slam a large and heavy door!

Review of the Opel Astra GTC 1.4 turbo (140 hp) on the mechanics of 2012

The comfort of the front sports seats, you sit like in a "capsule";
+ good insulation (only the muffler hums at high speeds);
+ good information content of the instrument panel, a lot of buttons (feeling like on an airplane);
+ the interior is beautifully highlighted (door openers, panel near the gearshift knob).

- it is inconvenient to sit in the seats, as well as very inconvenient to climb out of them (especially those with a large 5th point);
- disease of the combined seats (after 30 thousand km. Everyone has cracked the lower lateral support of the seat made of leatherette, on which they usually sit down when landing, for someone it is generally torn into the trash);
- because of the front wide struts, visibility is lost.

Let's move on to the body. The body is the hallmark of this model. Due to large standard 18-inch wheels and design features, the car has a small turning angle, which is very inconvenient, especially in a large city. It is also inconvenient with huge doors, which, although they open almost 90 degrees, so at least jump up and down, but because of this it is difficult to find a parking place, because with such an opening of the doors, a lot of space is needed.

Suspension:

On the track with its own weight and wheels it goes like a tank.

- albeit on 18 wheels, but tough, every joint and bump is felt, it shakes well!

Manual transmission:

I think that the GTC's manual transmission is a weak point. I was faced with the fact that this box, with a NATIVE run of 75,000 km, whistled the input shaft bearing. The problem turns out to be massive, many people drive with it anyway, so when accelerating over 40 km / h, a whistle appears in the box (everyone thinks that this whistle is somewhere else). On the Internet, I also dug up information that at high speeds there is a strong heating in the box, and then the oil overheats, and then everyone understands the consequences ...

Engine:

The 1.4 engine is a strangled engine with a small impeller, which, as they say, does not need to be cooled even after a trip, but I still got used to cooling it down for a minute on long trips. He does not like racing, as well as high speeds, it is worth stamping and something is sure to hit somewhere, so there is only one word from the SPORT equipment and the exhaust system.

Review of the Opel Astra GTC 1.4 turbo manual transmission 2012

In the parking lot next to the GTC, all other cars seem featureless and unprepossessing. When you start the engine, turn on the music and start smoothly (although you could have ignited it), you forget about all the problems and worries that tormented and haunted. You turn on the heated steering wheel and you feel the vibration of the low frequencies of the audio system with your whole body. Well, you must !!! I go without gloves, my hands do not freeze. It's just some kind of holiday!

I let others pass, I climb into a row with full confidence that they will let me through, and this happens. I can easily go around any car I deem necessary to go around, and I feel a huge amount of power under the hood.

But at the same time I absolutely do not want to drive. I am pleased to turn on the fifth gear at 80 km / h and, slightly touching the pedal, out of the corner of my eye see the message: 4.5 liters per 100 km. But with this smooth movement, I know that at any moment, staying in the same gear and slightly pressing the pedal, a car with a cheetah growl will accelerate from 80 to 120 km / h in a couple of seconds.

On the GTC, all the small and natural irregularities of the Russian roads are perceived as a slight vibration. But if you fly into a serious pothole at speed, the blow will be strong. And at this moment you realize how stiff the car's suspension is. As a result, you have to work on the steering wheel, bypassing all this disgrace.

We drive up to the office, looking for a parking place. I find my usual space of 4.5 meters and I understand that my car is exactly this length, so I can only park on such a heel with a crane. I find a place for a meter more. Seems like it should be enough.

I begin to back off, and immediately I hear the scream of the chamber. I get out of the car. My God, and there is still about a meter - to crawl and crawl. It would seem that turn off the parking sensors and calmly back up another 50 centimeters, but set high rear glass does not allow you to see the hood rear car... As a result, you have to maneuver, leaning against the car in front, since there are no problems with visibility in the front.

Konstantin, review of the Opel Astra J GTC 2.0d diesel (130 hp) MT 2012

Someone may disagree, but personally I think that today, of all Opels, the GTC is the most beautiful and harmonious.

There were no problems with adaptation, the wife got used to the car very quickly, which is not surprising. The steering wheel is very nice, lightweight, the pedals are also very soft, getting into the car is comfortable, the steering wheel is adjustable both in height and in reach, there is powerful lateral support and a bunch of settings for the seat itself.

