Opel Astra H with mileage: successful and unsuccessful engines and gearboxes. Salon and equipment

This is the second part of a large review of Astra H. If you want to know how quickly the body of this car rots, what breaks first in the chassis and what electrical “glitches” the owners of older specimens face, read.

Mechanical boxes

So I would like to say “no problems with manual transmissions”, but no ... As with Fords of the same years, the “younger” manual transmission is here with a surprise. The situation is complicated by the fact that the motors she got in a pair are quite powerful. However, the rest of the manual transmission does not shine with health.

The five-speed gearbox of the F 17 series and its “weakened” version of the F 13 are descended from the old Cadets, and in their latest version they were installed on Opel cars from the late 90s. The old box was not ready for the growth in power of 1.6 engines and the appearance of 1.8 engines: bearings literally fall apart from the load. We even included this checkpoint in .

But if at a venerable age Vectra B it was possible to change the manual transmission to a larger and more reliable one from the F 16-F 18-F 23 series, along with new drives and hubs, then such a unit no longer fits under the hood of Astra H, larger manual transmissions simply abut in steering rack.

In the photo: Salon Opel Astra Hatchback (H)" 2004–07

Most car owners stubbornly change manual transmissions to the same ones or repair them, which is quite expensive, because if the bearings of the output shaft are damaged, the box body suffers, and literally all of its components are damaged by metal chips. Basically, they try to change the box to a used one, with a good chance of repeating the trouble. A new manual transmission costs more than 200 thousand rubles, rare sales of "stocks" of dealers at prices of 40-60 thousand rubles pass very quickly.

Fortunately, they have learned to solve the problem in at least two ways. The first is to transfer the attachment points of the power unit. A shift of just a few centimeters allows you to put more secure box F 23 series. A more reasonable option is to install a Chevrolet manual transmission, which is essentially an old Opel F 16 manual transmission assembled in a compact case, or an F 16 bulkhead into a Chevrolet body. This method is much more reasonable, and the owner does not risk cancellation of registration due to rough design alterations.

Identifying a "problem" box on Astra is quite simple. Raise the car on a lift, turn on the engine, spin the wheels. And it's better - with the shots rims. Turn on the fourth or fifth gear, turn off the engine and listen. Damaged output shaft bearings make a characteristic noise, it will be perfectly audible.

The price of the correct "treatment" now ranges from 30 to 70 thousand rubles, depending on the novelty of the installed components. Repairing the original box is largely useless: a lot of metal debris, damage to most elements, and the initially unsuccessful design of roller bearings with a split plastic cage is simply doomed. When slightly larger metal particles appear in the oil, they quickly destroy the weak differential and the main pair, which also work part-time as the oil pump of the box, and often the axis of the satellites or gears break through the case and there is nothing special to repair.

Also keep an eye on the oil level in the manual transmission and change it sometimes - Opel boxes traditionally leak. Moreover, old-timers advise pouring into a box not officially recommended by the manufacturer ATF Dextron II, and not oil for mechanical boxes.

For cars with a 1.8 engine and a 1.3 diesel engine, the probability of a box failure is especially high. According to unofficial estimates, more than a third of cars with such engines and mileage of more than 60 thousand kilometers have gone through at least one manual transmission replacement / repair. For cars with a 1.6 engine, the risk is significantly less, the box better tolerates more weak engine, but it is still not worth relaxing. The risks increase greatly among those who like sharp starts, slippage in winter and shock shifts “down” when overtaking.

On cars with a 2.0 Turbo engine, a manual transmission of the M32 series was installed, and it also sometimes breaks down, and in exactly the same way as the “younger” one. But in this case, the problem is not massive, the differential is an order of magnitude stronger, and there are relatively few cars with such motors, the problem is not so noticeable. That's just a dual-mass flywheel is not very happy opelevodov. More precisely, its price and resource. Against the background of otherwise very economical designs, such a “consumable” seems redundant. The cable drive is quite reliable, the main complaints are the wear of the backstage and the deterioration of the inclusion of first and second gears. This is treated either by replacing the backstage, or by installing new liners of the ball joint of the lever.

