Vauxhall Corsa Owners' Guide

The Vauxhall Corsa has long been one of the most popular hatchbacks in the UK, thanks to its combination of affordability, decent equipment levels and great fuel economy. Now in its fifth generation and available as an electric, hybrid or petrol car, the Corsa continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers. 

This owners’ guide compiles key information about your Corsa in one convenient place, covering service intervals, recommended tyre pressures, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you keep your car running smoothly. 

Vauxhall Corsa generations

Vauxhall Nova (Opel Corsa) A 1982-1993 

Launched as Opel’s S-series in 1982, the Corsa A was branded as the Vauxhall Nova in the UK. It allowed Vauxhall to position itself as a serious contender in the rapidly growing supermini market by delivering excellent value in a no-nonsense hatchback package.   

A facelift in 1990 introduced a smarter interior, a sleeker nose design, and a new turbo-diesel option. Over one million models were sold across Europe, foreshadowing the Corsa’s immense future success. 

Body styles: 

• Three-door hatchback 

• Five-door hatchback 

• Two-door saloon 

• Four-door saloon 

Key engine options: 

• 1.0-litre 45bhp petrol 

• 1.2-litre 55bhp petrol 

• 1.4-litre 60bhp petrol 

• 1.6-litre 74bhp petrol 

• 1.5-litre 60bhp diesel 

Vauxhall Corsa B 1993-2000 

In 1993, a new generation arrived, known this time in the UK as the Corsa. It had curvier, more modern styling and much-improved interior quality – though it failed to impress road testers at the time, who criticised its below-par ride quality. Nevertheless, the Corsa’s practicality and value for money continued to earn it a strong fanbase.   

A 1997 facelift sought to address some of the issues raised about the model’s handling – notably, Lotus oversaw tuning the suspension – resulting in a car that was more responsive and generally more pleasant to drive. 

Body styles: 

• Three-door hatchback 

• Five-door hatchback 

Key engine options: 

• 1.0-litre 50bhp petrol 

• 1.2-litre 65bhp petrol 

• 1.4-litre 70-90bhp petrol 

• 1.6-litre 108bhp petrol (GSi) 

• 1.5-litre 67bhp turbo diesel 

Vauxhall Corsa C 2000-2006 

Although it looked similar to its predecessor on the outside, the third-generation Corsa was almost entirely new underneath. Crucially, it was much better to drive thanks to chassis improvements, and the interior was more spacious – if a bit cheap-looking due to the plastics used.  

A facelift in 2003 introduced ‘Twinport’ engine technology, which slightly boosted efficiency and power. Sales of the GSi version continued to decline, leading to it being phased out entirely. 

Body styles: 

• Three-door hatchback 

• Five-door hatchback 

Key engine options: 

• 1.0-litre 59bhp petrol 

• 1.2-litre 73-78bhp petrol 

• 1.3-litre 69bhp turbo diesel 

• 1.4-litre 88bhp petrol 

Vauxhall Corsa D 2006-2014 

The D‑series brought sharper styling and a noticeably stronger build. Early EcoFLEX models prioritised emission cuts, and in 2011, the facelift added Euro 5 diesels with start-stop and sportier trim. The interior, previously one of the Corsa’s downfalls, was of much higher quality, and sharp handling topped off this well-made package.  

A powerful hot hatch version was introduced, known as the VXR, featuring a 1.6-litre 189bhp turbo engine. Additionally, a minor facelift in 2010 introduced an optional touchscreen infotainment system.  

The Corsa D was so accomplished that it received WhatCar?’s Car of the Year Award and was almost named European Car of the Year – though it just missed out on the title in the end. 

Body styles: 

• Three-door hatchback 

• Five-door hatchback 

Key engine options: 

• 1.0-litre 64bhp petrol 

• 1.2-litre 78-83bhp petrol 

• 1.4-litre 98bhp petrol 

• 1.6-litre 150bhp turbo petrol (GSi) 

• 1.6-litre 192bhp turbo petrol (VXR) 

• 1.3-litre 73bhp turbo diesel 

Vauxhall Corsa E 2014-2019 

The fifth-generation Corsa’s bright new look could have fooled you into thinking it was entirely new – in reality, it was a heavily revised version of the Corsa D. The E-series upped its game with tech upgrades like 7-inch infotainment screens, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated steering, climate control, parking-camera systems and improved safety, making it a strong contender against the Ford Fiesta and Renault Clio. 

Body styles: 

• Three-door hatchback 

• Five-door hatchback 

Key engine options: 

• 1.0-litre 75bhp petrol 

• 1.2-litre 70-130bhp petrol 

• 1.3-litre 75bhp turbo diesel 

• 1.4-litre 73-88bhp petrol 

Vauxhall Corsa F 2019-present 

The latest Corsa is all-new, based on Stellantis’ CMP platform. It offers a range of petrol, hybrid, and all-electric engine options. It is 40kg lighter than its predecessor, despite being approximately the same size, and boasts a spacious interior. Under the bonnet, it has the same underpinnings as the Citroen C3 and Peugeot 208.   