The decoration and quality of materials in the cabin are also at a height, the seats are combined, and in the place where they have the fabric, the fabric itself is very dense, I think it will be very difficult to kill it. Everything else is automotive leather, stitched together. In general, everything is done very well.

A very pleasant sound of the engine, such a bass with a roar, and the sound insulation for its class is at a level, and it is interesting that on winter tires the car became generally very quiet.

The car holds the road perfectly, and in general, excellent taxiing is the most vivid impression of this car. The ground clearance for a car of this class is also quite satisfactory, almost 16 cm. winter tires so in general 17 cm.

So, what is impractical and inconvenient in this car ... Firstly, these are huge doors, so when parking you need to think about it first of all, it is better not to drive into a narrow place, because the swing of the door is not less than a meter. Secondly, the left stance - it really bothers me. You can't see a fig in the rear window either, but actually there is nothing to look at, since there are parking sensors.

Review of the Opel Astra GTC 1.4 automatic 2013 onwards

In 2010, GM, inspired by the idea of ​​downsizing, released its next engine. From a 1.4-liter volume, thanks to a low-pressure turbine (about 0.5 bar), 140 hp was removed. This power unit in lineup Opel is known as A14NET and LUJ among Chevrolet models. The 120 hp versions of this engine are designated A14NEL and LUH, respectively.

The 1.4-liter GM turbo engine is widespread not only in Europe, but also in the CIS countries, as well as overseas - in the United States. Thanks to the "through" displacement, cars with the 1.4 Turbo engine are gradually arriving in the countries of the customs union. In this case, we are talking not only about compact Opel models, but also about the Chevrolet Cruze and Buick Encore, purchased in the United States.

Motor problems 1.4Turbo (A14NET / LUJ). Ventilation of crankcase gases

This engine as a whole does not cause serious problems, but it does have some congenital "sores" that have been recognized by the manufacturer. During the warranty period, these problems were eliminated free of charge, but most often they manifested themselves after the expiration of the warranty period.

The crankcase ventilation system is especially troublesome. As with any turbo engine, engineers had to go to certain tricks to implement it. But practice has shown that the quality of the implementation of these tricks is lame. In fact, 100% of A14NET / LUJ engines have encountered crankcase ventilation (CGV) malfunctions.

All three components of the VKG system fail:

• a diaphragm located directly in the plastic valve cover;
• check valve in the plastic intake manifold;
• corrugated hose from the intake manifold to the turbine.

Usually problems happen with the first two nodes of the VKG system.

Signs of problems with the VKG system of the 1.4 Turbo motor (A14NET / LUJ) are:

• increased consumption oil (oil burns out in the cylinders or in the exhaust manifold, seeping through the turbine cartridge or will go out through the oil seals and / or through the valve cover);
• smoky exhaust;
• a hissing sound in the engine compartment (bleed sound);
• floating speed or triple engine;
• decrease in engine power;
• increased fuel consumption;
• computer diagnostics will show the following errors: P0106, P0171, P0299, P0507, P1101, P2096 (they indicate a lean mixture or a difference in the calculated and actual air flow);
• an indirect sign: the inability to unscrew the oil filler cap or after unscrewing it or removing the oil dipstick, the engine speed begins to float.

Due to the failure of one or another component of the system, the pressure in the crankcase and in the cavity of the valve cover will greatly increase under the action of the air pressurized by the turbine. You cannot ignore the problems with the VKG system: incorrect mixture formation and detonation occurs, oil is squeezed out and shaft seals are worn out, the catalyst is clogged, spark plugs fail. Due to the high pressure in the crankcase, oil from the turbine cartridge stops flowing into it and is instead squeezed out into the turbine or compressor section.

What to do if the crankcase ventilation system malfunctions?

First you need to make sure that the malfunctions really concern the VKG system. To do this, do the following:

• open the hood and remove the decorative cover from the motor;
• on the driver's side, on the plastic valve cover, we see a round casting (see photo below);
• the casting contains a rubber diaphragm-regulator of the VKG system;
• if it collapses / breaks, then when the motor is running through the hole, air is sucked in, simultaneously making a whistling sound. This whistle stops when you plug this hole with your finger. In this case, the engine speed can begin to "float", vibration will increase.

This casting contains a rubber diaphragm for the crankcase ventilation system. When the diaphragm is destroyed, air is sucked in through this hole (in some cases, crankcase gases are blown out from here).

Regardless of whether you are convinced of the operability of the diaphragm, you need to check one more element of the VKG system. The engine must be turned off. Then you need to find the place where the corrugated hose connects to the plastic intake manifold. The hose must be disconnected by first removing the bracket that fixes it.

At this point, blow-by gases enter the intake manifold and, through a hose, into the intake tract in front of the turbine. Thus, ventilation of the crankcase is provided. The valves block the backflow of gases from the intake tract (where, due to pressurization, the pressure is almost always high and there is no vacuum, as on an atmospheric engine) back to the crankcase.

After disconnecting the hose, you need to look into the hole in the intake manifold. The mushroom valve "nipple" should be visible there. It is clearly visible in its bright orange or red color. In some cases, you may need a cotton swab, soaked in solvent: It can be used to grope and lightly clean the valve to make sure it is present. If it is not possible to detect the valve either visually or with the help of a stick, then it simply does not exist. The fact is that the valve simply rips off the seat, after which it flies off somewhere along the hose towards the turbine.

The Mushroom valve of the VKG system must be present in the intake manifold.

The next step is to check the patency of the entire hose and the operability of the second valve located at the point where the hose is connected to the intake tract near the turbine. It is necessary to blow into the hose - while the air must pass freely. And then you need to "inhale" from the hose - while the air from it (ie in the opposite direction) should not pass. Often, the hose simply cracks, which causes air leakage. If none of this happens, the entire hose must be replaced.

To solve problems with the VKG system, it is necessary to change the plastic valve cover (there are already proposals for used ear covers with a rebuilt diaphragm), a plastic intake manifold (since the check valve located in it is not supplied separately) and a hose with a second valve.

Turbine problems 1.4Turbo (A14NET / LUJ)

The turbine of a GM 1.4-liter engine doesn't die on its own. Its resource can be greatly reduced due to the described problems with the crankcase ventilation system. Incipient lubrication problems and possible back pressure in the exhaust manifold negatively affect the operating conditions of the shaft support bearings.

The manufacturer admitted one specific malfunction of the turbine of the 1.4 Turbo engine (A14NET / LUJ). The problem is that the return spring of the actuator that controls the internal bypass valve of the turbine weakens over time and does not function well. Because of this, more and more exhaust gases slip past the turbine wheel at medium and high loads, designed to spin the turbine impeller. The response of the motor and its power as a whole decreases, "error" P0299 (low turbine pressure) may be recorded.

The actuator, according to the manufacturer's idea, cannot be replaced separately. However, there are already proposals for non-original actuators. But its installation must be entrusted to specialists, since it requires adjustment and a special approach to mounting the actuator stem to the valve.

Turbocharger of the 1.4 Turbo engine (А14NET / LUJ). The photo shows the internal bypass valve and its actuator.

Destruction of engine pistons 1.4Turbo (A14NET / LUJ)

The saddest and most common problem with a small GM turbo engine is the destruction of its pistons, the baffle between the compression rings.

The problem is known from vehicles used in America and the CIS countries. Most often found on cars produced in 2010-2013. Pistons can be destroyed both with a run of 20,000 km and with a run far beyond 100,000 km.

The manufacturer does not report the exact reasons for the destruction of the pistons, but it is not difficult to determine them:

• destruction of pistons occurs due to detonation, which occurs when using low-quality fuel. This reason also covers "chip-driven" motors, where, due to the increased pressure in the combustion chambers, detonation can occur even when operating on a fairly high-quality fuel;
• malfunction of the crankcase ventilation system, causing incorrect mixture formation (mixture too lean).

The destruction of the pistons of the 1.4 Turbo engine (A14NET / LUJ) occurs due to detonation that occurs when operating on low-quality low-octane fuel or with the wrong composition air-fuel mixtures.

Where to buy the 1.4 Turbo contract engine (A14NET / LUJ)?

The Opel / Chevrolet / GM 1.4 Turbo (A14NET / LUJ) engine can be purchased from the warehouse of Ravto.by, which has its own site in North America. In the USA, Ravto.by independently disassembles cars for parts and sends parts to warehouses in Minsk and Moscow. For every detail and, even more so, for the motor, Ravto.by saves and transmits to the client information about the real mileage passed.

