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 becomes very noisy, and the car begins to vibrate.
Solution:
This isn't very common, but it does occur. The issue is caused by a broken or damaged turbocharger control solenoid valve. Thankfully, these are always in stock at our store, and they are very simple to replace.
Difficulty level
Loss of Power (2.0-ltr CDTI)
Problem:
The engine is quickly losing power, and the engine failure light is illuminated.
Solution:
The EGR radiator vacuum plug is either loose, damaged, or not fitted. Purchase a replacement from our parts list and install it promptly, as it could cause unnecessary wear and tear on your car's internals.
Difficulty level
Steering Wheel Vibration
Problem:
The steering wheel vibrates excessively whilst driving.
Solution:
Check the rear lower arm bracket at the front; it is likely worn out and needs replacing. You should also look for replacement bearings for both sides, which you can purchase directly from us. As with any suspension issues, don't forget to inspect how your tyres might have been affected—they may have lost pressure or have been pushed out of balance.
Difficulty level
The Boot Won't Stay open
Problem:
You're trying to put something into the boot, but it keeps shutting on you.
Solution:
The gas is escaping from the support struts, which means you'll have no control over the boot door at all. You will need to find some replacement struts in our online store and swap out the existing ones.
Difficulty level
Bootlid Tailgate Struts
Juddering Clutch
Problem:
One of the most frequently reported issues with the Insignia is that the clutch judders when you press it. You will also notice that the car is reluctant to accelerate.
Solution:
You'll need to replace the entire dual-mass flywheel. This can be very expensive if you pay 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 doing it yourself.
Difficulty level
Dual Mass Flywheel
Slowing Down and an Unpleasant Noise
Problem:
The car has begun to slow down, and you can hear an unpleasant squeaking noise coming from the back of the car.
Solution:
This is a common issue with the Insignia caused by the rear brakes binding. It usually affects older models with many miles on the clock. You will need to replace the brake pads and discs, but you'll find plenty available on our website.
Difficulty level
Brake Pads
Power steering failure
Problem:
This is a common issue with these vehicles, as the power steering tends to fail, reverting to standard steering. This problem is well known to Vauxhall, and for some strange reason, it has not been subject to a recall.
Solution:
If you are experiencing this, contact the Vauxhall dealer, and they should resolve the issue for you at no charge as it is a manufacturing fault.
Difficulty level
ABS warning light flashing
Problem:
When driving your Vauxhall Insignia and you notice that the ABS warning light is flickering or now staying on permanently, it most likely indicates an ABS sensor fault.
Solution:
Run a diagnostic check to identify the faulty sensor, and once determined, replace it to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Gear changing problems
Problem:
If you notice difficulty shifting gears in this car, especially at higher speeds, it could indicate an issue with the centre clutch plate.
Solution:
To resolve this, the gearbox must be removed, disassembled, cleaned, and re-greased to prevent this part from sticking. This can be an expensive repair.
Difficulty level
Heated seat failure
Problem:
If you notice that the heated seats in your car aren't working, this is a common problem with the Insignia. The seat heaters are known to fail, and they cannot be fixed without removing the seats.
Solution:
Heater pads can be very costly to replace, or you might be better off replacing the whole seat secondhand.
Difficulty level
Engine rattling problem
Problem:
On the 1.8L petrol Insignia, it has been reported that you may hear a rattling sound coming from the engine while driving. This issue is caused by a faulty bracket on the air box.
Solution:
To solve this issue, you should replace the bracket.
Difficulty level
DPF warning light
Problem:
If you notice that the DPF warning light appears on your dashboard and remains illuminated, you may have an issue with the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter). This filter is responsible for burning 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 minutes to allow the DPF to reach a sufficient temperature to burn off the particulates. This should cause the warning light on the dashboard to go out, but if it doesn't, then you'll need to replace the DPF.
Difficulty level
The Radio Switches Itself Off
Problem:
Your car stereo switches off randomly and won't turn back on.
Solution:
There are many reported issues with the Insignia stereo. Most can be resolved with a software update. However, it's advisable to check your battery before spending time on updates. Test your battery voltage and your alternator's charging rate, as these also impact the stereo's performance. If they are not operating correctly, replacements can be found here.
Difficulty level
Battery
Water in Boot
Problem:
There is water in the boot. In cold weather, the water can freeze, and in warmer weather, it can cause musty odours and mould.
Solution:
Your first step should be to try blocking the two vents in the boot. This can, in some cases, resolve the problem. 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 solve the water issue.
Difficulty level
Key Stuck in Ignition
Problem:
When you come to a standstill and attempt to remove the key from the ignition, it becomes jammed.
Solution:
If your key isn't worn, then you have a problem with the ignition mechanism. You'll need to replace the entire ignition unit, which you can find on our site.
Difficulty level
Ignition Control Unit
Loss of Brake Power
Problem:
Even when you press the brake pedal firmly, the car takes considerably longer to stop than it ought to.
Solution:
This should only occur if your car was manufactured in August 2016 and is caused by the incorrect type of front brake hose being installed. You will need to replace it with the correct one, which is easy to find in our parts page.
Difficulty level
Brake Hose