Vauxhall Astra Common Problems and Solutions
Suspension and Wobbling
Problem:
The Astra wobbles slightly while driving, making it more difficult to maintain a straight line.
Solution:
In most cases, this will be caused by erosion of the front suspension bushes or the top turrets. To make the car drivable, you will need to replace the bushes and the turrets. Shop for your bushes and turrets right here.
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Juddering Clutch
Problem:
The clutch jerks whenever you shift gear while driving.
Solution:
Before you start replacing the clutch, check the ground beneath the car for any signs of oil leakage. If there is oil under the vehicle, the culprit is likely the crankshaft seal, which can affect the gears' integrity and cause that juddering. This can be a straightforward replacement, but if the issue has persisted for some time, it may have caused serious damage. In such cases, you might need to replace the entire camshaft. Find and purchase this from our range of Vauxhall parts.
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Starting problems
Problem:
If you notice a delayed start or a clicking noise, it is likely that your starter motor or solenoid terminals are corroded.
Solution:
You can give the terminals a clean with a wire brush, grease them up, and refit them, but if this doesn't work, you'll need to fit a new part.
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Airbag and EML lights illuminated
Problem:
These lights may light up on the dashboard unnecessarily due to loose connectors. These block connectors are located under the front seats.
Solution:
To resolve the issue, turn off the engine and remove the connectors before securely fitting them back in place. You might need to clean the connectors, but ensure they are tightly secured once you’ve finished.
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Mass Airflow Sensor
Problem:
This part measures the amount of air entering the engine so that the ECU can achieve the optimal fuel/air mixture at the right time, so failures in the mass airflow sensor can disrupt the vehicle.
Solution:
You can either try cleaning the sensor connectors with carburettor cleaner and lightly scrubbing, but if this fails, then you need to replace the part. Search for your replacement Astra engine sensors at Breakeryard.com.
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Mass Airflow Sensor
Coil Pack failure
Problem:
A failure in the coil pack will cause the engine to misfire and lead to hesitations when starting. This occurs because the ignition coil supplies power to the spark plugs and initiates the engine.
Solution:
The only solution to this problem is to purchase a new one.
Difficulty level
Coil Pack
Coolant temperature Sensor
Problem:
This part controls the coolant temperature. If it is not functioning properly, the ECU will believe the temperature is higher than it actually is, which results in the mixture not being fully enriched.
Solution:
A replacement sensor will resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Coolant Temperature Sensor
Idle Control Valve problems
Problem:
The idle control valve manages the amount of air entering the engine when it is idling. It can either restrict airflow, leading to stalling, or allow too much air, causing very high revs. Check out the video below for more information.
Solution:
You can either attempt to clean the idle control valve with carb cleaner or, if that doesn’t work, you will need to purchase a new part.
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Idle Control Valve
Camshaft sensor problems
Problem:
The camshaft sensor informs the ECU (Engine Control Unit) of the top dead centre position on the engine. A faulty sensor could prevent the engine from starting or cause difficulty starting it.
Solution:
You will need to locate and clean the contacts of the sensor, and if this doesn't resolve the issue, you will need to fit a new one. Find replacement engine sensors for your Vauxhall Astra here.
Difficulty level
Camshaft Sensor
Gear Linkage
Problem:
It becomes more difficult to shift into first, second, or reverse gears.
Solution:
This issue mainly stems from problems with the gear linkage. In earlier Astra models, it is common to find that a plastic ball joint has simply come loose. This causes particular problems with the lower gears. Installing a new gear selector linkage will resolve the issue, but it does require a bit of practice and the right tools. Find your part on our website to fix the problem more quickly.
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Faulty handbrake
Problem:
In Astra models from 2009 to 2010, the handbrake cable mounting can sometimes come loose from its support bracket, resulting in the inability to use the handbrake.
Solution:
It's a simple fix. Just buy and replace either the support bracket or the mounting. You can find this and get a quote on our website within seconds.
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Hill Start Issues
Problem:
The hill start hold feature isn’t functioning correctly and often exceeds the specified time limit.
Solution:
You will need to take your Astra to a Vauxhall dealer, who will perform a software update on the Electronic Brake Control Module.
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Brake Pedal Travel
Problem:
The brake pedal feels looser than it should, with excessive travel before the brakes engage. This diminishes braking effectiveness and speed, increasing the risk of accidents.
Solution:
The exact cause of this issue, which is common in 2015 to 2018 models, can stem from various potential problems. You will need to inspect every component of the brake and clutch hydraulics. In some instances, a complete clutch replacement or a full overhaul of the brake components may be necessary. You can find clutch replacement and brake components on our website, thanks to our extensive range of parts.
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Wobbly Seats
Problem:
The front seats are unstable, causing wobbling when driving.
Solution:
This led to a recall of Astra Ks manufactured in 2019, and the only solution is to weld the seat frames properly. In more severe cases, you might need to buy and replace the front seats entirely. Shop for your replacement front seats here.
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