What is very important when buying an engine or automatic transmission, the mileage on power units and transmissions from the United States is an order of magnitude less than on European ones. In addition, engines removed from American cars have a minimum number of hours due to less stressful and free of traffic jams. The Ravto.by site is located in the southern United States and dismantles cars from this warm and not densely populated region.

Evgeny Dudarev
site

Contacts in Minsk
+375 29 239 29 39 MTS
+375 29 119 29 39 Velcom
+375 29 125 12 12 Velcom

Contacts in Moscow
+7 925 299 94 38 (wholesale)
+7 915 269 27 37
+7 965 177 32 23

30.11.2016

Opel astra) Is the fourth generation of the popular model, which many consider not only the most beautiful, but also the most successful car in the golf class. Smooth shapes, large discs, muscular arches and excellent optics with diode cilia - such a machine is simply obliged to attract attention, because marketers worked on it no less than design engineers. And these efforts were not in vain, since the car was one of the leaders in sales in many countries of the world. More than six years have passed since the start of sales, which means that it is already possible to draw certain conclusions regarding the reliability of the car.

A bit of history:

In 1991, the Opel Cadet was replaced by a new generation of golf class models with the sonorous name "Astra" (translated from Latin "Astra » means star). Since then, three generations have changed. The premiere of this model took place in 2009 at the Frankfurt Auto Show, but the car made its debut on the market only in 2010. Since 2011, a sports version of the hatchback has become available to customers, which received the "GTC" index. After a minor facelift in 2012, the Astra J appeared in the sedan body. The Opel Astra J, model year 2010, was developed in Rüsselheim, Germany, and shares the same platform with.

The novelty was created from scratch, the manufacturer relied on an unconventional design for the Opel brand, a spacious interior, increased safety, comfort and controllability, as well as advanced technologies. The new wheelbase, coupled with the increased track distance and the clever rear suspension design, gave the car handling, excitement and roadholding, while maintaining a decent level of comfort. The list of equipment also includes an electrically adjustable mechatronic chassis, adaptive lighting, a system for tracking markings and recognizing road signs. Opel Astra J was assembled in Germany, Poland, Great Britain, as well as in Russia at the plant in Shushary.

Weaknesses and disadvantages of the Opel Astra J with mileage.

Previous models of Opel are very much criticized for the poor protection of the body from corrosion; among motorists, the saying was very popular: "If you put the Opel in a quiet place, you can hear how it rusts." The manufacturer took into account this drawback and completely galvanized the car body, but, unfortunately, this did not give the desired result. This is not to say that the body rots as before, but the appearance of bugs on it after winter is a common thing (it should be noted that the manufacturer gives a 12-year warranty on the body). When examining, special attention should be paid to: sills, wheel arches, tailgate and door edges.

Power units

The line of Opel Astra J engines consists of atmospheric 1.4 (100 hp), 1.6 (115 hp) and turbocharged 1.4 (140 hp), 1.6 (180 hp) gasoline power units. Also available and diesel motors 1.3 (85 HP), 1.7 (110-170 HP), 2.0 (160 HP). As operating experience has shown, power units are very reliable, and rarely cause trouble. In terms of dynamics, turbocharged engines look preferable to outdated aspirated engines, but you need to understand that such engines will be more expensive to maintain and repair. So, for example, every 180-200 thousand km a replacement of the turbine is required, and the pleasure is not cheap (700-900 USD, with work).

Of the common engine problems, it can be noted: a small thermostat resource - 30,000 km (many owners solve this problem by installing a more reliable cruise thermostat) and failure of the coolant level valve in the tank. On the 1.6 engine, a system for changing the valve timing on two shafts is used, this not only increases the power of the unit, but also makes the engine less reliable, the weak point is the phase regulator solenoid valve. Once every 60,000 km, cleaning or replacing the valves is required, a signal of the need for this procedure will be a noise resembling a diesel rumble. If you neglect this procedure, then expensive engine repairs are inevitable. The car is equipped with an electronic throttle valve, the complex structure complies with the Euro-5 eco-standards , but its resource, unfortunately, is not great, 60-80 thousand km. To prolong the life of the throttle valve and injectors, they need to be flushed as soon as you feel a deterioration in traction, also try to refuel the car with high-quality gasoline.

