Vauxhall Insignia Common Problems and Solutions
Excessive Noise and Vibration With High Revs (2.0-ltr CDTI)
Problem:
When your revs are high, the engine gets very noisy, and the car starts to vibrate.
Solution:
This isn't that common, but it does happen. The fault is down to a broken or damaged turbocharger control solenoid valve. Fortunately, these are always available in our store, and they are very easy to replace.
Difficulty level
Loss of Power (2.0-ltr CDTI)
Problem:
The engine is rapidly losing power, and the engine failure light is lit.
Solution:
The EGR radiator vacuum plug is either loose, damaged, or not installed. Buy a replacement from our parts list and install it as quickly as possible as it will cause unnecessary wear and tear on your car's internals.
Difficulty level
Steering Wheel Vibration
Problem:
The steering wheel vibrates excessively when you're driving.
Solution:
Check the rear front lower arm bracket. This will probably be worn out and will need to be replaced. You'll also need to look for a replacement bearing for both sides, which you'll be able to buy directly from us. As with any suspension issues, don't forget to check how your tyres might have been affected. They may have lost pressure or been pushed out of balance.
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The Boot Won't Stay open
Problem:
You're trying to put something into the boot, but it keeps closing.
Solution:
The gas is escaping from the support struts, and that means you'll have no control over the boot door at all. You'll need to look for some replacement struts in our online store and replace the existing ones.
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Juddering Clutch
Problem:
One of the most consistently reported problems with the Insignia, you've found that the clutch judders when you push it. You will also notice that the car is hesitant to accelerate.
Solution:
You're going to need to replace the entire dual-mass flywheel. This can be very costly if you shell out for a mechanic to do it for you. You can save a lot of time and money by finding a replacement on our parts list and replacing it yourself.
Difficulty level
Slowing Down and an Unpleasant Noise
Problem:
The car has started to slow down, and you can hear an unpleasant squeaking noise coming from the rear of the car.
Solution:
This is a known problem with the Insignia and is being caused by the rear brakes binding. It usually affects older models with plenty of miles on the clock. You'll need to replace the brake pads and discs, but you'll find plenty on our website.
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Power steering failure
Problem:
This is a common problem on these vehicles, and is known for the power steering to give way, rendering the steering back to standard steering. This problem is well known to Vauxhall, and for some strange reason has not been subject to a recall.
Solution:
If you are experiencing this, call the Vauxhall dealer and they should fix the problem for you at no cost as it is a manufacturing fault.
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ABS warning light flashing
Problem:
When driving your Vauxhall Insignia and have noticed that the ABS warning light is flicking on and off, or is now staying on permanently, this means you most likely have an ABS sensor fault.
Solution:
Have a diagnostic check run, to decipher exactly which sensor is at fault, and once identified, have it replaced to remedy the problem.
Difficulty level
Gear changing problems
Problem:
If you are noticing that you are having some trouble changing gears on this car, particularly at higher speeds, then you could have a problem with the centre clutch plate.
Solution:
To fix this, the gearbox will need to be removed, taken apart, cleaned and re-greased to stop this part sticking. This can be an expensive repair.
Difficulty level
Heated seat failure
Problem:
If you have noticed that the heated seats on your car are not working, this is a common fault on the Insignia. The seat heaters are known to fail, and they can't be fixed without taking the seats apart.
Solution:
The heater pads can be very expensive to replace, or you maybe better off replacing the whole seat secondhand.
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Engine rattling problem
Problem:
On the 1.8L petrol Insignia it has been known you may hear a rattling sound coming from the engine when driving the car. This problem is caused by a faulty bracket on the air box.
Solution:
To fix this problem, you will need to replace the bracket.
Difficulty level
DPF warning light
Problem:
If you have noticed that the DPF warning light comes on your dashboard display and stays, then you may have a problem with the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). This filter is responsible for burning any harmful particulates in the exhaust system to reduce emissions. Check out the video below:
Solution:
Try driving at 50-60mph in either 3rd or 4th gear for about 15-20 mins to allow the DPF to get hot enough to burn off the particulates. This should put the light out on the dashboard, but if not, then you will have to replace the DPF.
Difficulty level
The Radio Switches Itself Off
Problem:
Your car stereo switches off at random times and won't turn back on again.
Solution:
There are a lot of reported issues with the Insignia stereo. Most will be solved by having a software update. It's worth checking your battery before you spend time on software updates, though. Check your battery voltage and your alternator charging rate, which will also affect the stereo's performance. If they are not performing as they should, you can find replacements here.
Difficulty level
Water in Boot
Problem:
There is water in the boot. In cold weather, the water can freeze, and in warmer weather, it can encourage musty smells and mould.
Solution:
Your first step should be to try and block the two vents in the boot. This can, in some cases, resolve the issue. More commonly reported is the need to apply a sealant to the rubber grommet on the right-hand side of the boot hinge. This should resolve the water problem.
Difficulty level
Key Stuck in Ignition
Problem:
When you come to a stop and try to remove the key from the ignition, it is stuck.
Solution:
If your key isn't worn, then you have a problem with the ignition mechanism. You'll have to replace the entire ignition unit, which you can find on our site.
Difficulty level
Loss of Brake Power
Problem:
Even when you push the brake pedal down hard, the car takes a lot longer to stop than it should.
Solution:
This should only happen if your car was made in August 2016 and is due to the wrong kind of front brake hose being fitted. You'll need to replace it with the right one, which is easy to find on our parts page.
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