In the photo: Opel Astra Hatchback 2.0 turbo(H)" 2004–07

FROM diesel engines 1.7-1.9, the “good old” five-speed F 23 is most often found, it rarely has such problems, but it’s not a problem to find a completely live unit. The main complaints are about the cable drive and backstage wear, the problem is similar to that of the M32 box drive.

Junior 1.3 diesels are most often equipped with a six-speed M20 - the same M32, but lightweight. Of the introduced features, there is a weak differential, so it’s not worth skidding much, and the cleanliness of the oil needs to be monitored more carefully.

automatic boxes

Instead of a “real” automatic transmission, on cars with younger diesel engines and gasoline engines up to 1.6, the Opel Astra H was mainly equipped with an EasyTronic robotic transmission. In fact, this is a conventional manual transmission of the F 17 / M 20 series with all its problems and shortcomings, but also equipped with an automatic clutch drive.

In the photo: Torpedo Opel Astra Sedan (H) "2007–14

The operation of such boxes with a very calm driving style can be considered quite satisfactory, especially with regular adaptation of the setting point and handbrake assistance on steep hills. But in the absence of an uphill start assistance system and ABS with not the best algorithms of operation, it cannot replace a full-fledged “automatic” - the driver constantly risks being left without traction at the right time and at the same time “enjoys” pokes when switching “down” under traction. In addition, in urban traffic jams, the resource of the clutch actuators and the clutch itself is less than 50-60 thousand kilometers, and the price of the gearbox actuators “bites”.

The whole bunch of problems of mechanical boxes F17 remains with “easy-tronics”, so a robotic gearbox is perhaps the worst option for Astra.

Those who want a “real automatic transmission” will have to invest in a more powerful motor. Either on petrol 1.8, or find a very rare petrol on Astra 2.2 of the Z 22YH series. In any case, it will be a four-speed Aisin "automatic" of a very respectable design. Aisin 50-40NE was installed with the 2.2 engine, very strong and familiar from many Opel models starting from Vectra A, and with 1.8 its “younger brother” in the face of Aisin 60-41SN is combined.

The “youngest”, despite its excellent pedigree, still does not belong to super reliable boxes, although by modern standards it has a very good resource, and is not prone to unexpected breakdowns. Very reliable mechanics boxes and a dirt-resistant valve body give rise to confidence in the complete indestructibility of this box. But in practice, with runs over 150 thousand, you can expect wear on the Forward package and fourth gear clutches. The latest generations of this box also wear out the gas turbine blocking pad very aggressively during active movement. And with the growth of oil pollution, there are also problems associated with the wear of the linear solenoid for blocking the gas turbine engine, and later - the rest of the valves.

Pictured: Opel Astra Sedan (H)" 2007–14

With smooth pedaling, the automatic transmission can go beyond 300 thousand, especially if the oil is changed more often, but in our reality, even with runs of 200 thousand, it most likely should go through with the replacement of all worn components. Fortunately, repairs are usually not too expensive, and consist of cleaning and scheduled replacement of rubber bands, replacing worn-out clutches of the forward and 3-4 package, as well as. The rest of the filling can go many times longer if you do not allow movement at low pressure or oil level and overheating. However, even in this case, the losses will be minimal.

Cars until 2006 still had a specific problem of getting antifreeze into the oil, associated with the design of radiators manufactured by Valeo. Then these radiators spoiled the life of all automakers who used their services quite well, and Opel was one of the main buyers of their products.

Later design of radiators with similar problems is rare, usually the cause is a mild accident and an unwillingness to change a radiator that has not leaked visually, or “defrosting” of the cooling system. At the slightest doubt about the normal operation of the box, it is worthwhile to carry out the so-called "glycol test" ATF (on good service stations they can do this) or just check for emulsion. Moreover, the glycol test will not hurt to carry out purely prophylactically on any machines with an automatic transmission heat exchanger in the main radiator.

