Vauxhall Astra Common Problems and Solutions
Suspension and Wobbling
Problem:
The Astra wobbles slightly while driving, making it harder to drive in 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 driveable, 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 judders whenever you change 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 beneath the car, then the problem is probably the crankshaft seal, affecting the integrity of the gears and causing that juddering. This can be an easy replacement job, but if it’s been going on for a while, then it may have caused serious damage. In those cases, you may need to replace the entire camshaft. Find and buy this from our range of Vauxhall parts.
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Starting problems
Problem:
If you have noticed delayed starting or a clicking sound then it is likely that you have corroded terminals on the starter motor or solenoid.
Solution:
You can give the terminals a clean with a wire brush, grease them up and refit, but if this doesn't work you will need to fit a new part.
Difficulty level
Airbag and EML lights illuminated
Problem:
These lights can become illuminated on the dashboard unnecessarily due to loose connectors. These block connectors can be found under the front seats.
Solution:
To fix the problem, turn off the engine and remove the connectors before securing them back in place. You may need to clean the connectors, but make sure they are fitted tightly in place once you’ve finished.
Difficulty level
Mass Airflow Sensor
Problem:
This part measures the amount of air going into the engine so that the ECU can get the perfect mixture of fuel/air at the appropriate time, so failures in the mass airflow sensor can be disruptive to the vehicle.
Solution:
You can either try cleaning the sensor connectors with carb cleaner and lightly scrubbing, but if this fails then you need to replace the part, Search for your replacement Astra engine sensors through Breakeryard.com.
Difficulty level
Mass Airflow Sensor
Coil Pack failure
Problem:
A failure on the coil pack will result in the engine misfiring and cause hesitations when the engine starts. This is because the ignition coil sends power to the spark plugs and starts the engine.
Solution:
The only solution to this problem is to purchase a new .
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Coil Pack
Coolant temperature Sensor
Problem:
This part is responsible for controlling the coolant temperature. If it is not working properly then the ECU will think the temperature is higher than it actually is, which results in the mixture not being fully enriched.
Solution:
A replacement sensor will solve the problem.
Difficulty level
Coolant Temperature Sensor
Idle Control Valve problems
Problem:
The idle control valve is responsible for controlling the amount of air getting to the engine when the engine is running idle. It will either not allow enough air to the engine, which could result in stalling, or allow too much air to get to the engine which results in really high revs. Check out the video below for more information.
Solution:
You can either try to clean the idle control valve with carb cleaner or, if this doesn’t work, you will need to buy a new part.
Difficulty level
Idle Control Valve
Camshaft sensor problems
Problem:
The camshaft sensor is responsible for informing the ECU (Engine Control Unit) where top dead centre is on the engine. A faulty sensor will mean the engine may not start, or there may be problems starting it.
Solution:
You will need to locate and clean the contacts of the sensor, and if this doesn't fix the problem 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 harder to change into first, second, or reverse gears.
Solution:
This is largely due to problems with the gear linkage. In earlier Astra models, it is common to find that a plastic ball joint has simply popped out. This causes particular problems with the lower gears. Installing a new gear selector linkage will fix the problem, but it does require a little practice and the right tools. Find your part on our website to solve the problem faster.
Difficulty level
Faulty handbrake
Problem:
In Astra models from 2009 to 2010, the handbrake cable mounting can sometimes come loose from its support bracket. This results in not being able to use the handbrake.
Solution:
A very easy fix. Simply buy and replace either the support bracket or the mounting. You can find this and get a quote on our website in a matter of seconds.
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Hill Start Issues
Problem:
The hill start hold feature isn’t working correctly and often exceeds the right time specification.
Solution:
You will need to take your Astra to a Vauxhall dealer who will do a software update on the Electronic Brake Control Module.
Difficulty level
Brake Pedal Travel
Problem:
The brake pedal is looser than it should, with excessive travel before the brakes are applied. This reduces braking power and speed, increasing the risk of accidents.
Solution:
The exact cause of this, which is common in 2015 to 2018 models, can be a variety of possible issues. You will need to examine every component of the brake and clutch hydraulics. In some cases, you may need a complete clutch replacement or a complete overhaul of the brake components. You find clutch replacement and brake components on our website thanks to our vast range of parts available.
Difficulty level
Wobbly Seats
Problem:
The front seats are not secure, leading to wobbling while driving.
Solution:
This led to a recall of Astra Ks produced in 2019, and the only solution is to weld the seat frames correctly. In more serious cases, you may need to buy and replace the front seats completely. Shop for your replacement front seats here.
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