A facelift in 2023 saw the all-electric version renamed from Corsa-e to Corsa Electric. It also introduced the bold “Vizor” front end, Matrix IntelliLux headlights, a 10-inch Snapdragon-powered infotainment system, wireless charging, and over-the-air updates. 

Body styles: 

• Five-door hatchback 

Key engine options: 

• 1.2-litre 74bhp petrol 

• 1.2-litre 99-128bhp turbo petrol 

• 1.5-litre 100bhp BlueHDi diesel (no longer available) 

• 1.2-litre 99bhp mild hybrid 

• 1.2-litre 134bhp mild hybrid 

• 50kWh 134bhp electric 

• 51kWh 156bhp electric 

Service intervals

It’s generally recommended to get your car serviced once a year or at the mileage interval outlined in your owner’s manual. For example, this 2016 Vauxhall Corsa manual recommends servicing every 12 months or 20,000 miles, whichever comes first.  

 Most modern Corsas have a service display on the dashboard that indicates when maintenance is required, including when the engine oil needs to be changed. The replacement interval can vary significantly depending on driving conditions.   

How to reset the service light on a Vauxhall Corsa 

Corsa F models (no touchscreen) 

• Press and hold the button on the end of the left indicator stalk with the ignition off. 

• Switch the ignition on while holding the button. 

• You will see a 10 second countdown on the instrument cluster screen.  

• Once the countdown has finished, you can release the button. 

• The service light should now be reset. 

Tyre pressure

What are the tyre pressures for a Vauxhall Corsa? 

The recommended tyre pressure varies depending on the spec and engine of your car. The table below shows tyre sizes and pressures listed for the Corsa on TyrePressures.com. 

However, you should always check this information before adjusting your tyres. You can find the correct pressures: 

• In your vehicle handbook/owner’s manual. 

• Printed on the sill of the driver’s door. 

• On the inside of the fuel tank cap. 

Read our guide to tyre pressure for more information. 

How to reset the Vauxhall Corsa tyre pressure light 

The tyre pressure reset method varies depending on the year and spec of your Corsa. 

Corsa F with central touchscreen 

• Ensure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure.  

• Press the car icon button near the central touchscreen.  

• Select ‘under-inflation initialisation’.  

• Confirm that you have adjusted the tyre pressure by pressing ‘yes’.  

• The process is complete. 

Earlier models 

• Ensure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure.  

• With the ignition off, press and hold the tyre pressure reset button. It shows the same warning symbol as the light on the dashboard and may be located near the middle of the dash.  

• Switch the ignition on while holding the button down.  

• The warning light will flash and then go out. The tyre pressure has now been reset. 

Engine oil

It’s crucial to use the correct engine oil – find out why in this guide. 

The recommended oil can vary between different Astra engine configurations and depending on whether the car uses petrol or diesel. 5W-30 and 0W-20 are the most common oil grades.  

Your owner’s manual will provide information about the right oil for your vehicle. 

Vauxhall oil specifications 

Vauxhall specifies engine oil based on the engine type, age and emission control technology. For UK Vauxhall vehicles, GM (General Motors, Vauxhall's parent company before Stellantis) used a system called dexos to define oil standards. 

Vauxhall is now part of Stellantis, so oil specifications have started to shift away from dexos standards. Stellantis vehicles mostly follow the PSA B71 oil specifications. 

What is the oil capacity of a Vauxhall Corsa? 

Oil capacity varies depending on the engine size and model year. The Corsa requires between three and 5.5 litres of oil. 

When topping up, remember to add oil gradually and check the dipstick to avoid overfilling. Too much oil puts more pressure on seals and gaskets and can lead to increased friction between parts.   

Battery

The table below shows suitable batteries for a selection of Vauxhall Corsa engine variants. 

Things to consider when choosing a battery for your Vauxhall Corsa 

• Check your engine type and year. Battery requirements can vary. 

• Identify if your car has a start-stop system. If it does, you’ll need an AGM or EFB battery. 

• Match the physical dimensions. It’s important to choose a battery that fits your car. 

• Check battery specifications. Ampere hours (Ah) is a measure of capacity; cold cranking amps (CCA) indicates starting power. 

• Check the hold-down type. Most models use B13.  

• Verify compatibility. Cross-reference with your owner’s manual to ensure you choose the right battery. 

Want to make your new battery last longer? Check out our maintenance tips in this guide. 

Warning lights

What do the warning lights mean on a Vauxhall Corsa? 

Dashboard warning lights are triggered by the car’s electronic control unit (ECU) when a problem is detected. You can learn some information by looking at the shape and colour of the light, but for a detailed diagnosis, you’ll usually need to book a diagnostic test. 

• Red lights indicate a severe problem. You should stop driving and contact a mechanic. 