The old AF 22 box, also known as Aisin AW 50-40, found with the 2.2 engine, has a resource comparable to the resource of the machine itself, provided that the auto-neutral function is turned off in time. Otherwise, it requires an oil change on time and careful operation.

And since, due to natural archaism, this automatic transmission cannot do partial blocking of the gas turbine engine and blocks it only from the third gear, it is not afraid of aggressive movement. Dies mainly from overheating, the appearance of cracks in the Forward / Direct drum or at an extreme degree of wear, lost oil level and mechanical problems. However, if you decide to put this old "automatic" instead of AW60-41 to Astra from 1.8, the idea is doomed to failure - too many alterations will have to be done.

Engines

With motors, Opel is traditionally doing very well, although at one time 1.6 engines were among the "problematic".

Pump Z18 XER / Z16 XER

original price

Cars before restyling are mainly represented by related engines 1.6 and 1.8 of the Z 16XE and Z 18XE series, which, in terms of block and cylinder head design, go back to glorious ancestors in the face of Opel Ascona and Kadett. Less common are variants of the same engines with a volume of 1.4 liters of the Z 14XE series. These 16-valve engines have a resource of 250 thousand kilometers, are distinguished by a well-thought-out design, and of the serious disadvantages here is perhaps a rather weak control unit, prone to overheating and the appearance of solder cracks. The problems that have arisen are usually initially associated with numerous peripheral failures and only then are they repairing the ECU.

In the photo: Under the hood of the Opel Kadett "1988–91

ignition modules and throttle valve have more than a decent resource and need only regular maintenance and cleaning. But the EGR system and the adjustable intake manifold are poorly adapted to our realities. The EGR valve becomes dirty and stops closing, the manifold is also contaminated with soot and oil, the length adjustment dampers fail, up to the breakage of their axis.

But the basis of the engine is made with a margin: the pistons are a little prone to coking, but nothing more, the resource of the valve seals is limited in the first place. With the timely replacement of the timing belt and the elimination of leaks that inevitably arise due to the primitive crankcase ventilation system and clogging of the hole in the throttle space, the motor lasts a long time.

As I said, 250 thousand before overhaul is an almost guaranteed option, there are engines with runs over 400 thousand, only with a moderate oil appetite of 100-200 grams “per thousand”. And when the engine finally breaks down, the repair will not be expensive, because the price of spare parts is ridiculous by today's standards.

The newer 1.6 and 1.8 engines of the Z 16XEP / Z 16XER and Z 18XER series differ primarily in the new cylinder head and the presence of a phase shifter in the timing system of the XER versions, which slightly raises the torque at low speeds and increases the maximum power - the 1.8 engine produces very good by the standards mid-2000s 140 hp

The absence of hydraulic compensators is less noticeable, now the valves need to be adjusted with washers, best of all - once every 60 thousand, although the manufacturer optimistically writes about 150. And the extra noise during operation is often associated precisely with the “gone” gaps. A controlled thermostat also appeared, increased working temperature, an oil heat exchanger appeared, the type of oil filter has changed, and the pump is now not driven by a timing belt.

In the photo: Opel Astra Hatchback (H) "2004–07

The changes had little effect on the maximum resource of the piston group, it is still very high with a reasonable maintenance interval, but the probability of failure individual nodes increased. Especially a lot of criticism is caused by phase shifters and their valves, which are prone to unpleasant knocks and cause revs to float. But there is no EGR, and the intake is not polluted. Heat exchangers are prone to leaks in fans of cold annealing, and sometimes they also oil filter is damaged.

A controlled thermostat turned out to be a rather harmful option, DEXOS-approved oils actively “curl” after overheating, and detonation at high temperatures occurs in motors. At the same time, the quality of the thermostat seals is not too high, so the operating temperature is usually noticeably lower than the calculated one, and if desired, you can set the “cold” thermostat to 85 degrees and forget about the early aging of the oil and the failure of the heater. At the same time, the life of the couplings and valves of the phase shifters also increases, because the latter react poorly to a minimal increase in temperature and frequent stay in traffic jams.