Diesel engines with fuel system " Common rail»(TDCI) are very sensitive to fuel quality. And, if the previous owner was refueled with low-quality diesel fuel, you will have to replace fuel injectors, Injection pump, EGR valve and catalyst (repair cost 2000-3000 USD). When choosing a diesel version of the Opel Astra J imported from Europe, carry out a detailed diagnosis power unit... The fact is that these cars are very economical, and abroad more than one hundred thousand kilometers are wound on them, and in our country they are often sold with a mileage of 50-80 thousand kilometers.

Transmission

The Opel Astra J is equipped with a five- and six-speed manual transmission, as well as an automatic six-speed transmission. Operating experience has shown that mechanical boxes gears have established themselves as the most reliable, but things with automatic transmission are worse. So, in particular, the owners name an extraneous unpleasant sound when the car stops, and jerks are also felt when shifting gears. The reason for this behavior of the transmission, in the service, is explained by a software failure of the transmission control unit. Re-flashing the unit slightly improves performance, but does not completely solve the problem. At each maintenance, check the oil level in the box, as it often leaks due to the use of poor-quality pipes for supplying oil to the cooling radiator by the manufacturer. If you neglect the rules for operating the automatic transmission, the transmission will last no more than 150,000 km (replacement will cost about $ 2,000).

Problem areas running Opel Astra J

This model is equipped with a front independent suspension type MacPherson, at the back, traditionally for all generations of the German brand, a torsion bar semi-dependent beam with springs and shock absorbers on the axle is installed. Design feature suspension of the Opel Astra J is that at sub-zero temperatures, it begins to tap when driving on a rough road. Often, the cause of the knock in the suspension is a detached shock absorber boot. This problem can be solved quite simply - you need to install the boot in place and secure it with sealant or clamps. Another source of knocking on a working suspension can be brake calipers, the problem is eliminated by installing special gaskets between the calipers and brake pads. If the "BRAKE" indicator on the dashboard lights up, most likely a software reinstallation is required.

Traditionally, for most cars, stabilizer struts most often deteriorate, replacement every 30,000 km. Support bearings do not last much longer, their resource is 40-50 thousand km, approximately at the same mileage, replacement of stabilizer bushings will be required. The service life of original shock absorbers does not exceed 100,000 km, non-original ones can last less than 50,000 km. Ball joints, wheel bearings and shock absorber springs are well adapted to our roads, and with careful operation they will last 100-120 thousand km. Silent blocks of levers, on average, serve 120-150 thousand km. Steering quite reliable, among the shortcomings can be distinguished: wear of the rack bushing (knocking when driving over bumps, play in the steering wheel, oil smudges on the rack) and a small resource of steering tips (30-50 thousand km).

Salon

Interior finishing materials are of average quality, as a result, the appearance of crickets is a matter of time. The main sources of sound are: a decorative trim on the center console, a plastic trim around the door windows, a ceiling light, and front seat adjustment mechanisms. Opel boldly integrated a lot of modern electronics into the Astra, unfortunately, the sores were not long in coming. The most significant ones are an arbitrary reboot of all on-board equipment (the reason has not been established), a failure of the standard alarm, spontaneous lowering of windows and a failure of the air conditioning compressor.

Outcome:

Opel AstraJ- inexpensive, economical and reliable vehicle for everyday use. Thanks to the combination of modern looks, decent dynamics and good handling, the car will be a good option for young and practical car enthusiasts.

If you are the owner of this car model, please describe the problems that you had to face during the operation of the car. Perhaps it is your feedback that will help the readers of our site when choosing a car.

Best regards, editors AvtoAvenu

Opel astra fourth generation(index J) debuted in 2009. Its attractive lines make it stand out sharply from its dull predecessors. First-hand cars are rare. Among the cars imported from the West, the dominant ones are those restored after an accident.

Undercarriage

In addition to the beautiful "body", Astra IV received a number of new technical solutions. An example is the suspension design. In the front there are the time-tested McPherson struts, and in the back there is a regular beam or a Watt mechanism supplemented by a system of levers. The latter can significantly improve behavior on the road, but significantly increases the cost of repairs. Some owners of vehicles with innovative rear suspension complain about loud performance, especially on short side joints and bumps.

Sport versions can be equipped with FlexRide adaptive dampers. However, their service life is shorter than that of conventional shock absorbers.

Massive bottom wishbones allow you to change the silent blocks separately. But the ball joint is updated only with the lever. It saves that all elements of the lever are durable.

