Vauxhall Meriva Common Problems and Solutions
The Boot Won’t Open
Problem:
You can’t open the boot.
Solution:
This issue is caused by your boot switch, which will need replacing if you want to continue using your boot. We always keep boot switches in stock for the Meriva because they are known to fail regularly.
Difficulty level
Losing Brake Power
Problem:
The car is taking a long time to come to a complete halt.
Solution:
Everyone knows that brake pads need frequent replacement, but the Meriva wears them out very quickly indeed. Usually, they last around 18,000 miles. You’ll need to replace all your brake pads at the same time if you want to maintain even braking, and we sell the Meriva brake pads for each wheel.
Difficulty level
Brake Pads
Knocking Noise From Suspension
Problem:
You can hear a knocking noise from your suspension, especially when driving over uneven surfaces.
Solution:
You might think this is a suspension problem, but it's actually your steering rack. If you don’t replace the steering rack promptly, you risk causing serious damage to your suspension system. Therefore, order your replacement from us as soon as possible.
Difficulty level
Steering Rack
The Boot Won’t Open
Problem:
You can’t open the boot.
Solution:
This issue will be caused by your boot switch, which needs replacing if you want to continue using your boot. We always keep boot switches in stock for the Meriva because they are known to fail regularly.
Difficulty level
Losing Brake Power
Problem:
The car is taking a long time to come to a complete halt.
Solution:
Everyone knows that brake pads need to be replaced regularly, but the Meriva wears through brake pads very quickly indeed. Typically, they last around 18,000 miles. You’ll need to replace all of your brake pads at the same time if you want to maintain even braking, and we sell Meriva brake pads for each wheel.
Difficulty level
Brake Pads
Knocking Noise From Suspension
Problem:
You can hear a knocking noise coming from your suspension, especially when driving over uneven surfaces.
Solution:
You may think this is a suspension problem, but the real cause is your steering rack. If you don’t replace the steering rack promptly, you’ll risk causing serious damage to your suspension system. Order your replacement from us as soon as possible.
Difficulty level
Steering Rack
Power steering fault
Problem:
It has been known for the power steering to fail on the Vauxhall Meriva, making the vehicle extremely difficult to manoeuvre. This fault has even been known to cause the steering to jam, and it is a common problem on this vehicle. Watch the video below to see the power steering fault in action.
Solution:
Some Vauxhall dealers would repair the vehicle free of charge, but oddly enough, this fault was never subject to a recall.
Difficulty level
Steering problems
Problem:
A very common fault on the Meriva is hearing a loud clunking noise from the front end and sounds from the dashboard area. This is caused by a faulty steering rack and column.
Solution:
Unfortunately, the only way to resolve this issue is to have a new steering rack and column fitted.
Difficulty level
Steering Rack
Low oil levels
Problem:
The 1.0L Meriva is known for using a lot of engine oil.
Solution:
For these vehicles, check the oil levels weekly. Ensure the oil is a golden brown colour, and levels are at least halfway and not exceeding the full mark. Top up the oil if necessary, and immediately change the oil and oil filter if the oil appears black.
Difficulty level
Squealing noise from wheels
Problem:
When you are driving at a speed typically under 30mph and hear a squealing noise, it indicates that your brake pads are binding. The brake pads on the Vauxhall Meriva usually last no longer than 18,000 miles, and this noise suggests they need replacing.
Solution:
Fitting new brake pads will resolve this issue. Remember to fit both sides of the car simultaneously to ensure even braking.
Difficulty level
Brake Pads
Gear changing problem
Problem:
If you notice difficulty changing gears, especially when engaging any of the gears, it likely indicates a gear linkage issue.
Solution:
Whichever gear you are having trouble engaging, you will need to have that linkage replaced to fix the issue.
Difficulty level
Gear Linkage
Knocking noise from suspension
Problem:
If you notice a knocking noise coming from the suspension when driving over bumps or rough surfaces, it is most likely a problem with the steering rack.
Solution:
To stop the knocking noise, you will need to have the steering rack replaced.
Difficulty level
Steering Rack
Can’t Get Into First Gear
Problem:
You can shift smoothly into other gears, but the car won’t engage into first gear.
Solution:
The gear linkage on older Meriva models tends to wear out. It’s quite possible that your gear linkages are worn, but you won’t need to replace the entire gearbox. Check our parts list for replacement gear links, and you can fit them in less than 20 minutes.
Difficulty level
Gear Linkage
Can’t Get Into First Gear
Problem:
You can shift into other gears without issue, but the car won’t engage into first gear.
Solution:
The gear linkage on older Meriva models tends to wear out. It’s quite likely that your gear linkages are worn, but you won’t need to replace the entire gearbox. Check our parts list for replacement gear links, and you can fit them in under 20 minutes.
Difficulty level
Gear Linkage
Loose Seats
Problem:
The passenger seat feels loose and unfastened.
Solution:
In September 2010, a number of Merivas were shipped from the factory with incorrectly fitted fixing bolts on the passenger seat rails. The seat rails will need to be replaced, and the fixing bolts added. You can order these directly from us and carry out the repair yourself.
Difficulty level
Loose Seats
Problem:
The passenger seat feels loose and unsecured.
Solution:
In September 2010, a number of Merivas were produced with incorrectly fitted fixing bolts on the passenger seat rails. The seat rails will need to be replaced with the correct fixing bolts installed. You can order these directly from us and carry out the repair yourself.
Difficulty level
Brakes Engaging
Problem:
When driving from a cold start, the brakes seem to engage. Sometimes, there is also a grinding noise.
Solution:
This could be caused by a few issues. It might be that the ABS sensor is faulty, in which case you will need to find a replacement in our store and fit it. Alternatively, it could be a sticking valve in the modulator itself, which would require replacing the entire modulator. It’s also worth inspecting your brake pads and discs to check if they are binding or corroded.
Difficulty level
ABS Sensor
Brakes Engaging
Problem:
When starting the vehicle from cold, the brakes seem to engage. Occasionally, a grinding noise may also be heard.
Solution:
This could be due to several issues. It may be that the ABS sensor is faulty, in which case you will need to find a replacement in our store and fit it. Alternatively, it could be a sticking valve in the modulator itself, which would require replacing the entire unit. It’s also advisable to check the condition of your brake pads and discs to see if they are binding or corroded.
Difficulty level