These motors with slightly different calibrations can also be found with the designation A 16XER and A 18XER, they are a little more “thoughtful”, but in fact the motors are the same. The unpleasant features, however, not related to the engines themselves, include the new European technical regulations that have appeared, requiring oil changes at long intervals on cars with these engines. Cars from Europe often have a noticeably worse condition of engines, even with a confirmed mileage, than Russian ones. Consider this when buying and try to change the oil more often, for example, once every 10 thousand kilometers, use oils with a viscosity of SAE 40 and without DEXOS approval - the additive that provides it causes severe coking piston rings and abundant deposits inside the motor.

The 2.0 motors of the Z 20LEH /Z 20LER /Z 20LEL series are based on the old block Opel, familiar from such series of motors as C 20XE, X 20XEV and "millionaires" C 20NE. Of course, with a turbine, the resource is usually significantly less than that of an eight-valve ancestor, but the engines take care of their 200-300 thousand, and the maintainability of the design and the price of spare parts are pleasantly impressive. By and large, apart from the rarity and not the most successful wiring, the motors simply have no serious problems. Unless, of course, we do not consider the style of operation and possible tuning with an increase in power to 280-350 hp as a problem.

In the photo: Under the hood of Opel AstraOPC(H)" 2005–10

In imported European cars, such exotics as 1.2 and turbocharged 1.6 engines can be found, but the chances are about zero.

Diesel engines are mainly represented by the Z 13DTH series, which in practice has a very obstinate character. With high efficiency and a very high degree of forcing, there are enough problems with both fuel equipment and cylinder head corrosion. But the main complaints at low mileage are still on the turbine, EGR, intake leaks and clogged catalyst and particulate filter.

In the photo: Opel Astra OPC (H) "2005–10

Timing kit 1.6/1.8 16V

original price

The presence of a chain in the timing drive is presented by some as a big plus, but in practice this is just a big headache. The resource of the chain is difficult to predict, it ranges from 60-70 thousand to almost 200, depending on the style of movement, oil and its change intervals. The high efficiency of the motor often does not justify increased costs on its maintenance on age machines. And problems with oil flow through the turbine often lead to burnout of pistons and nozzles.

Engines 1.7 and 1.9 are so rare that there are simply no reviews on their use on Astra, but practice shows that engines are noticeably better than diesel 1.3, with a slightly greater appetite. Ask at least.

Summary

It turned out to be a good car, and for many years it confidently competed with its own “heir” in the person of Astra J, if only because sometimes reliability, practicality and interior space are much more important than modernity and beauty. If you buy, look for with minimal damage to the body and careful operation. This is banal, but there are too many cars literally “crumpled in a circle” and somehow restored. This is not the case when it will rot anyway, with a good choice, you can enjoy the car for many more years.

Your voice

When choosing an Opel Astra H in a car, it attracts a nice design that still does not seem outdated, a spacious interior, excellent driving performance and not too expensive service and repair. But is it worth buying this Astra modification, how to choose it correctly and how often will Opel Astra H make you do repairs?

As for body repair, sooner or later they will have to do. The weak points on the body of the Astra H are the thresholds, or rather the part of them that is covered by the door. Due to contact with the heels of the driver and passengers, the paintwork on them quickly loses its original appearance. Another weakness- trunk lid. The fact is that a nice chrome bar is fixed on it, which eventually begins to rub against the body, as a result of which rust forms in places of abrasions. So when inspecting the body of the car you like, pay special attention to this place. Otherwise, everything is not so bad. The Astra of the third generation has nothing to do with the too quickly rusting Opel of the early nineties of the last century.

The salon of most cars still has not lost its former attractiveness. But since you looked into it, do not be too lazy to check the work of all electrical systems. Their reliability in Astra H is average. On many cars, the same air conditioner no longer works. Quite often, the owners of a German car have to solve problems with cruise control, audio system, power windows that suddenly refused to work.