• Yellow lights are less urgent – you can continue driving to your destination, but you should book your car into a garage. 

Learn more about car warning lights and what they mean in this guide. 

Vauxhall Corsa warning lights you might not know 

Vauxhall Easytronic transmission electronics (ESU) warning light 

Some Vauxhall Corsas have an Easytronic system, which enables the car’s computer (ECU) to control the manual gearbox and clutch, allowing the vehicle to run in automatic or semi-automatic mode. The Easytronic warning light is the letter “F”.  

The system isn’t essential, so you can continue driving if it comes on; however, you should still have it investigated by a mechanic to determine the cause of the fault. 

Vauxhall descent control system (DCS) warning light 

The DCS is designed to maintain a safe speed when driving downhill so that you don’t have to brake constantly.   

The warning light for this system looks like a vehicle going down a hill. It switches on to signal a fault with the DCS – or, if it flashes, it means the system is not ready.   

DCS is an extra feature rather than a crucial safety system, so you don’t have to stop driving if the warning light comes on. However, if you want to keep enjoying the convenience of this system, you’ll need to arrange a repair. 

Spotted a warning light but don’t know what’s causing it? Don’t guess – book a diagnostic test! 

Common problems

Whether you’re already a proud Corsa owner or you’re in the market for one, it’s helpful to know what kind of problems the model experiences.      

 Our Vauxhall Corsa common problems guide explores this topic in detail, so we’ll just cover two top issues here. 

1. Electrical issues 

Just like its cousin, the Astra, the Vauxhall Corsa has received numerous reports of electrical problems over the years, ranging from infotainment system glitches and electric window failure to poor wiring connections and faulty sensors.  

Electrical issues are often intermittent and can be challenging to pinpoint without a diagnostic test. The generations most affected are D, E and F. 

2. Clutch and gearbox wear 

Clutch and gearbox issues have been reported across several Corsa generations, particularly in higher-mileage vehicles. Premature clutch wear, often noticeable through juddering or slipping, is more common in 1.2 and 1.4 petrol models equipped with stop-start systems.  

Unusual clutch pedal behaviour (such as sticking or feeling spongy) is often linked to worn hydraulic systems or linkage components. Automatic Corsas have also drawn some criticism for hesitation and jerky shifting during low-speed driving.  

A certain amount of clutch and gearbox wear is to be expected as cars age – especially if they cover a lot of miles – but these issues are worth being aware of if you’re thinking of buying a used Corsa. 

Find out what else you should look for when buying a used car. 

Need help diagnosing car problems? Check out the following guides for advice: 

• Diagnose car problems & find the right fix 

• Diagnose strange noises in your car & find a fix 

Top Vauxhall Corsa questions and topics

How long is a Vauxhall Corsa? 

A Vauxhall Corsa is approximately 4,060mm long, although the length can vary slightly depending on the model year. 

How to open the bonnet on a Vauxhall Corsa 

• Locate the bonnet release lever in the cabin. In Corsa F models, the lever is in the passenger footwell near the door frame. 

• Pull the release lever. You’ll hear the bonnet click open. 

• At the front of the car, slide your fingers under the partially open bonnet to the left of the Vauxhall badge to locate the second bonnet release catch. 

• Push the release catch up, lift the bonnet and secure it in place. 

What insurance group is a Vauxhall Corsa in? 

The Vauxhall Corsa falls into insurance groups 1 to 30. 

• 2019-present models: 10 to 27 

• 2014-2019 models: 2 to 30 

• 2006-2014 models: 1 to 26 

Examples: 

• 1.0i 12V ecoFLEX Expression 3d (2006-2014) - group 1 

• 1.2 Life 3d (2014-2019) - group 2 

• SE 1.2 (75PS) 5d (2019-present) - group 10 

• White Edition 1.4i Turbo (150PS) S/S 3d (2014-2019) - group 19 

• 1.6T 16V SRi 3d (2006-2014) - group 26 

• 1.2 Turbo Hybrid 145 Ultimate 5dr e-DCT6 (2019-present): group 27 

• 1.6T VXR (Performance Pack) 3d (2014-2019) - group 30 

Learn more about car insurance and how to get it cheaper. 

How much is road tax for a Vauxhall Corsa? 

The amount of road tax you must pay for a Vauxhall Corsa depends on the model year and engine. Models registered after 1 April 2017 pay the standard annual rate of £195. For cars registered before that date, the tax rate depends on their emissions.   

Read this guide for more information about car tax and how much you can expect to pay. 

How to open the fuel cap on a Vauxhall Corsa 

The following instructions are for recent Corsa models. Older versions may have a slightly different method for opening the fuel cap – check your owner’s manual if you're unsure.  

• Unlock the car.  

• Push the fuel flap on the right-hand side to release it.  

• Pull the flap open.  

• Unscrew the filler cap.  

• You can now refuel. 

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• Common problems with the Vauxhall Corsa

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