The interior remains in good condition for a long time. Opel is characterized by a large number of buttons and switches. There are almost 50 of them on the center console and steering wheel alone.

Another example of technical innovation is the electric parking brake. Fortunately (in terms of operating costs), this solution is only offered as an option (in expensive trim levels like the Cosmo).

The parking brake mechanism quickly rusts during prolonged non-use (non-use) and in wet weather.

Rear brake calipers may clatter over time. Often, the ailment will win by stuffing grease into the caliper guides. There is also acidification of brake calipers. For repair it is necessary to disassemble and clean the mechanism.

Opel Astra J was offered with two options for power steering - electromechanical and hydraulic. You can determine the type of amplifier by opening the hood. In the presence of EUR, there is no reservoir and amplifier pump. In the presence of power steering, there is a reservoir and a pump located on the left side of the engine.

Engines

The high cost of used Asters, forcing most buyers to look for cheaper options with modest engines. Due to the relatively large weight of the Opel Astra IV (130 kg heavier than the Opel Astra III), the base 1.4-liter gasoline engine with a capacity of 100 hp. - far from the best choice. He has to work hard, and therefore consumes a lot of fuel - up to 11 l / 100 km. Ultimately, this will affect the resource. The most optimal, in terms of operating and maintenance costs, is the 1.6-liter 16-valve aspirated A16XER.

Both motors are quite reliable and durable. The timing belt of the 1.4-liter aspirated is driven by a chain, and the 1.6-liter is driven by a toothed belt. In the base 1.4, ignition coils sometimes fail. The reason is corrosion inside the rod. Vibration accompanies malfunctions. It is important that in the event of malfunctions in the ignition system, when the engine is running on fewer cylinders, the destruction of the catalytic converter does not occur.

The larger 1.6 uses a phase regulator mounted on the intake and exhaust camshafts. Sometimes he starts making noise. The first, as a rule, is the intake camshaft phase regulator.

1.6 liter Gas engine with a power of 115 hp. there are not enough stars from the sky. But at least it doesn’t cause problems.

Turbo engines with a working volume of 1.4 and 1.6 liters have promising characteristics. Even the 120-horsepower 1.4 Turbo handles the Astra with confidence, thanks to its good elasticity.

1.4 Turbo has a fatal defect - piston cracking. The problem occurs on a segment of 50-100 thousand km. At the same time, the engine stops pulling and starts consuming a large amount of oil. The larger 1.6 Turbo doesn't show such weakness.

Diesel versions were not officially supplied to Russia. The choice of such specimens must be approached carefully. They are all equipped with a particulate filter. Most preferred is the 2.0 CDTI turbodiesel - the successful successor to the 1.9 CDTI. Such cars are very rare, and besides, they are very expensive.

Opel Astra with 1.7 CDTI is much cheaper. Average fuel consumption is in the range of 5.5-7.5 liters per 100 km. For everyday travel, this advanced Isuzu unit is sufficient. Only occasionally does the differential pressure sensor of the particulate filter or the EGR valve fail.

1.6 CDTi appeared in 2014. It uses a Denso injection system. Malfunctions are rare here, but at the same time, some owners had to change the turbocharger under warranty.

Specifications Opel Astra J (IV)

Version		1.7 CTDI	1.7 CTDI	2.0 CTDI
Engine		turbodiesel	turbodiesel	turbodiesel
Working volume
Arrangement of cylinders / valves
Maximum power
Maximum torque
Performance
Maximum speed
Acceleration 0-100 km / h
Average fuel consumption in l / 100 km

Incorrectly seated window seals at speeds exceeding 100 km / h cause loud aerodynamic wind noise.

The headlights often fog up and a software bug causes the automatic headlight range control to malfunction.

When working quickly with the lever, instead of the first, it may turn on reverse gear... Elimination of the defect implies re-alignment of the gear selection mechanism and the installation of a new stage.

On Astrakh 2010-2011, the clutch pedal return spring breaks. Opel carried out a service campaign to eliminate the defect. In addition, the shaft bearings of the six-speed manual transmission M32 do not differ in durability.

Incorrect operation of the on-board electronics control module quickly discharges the battery if the dipped beam or dimensions are left on for a long time. Opel has finalized the software.

In vehicles with 2.0 CDTI (engine code A20DTH), injectors malfunction due to errors in the software of the engine control unit. Updating the software solved the problem.

The exhaust system is prone to premature corrosion.