There were many engines offered for the Opel Astra H, but in our market the 1.6-liter power unit was most widely used, which, depending on the modification, could develop 105 and 115 Horse power. It is this engine that can be called optimal for the Astra H. Do not forget, except that every 60 thousand kilometers it is necessary to change the timing belt in it. Sometimes on the market you can find Astra H and with gasoline engine volume of 1.4 liters. Its main disadvantages are excessive oil consumption and insufficient power for a relatively heavy car. Suffers from oil gluttony and a power unit with a volume of 1.8 liters.

In the European market, Astra H with diesel engine 1.3 CDTI, which was developed jointly with the engineers of the Italian Fiat. To the pluses this engine worth attributing low consumption fuel and high enough power for its volume. But it was not without its downsides. The main ones are relatively rapid wear and the need for constant monitoring of the oil level. If it is not enough, then this can lead to a jump in the camshaft drive circuit.

Turbodiesel 1.9 CDTI terms power characteristics looks even more preferable, but there are more problems with it. The 150 horsepower version, for example, has problems with dampers during intake manifold. And if the repair in this case is even more or less available, then replacing the collector itself will cost a pretty penny. There are also complaints about the exhaust gas recirculation valve. In addition, the 1.9 CDTI is famous for its not the most durable dual-mass flywheel. But that's not all. The turbine, which allows this power unit to develop such high power, is also far from eternal. And replacing it is by no means cheap. So Opel Astra with 1.9 CDTI can hardly be recommended for purchase.

And if you really want to ride it on diesel car, then it is better to throw all your strength into searching for Astra H with a 1.7 CDTI engine. In this power unit no turbocharger and dual mass flywheel, which had a positive effect on its reliability. However, it was not without its shortcomings. The reliability of the oil pump and turbocharger in the 1.7 CDTI leaves much to be desired.

The manual gearbox on the Opel Astra H is quite reliable. Is it the seals crankshaft over time, they begin to sweat a little. The classic "automatic" has also proven itself well. For most, its maintenance will come down to oil change, which must be done every 60 thousand kilometers. But from robotic box shifting Easytronic is better to refuse. The clutch in it can wear out after 100 thousand kilometers.

The suspension of the Opel Astra H is strong enough. Claims can only be made against the rear springs, which can break, for example, when they fall into a deep hole. Moreover, this problem is typical not only for station wagons, which are often corny overload, but also for hatchbacks. Of the rest of the "consumables" most of the complaints about the racks front stabilizer that start knocking too soon. Sometimes on the Opel Astra H you can also find the IDS + electronically adjustable suspension. It is better to refuse it immediately, since the cost of its repair is incommensurable with the cost of the used car itself.

The braking system and steering on the Astra of the third generation do not cause problems. Unless, before buying, do not be too lazy to examine the steering rack for leaks.

A strong middle peasant - this is the definition that was assigned to the Opel Astra H during the years of its production. It is also true in terms of reliability. Some frankly weak knots in german car no, but from time to time he will annoy with minor troubles. So after all, competitors in this regard are no better. And most are even worse. So Opel Astra H with a gasoline engine and a manual gearbox can be recommended for purchase. With due attention, the car will not let you down. And even more so it will not ruin with a possible repair.

Verdict

Weak/problematic areas:

• Quick-corrosion sills and space under the chrome-plated trunk bar
• Excessive oil consumption of 1.4 and 1.8 liter engines
• Problem diesel engines
• Non-wearing robotic gearbox
• Fast-wearing front shock absorbers

Strengths / reliable sides:

• Relatively reliable engines 1.6 liters
• Reliable transmissions (manual and automatic)
• Strong suspension
• Reliable braking system
• Reliable steering system

Average prices for a used Opel Astra H as of 12.2019

Year of issue	Price for Opel Astra H, rubles
2004	237 000
2005	292 000
2006	309 000
2007	352 000
2008	366 000
2009	383 000
2010	453 000
2011	498 000
2012	602 000
2013	660 000
2014	735 000
2015	781 000

Opel Astra H (Opel Astra H) - third generation compact cars golf class (class), representative of the Opel Astra family. Premiere Opel Astra H took place at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show. The model has been produced since 2004 on the main Opel conveyors in Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium, as well as in the UK, Australia and some other countries. Later, in connection with the launch of the generation, the production of some models of this generation was transferred to the branches of General Motors in Eastern Europe, Turkey and Southeast Asia. Since 2010, Opel Astra N has been produced in Russia.

Review of Opel Astra N

The 2004 Opel Astra H lineup consists of the 5-door Opel Astra H Hatchback and the Opel Astra H Caravan station wagon. It was these models of Opel Astra 2004 that were first presented to Europeans at the company's stand in Frankfurt.

The Opel Astra H 2005 lineup includes the 3-door hatchback Opel Astra H GTC and the representative of the second generation of the sports version of the Opel Astra OPC created on its basis. Due to excellent data and affordable price The 3-door Astra H GTC immediately becomes very popular, especially among the younger audience. After some modernization, the hatchbacks of the Opel Astra H 2007 GTC series are produced and successfully sold in the USA, Canada and Mexico under the name Saturn Astra. A year later, the restyled Opel Astra H 2008 OPC Nurburgring Edition appears, named after Opel's victories in the competition at the famous Nürburgring race track. Opel Astra 2005 hatchbacks of the OPC and GTC series are still considered one of the best cars in golf history.

For the Opel Astra family, 2007 was a particularly fruitful year. After the debut at the Bologna Motor Show, restyled versions of the station wagon, as well as 3 and 5-door hatchbacks, rolled off the assembly line. In addition, the model range of Opel Astra 2007 was replenished with a very interesting one. They became stylish Opel convertible Astra TwinTop. Due to the wide range of available modifications of restyled Opel models Astra 2007 the price of cars from German dealers ranged from 16,360 to 30,150 euros.

The final link model line this generation of cars has become Opel sedan Astra 2008 release. The car was designed specifically for countries where, unlike Western Europe, the body of this type is persistently popular. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the debut of the 2008 Opel Astra sedan took place at the auto show in Istanbul.

The production of the 2009 Opel Astra H-generation models was moved from the main production capacity companies to the enterprises of the GM concern in Latin America, Thailand, Turkey and Poland. Since 2010 production Opel cars Astra N is operated by a Russian company. There, the production of the following Opel Astra H models was mastered: Station wagon Opel Astra H price - from 628,900 to 762,900 rubles; sedan Opel Astra H price - from 613,900 to 747,900 rubles; Hatchback (5dv) Opel Astra H price - from 603,900 to 737,900 rubles.

Features Opel Astra N

Opel Astra H cars are based on the Delta GM global platform. The silhouette lines of the Opel Astra H Caravan and Opel Astra H Hatchback embody elegance and functionality. The dimensions of the station wagon are somewhat more impressive (4515x1794x1500 mm) than the similar parameters of the 5-door hatch (4249x1753x1460 mm). The wheelbase of the Astra H Caravan (2703 mm) also outperforms the Astra H Hatchback at 839 mm. The ratio of useful volumes of the trunk 540: 350 liters is also in favor of more practical Opel Astra H Caravan. But with its dimensions, the hatch feels more confident in the city.

The contours of the Opel Astra H GTC are even more expressive and emotionally challenging. And the sporty character of the OPC series is perfectly emphasized by an aggressive sports body kit and exclusive wheels. The car is taller (+41 mm), wider (+51 mm) and stockier (-25 mm) than its 5-door counterpart. At the same time, the volume luggage compartment loses only 10 liters.

Opel Astra H TwinTop is deservedly called the most stylish convertible among golf classmates. Everything is optimally balanced in it: elegance and cockiness, muscularity and grace of lines. The Astra TwinTop convertible is swift and flawless with the roof open or lowered, and the large streamlined windshield reliably protects the driver and passengers from the headwind. Model dimensions - 4476x1831x1414 mm. Wheelbase - 2614 mm.

The fashionable 4-door Opel Astra H also boasts of its spaciousness. This is due to the fact that the designers endowed it with the same wheelbase (2703 mm) as the station wagon. Apparently, this is a significant component of the popularity of this model in our open spaces. Other dimensions of the car - 4587x1753x1458 mm. Trunk volume - 490 liters.

Opel engine range Astra generation H is sufficient so that everyone can choose a car for every taste. Opel Astra H can successfully be a reliable family car and sports car.

The petrol range consists of 4-cylinder engines with Ecoflex and Twinport technologies. The power limits of these power plants are from 75 to 140 horsepower with a difference in working volumes of 1.4 - 1.8 liters. And also from turbo engines of the ECOTEC family. The top-end Astra H Z20LEH engine delivers 240 horsepower in a 2.0-liter displacement.

The diesel range is no less interesting. From the economical and environmentally friendly 90 HP Z13DTH (1.3 liters) to the mighty 150 HP Z19DTH (1.9 liters). Depending on the engine power and year of manufacture, a 5- or 6-speed manual gearbox, or a 4- or 6-position Easy Tronic automatic transmission was installed on the cars.

For smooth running and excellent dynamic characteristics Opel Astra H meets the IDS chassis (InteractiveDriving System) with MacPherson struts in the front suspension and innovative rear axle with torsion bar.

As an option for convertibles, station wagons and sedans, the IDS Sport system with the SportSwitch function was offered. The main feature of this definitive lies in the fact that simply pressing a button on the center console makes the car's shock absorbers stiffer, and also enhances feedback on the steering wheel and sharpens the engine's response to pressing the gas pedal. This significantly increases the dynamics of the car. And with the constant damping control (CDC) function, the car is equally adequately controlled on any road surface. In GTC and OPC modifications, these systems are included in the basic package.

More about technical specifications cars and features model range Opel Astra N read on the pages of our website.

Buying a new car is a pleasant, but very expensive business. Those who want to save money are looking for cars on secondary market- It's cheaper here. To make a successful purchase, you need to know what to pay close attention to.

NERVOUS BREAKDOWN

Rewinding the mileage on the Astra is relatively simple, just replace the instrument panel with a fresher one. Do not rely on the odometer reading! Better compare the mileage with the marks in the service book by asking the dealer to check the authenticity of the MOT against the database. At the same time, order a complete diagnosis - it's not so expensive compared to the price of the "pig in a poke" itself. By the way, there is unspoken rule: if the specialists find only flaws honestly named by the seller, diagnostics are at your expense, and if there are hidden defects, the “forgetful” seller pays. You just need to agree on this in advance.

The Opel electrician contains many electronic units that communicate with each other via a multiplex (CAN bus) - in domestic conditions this makes troubleshooting difficult. And they happen. Either the ceiling light will light up for no reason, or the immobilizer will no longer recognize the native key. As a rule, it is enough to remove the terminal from the battery for a couple of minutes, and everything will return to normal.

More often than others, the CIM module of the steering column is buggy: you press on the horn, but it is silent. Other buttons located on the steering wheel also sometimes do not work, while the audio center may stop responding to its own controls. At an early stage, the defect was random in nature, so for a long time it was not possible to establish the cause. They changed the module under warranty, soldered the contacts, assembling one block from several, - it did not help. As a result, we came to a simple and reliable solution: in 2009, a steel U-shaped bracket was introduced, which compresses the body halves and provides reliable contact. For reference: the price of such a piece of iron is only 8 rubles.

It will not be cheap to make a new key to replace the lost one - 5700 rubles together with the firmware (this is the name of the process of "acquainting" the key with the immobilizer). In this case, you will definitely need a personal car card (Car-Pass) - take care of it like the apple of your eye.

musculoskeletal system

There were many engines installed on the "asters", but only the Z16XER and Z18XER (respectively 1.6 and 1.8 liters) took root in our market. They have a timing belt drive, so if in doubt about the authenticity of the mileage, replace it immediately. Until recently, the belt resource was 150 thousand km, but recently it has been officially reduced to 120 thousand km. We change rollers without hesitation.

