Common problems with the Vauxhall Astra

The Vauxhall Astra has been around since 1980, so there’s plenty of information available about common faults. Some of the most frequently reported issues for the Astra include:

• Gear linkage

• Handbrake

• Brake pedal travel

• Camshaft sensor

• Coolant temperature sensor

• Mass air flow sensor

• Clutch

• Suspension

Since there have been numerous iterations of this popular model over the years, these problems vary depending on the car's specs and when it was made.

2008 model faults

2010 model faults

2015-2020 model faults

Vauxhall Astra Estate problems

Vauxhall Astra 1.7 CDTI problems

Are Vauxhall Astras reliable?

Vauxhall Astra recalls

Vauxhall Astra 2008 and 2010 faults

Here are four common faults found in the 2008 and 2010 Astra models, including how much a repair is likely to cost.

1. Suspension issues

The front suspension bushes often wear faster than expected and subsequently require repairs. 

Suspension repairs for a Vauxhall Astra cost £146.48 on average according to WhoCanFixMyCar data.

2. Electrical faults

Electrical faults are extremely common with the instrument cluster often giving incorrect readings. Likewise, electric windows sometimes fail. 

The average cost of repairing electrical faults according to our data is £55.40, while the cost of repairing electric window problems is £75.82.

3. Clutch problems

It can be difficult to pull away smoothly in 2008 and 2010 Vauxhall Astras thanks to clutch issues which can be resolved through the use of modified parts.

The average cost of clutch repairs for the Astra is £546.79, but in reality fitting a modified part would likely be cheaper than this.

It's also worth checking whether you can spot any oil on the ground beneath your car; if there's a leak this could indicate a problem with the crankshaft. According to our data, the average cost to replace a crankshaft on an Astra is £246.62.

4. Engine problems

This primarily relates to the 1.9-litre diesel engine which is one of the least reliable. Engine issues are often accompanied by excessive smoke from the exhaust, and the water pump system has also been known to fail.

Engine and cooling faults cost £106.78 on average to repair for the Vauxhall Astra based on our data.

5. Gear linkage issues

In older Astra models you might struggle to change between first gear, second gear, and reverse. If this is the case it indicates there is a gear linkage issue.

Particularly in older Astra models this is usually due to the fact that the plastic ball joint has popped out of place.

Gear linkage issues cost £195.79 on average to repair.

Vauxhall Astra 2015 to 2020 faults

Most owners of 2015-2020 Vauxhall Astras are generally pretty satisfied with their cars. However, there are a few common problems to be aware of. 

1. Electrical issues

The Intellilink infotainment system is a common pain point for owners, particularly of the 2019 Vauxhall Astra model, with many reporting faults.

Moreover, engine management lights sometimes appear unnecessarily, indicating there is a problem when that isn’t actually the case.

Electrical repairs cost £55.40 on average.

2. ECU 

Another common problem is a faulty ECU which has been reported by a number of Astra drivers. The ECU, or engine control unit, is responsible for controlling the electronic components within a car.

ECU repairs cost £120.36 on average for a Vauxhall Astra.

3. MAF sensor

Dirt often builds up around the mass air flow sensor in Vauxhall Astras, causing it to give out incorrect readings.

Typically, sensor repairs cost £84.12 on average for an Astra.

Vauxhall Astra Estate Problems

The same common faults listed above apply to the Vauxhall Astra estate, with the most common being related to electric components.

Fortunately, when it comes to safety you don’t have to worry; experts at Euro NCAP rated the Astra estate car a full five stars when it was tested in 2015.

Vauxhall Astra 1.7 CDTI problems

ECU problems are commonly reported in the 1.7 CDTI Astra. Symptoms may include:

• Car won't start

• Car starts but the engine cuts out shortly after

The issue stems from a faulty part, specifically the engine control unit (number: 16267710). You can find the ECU bolted to the back of the diesel pump.

Are Vauxhall Astras reliable?

Vauxhall is one of the most popular car manufacturers in the UK with a reputation for building reliable cars. However, in the 2021 WhatCar? Reliability Survey, the Astra finished 23rd out of 24 family cars with a score of 86.6%, suggesting it isn’t as dependable as some other Vauxhall models. 

CarBuyer also ranked the Astra 24th place out of 29 in its reliability table for 2021. 

With an all new Astra arriving soon, only time will tell if Vauxhall has improved the reliability of this popular model.

Vauxhall Astra recalls

Having problems with your Vauxhall Astra? WhoCanFixMyCar can help you find the right garage at the right price.

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