Opel Vectra C 1.8, 122 PS, 5-speed manual (2002–2005)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Opel Vectra C (2002-2008): known problems and buying guide

  Below-average reliability. Check the timing chains, the fuel pump and the gearbox for antifreeze before you buy.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. On a manual, listen for a whine or hum on the test drive. Feel for shifter pitching under acceleration and braking. Either sign means the M32 bearings are wearing.
2. Start the engine and watch the battery warning light. Ask whether the alternator was replaced. A light that stays on means the charging system is failing.
3. Check every steering column switch, the indicators, the wipers and the instrument cluster. A scanner is needed to read the steering column module's fault codes. A dead switch or cluster is a warning.
4. Bounce each corner of the car and look at the springs. Broken springs or worn shock absorbers are a bad result. Listen for knocks from the front axle on a bumpy road.
5. Look under the car at the exhaust. Flaking or holed pipes are a bad sign. The usual fix is a new system from behind the catalytic converter.
6. Ask an Opel dealer to check the VIN for open campaigns, including the handbrake recall. Ask whether the extra handbrake spring was fitted.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions