Opel Mokka A (2012-2019): known problems and buying guide

Before you buy

1. On a 1.4 Turbo, start the engine cold and listen. A rattle or clatter on start means a stretched timing chain. Gebrauchtwagenberater advises walking away if you hear it.
2. On a 1.4 Turbo, ask for service records and listen for knocking under load. Piston damage can start from about 50,000 km. Walk away if the engine knocks or loses power.
3. On a 6T40 automatic, drive from rest and through the gears. Jerks between 3rd and 6th mean a worn spring in the clutch pack. Ask for fluid change records every 40,000-50,000 km.
4. On a 4x4, check that the rear drive engages and that the dash shows no "Allradantrieb aus" message. Ask whether the 2013-2014 software update was done.
5. On a diesel, ask whether the car was used on longer trips. A scanner can read the EGR fault codes P0401 and P0402, and the particulate filter soot load (needs a scanner).
6. On a 1.4 Turbo, check the coolant level with the engine cold. Look for leaks at the expansion tank and water pump. Ask whether the thermostat or pump was replaced.
7. Check the oil level after the test drive and ask for oil service records. Oil loss is common on this car, and repairs are costly.
8. On a 1.4 Turbo, pull away from rest in first gear. A hesitation or stumble is the software fault in the table. Ask whether a software update was done.
9. Check the VIN for open recall campaigns with a Vauxhall or Opel dealer. The campaigns in the table may apply to your car.