The ignition module, which is inserted directly into the candle wells with its leads, delivers the most trouble. Over time, the ends crack (this happens with a careless replacement of candles), and then, consider, they arrived. Another reason - untimely replacement candles. According to the regulations, it is necessary every 30 thousand km, however, it happens that the central electrode by that time is significantly shortened due to erosion, which causes the spark gap to increase. Accordingly, the breakdown voltage increases - and the module burns out. We recommend checking the spark plugs at every maintenance (15 thousand km) and adjusting the gap. It is not out of place to carry a spare module with you, and in a reliable package so that it does not split while flying around the trunk.

The resource of the air conditioning compressor is unpredictable: some instances serve 150 thousand km without complaints, others fail even for new car. In half of the cases - due to a break in the winding of the switching clutch. Replacement does not always help, because a new node may well turn out to be with the same defect. Therefore, it is advisable to “ring” the winding with a tester before buying.

The diode bridge of the generator usually burns out due to an oversight by the owner himself: he damaged the right mudguard somewhere in the rut engine compartment and did not change it in time. Through the hole, dirt flies straight onto the generator, clogging its insides. Of course, both the unit itself and the V-ribbed belt that drives it cannot withstand it.

On cars manufactured in 2005–2007 with a 1.8 liter engine and automatic transmission serious problems created an engine cooling radiator combined with a box heat exchanger: due to the destruction of the partitions, the oil was mixed with antifreeze. If for a motor such a cocktail is highly undesirable, then for an automatic machine it is deadly! In those years, a recall campaign was carried out to replace radiators, and in advanced cases, complete boxes were also changed. Later, they began to be repaired, for which the manufacturer accredited a number of third-party companies that work on an official basis to this day. They do not sit idle, because even with a working cooling system, the resource of the machine barely exceeds 160 thousand km. Mechanical boxes serve about the same amount, regardless of the version (there are five of them), as well as the clutch.

Two types of steering racks were installed on the "asters" - with an electric and with an electro-hydraulic amplifier, and in different modifications, which even experts have lost count of. Some mechanisms please with adequate effort and clear feedback on the steering wheel, others, to put it mildly, not very much. The main claims against EGUR: even a serviceable unit does not work perfectly, and sometimes fails due to overheating. Well, at least it doesn’t steer where it pleases! To return the mechanism to working condition, you need to wait until it cools down.

Regardless of the variant of the amplifier, we carefully monitor the steering rods: by 60 thousand km, play is already noticeable in them (they are replaced separately). Tips are unlikely to require attention up to 150 thousand km. In the front suspension, the support bearings of the struts are called the conditionally weak link - they get clogged with dirt and begin to crackle. As a rule, dirt penetrates during a sharp rebound, for example, when driving off a curb, when the seal does not have time to work out after the rack parts going down, leaving a gap-loophole. Moral: "speed bumps" are better to push at low speed.

Front suspension: ball joints riveted to the levers, which is reasonable on this model: the resource of supports, silent blocks and the levers themselves (due to fatigue cracks) is approximately the same - under 180 thousand km. brake pads wear out by 30–40 thousand km, disks last twice as long.

Front suspension: ball bearings are riveted to the levers, which is reasonable on this model: the resource of the supports, silent blocks and the levers themselves (due to fatigue cracks) is approximately the same - under 180 thousand km. Brake pads wear out by 30-40 thousand km, discs last twice as long.

The front sensors are most often to blame for the failure of the anti-lock braking system, and they cannot be replaced separately from the hub. Less commonly, the hub has to be changed due to bearing wear. Both of these are costly. To rear hubs no complaints.

But rear shock absorbers often sweat; but this does not affect the effectiveness of their work - you can not rush to change.

ASTRA: LOGICAL FORECAST

The cost of maintaining the base model, although higher than that of some competitors ( ZR, 2011, No. 12 ), but remain quite acceptable. The sports modification of the OPC does not lend itself to such an accurate forecast, since here a lot depends on the driving ambitions of the previous owner. Of course, in general, these machines get much more, especially in terms of brakes and clutches.

The Zafira V compact van, built on the basis of the Astra N, has a similar list of diseases, but problems with the engine radiator and strut bearings did not affect it, since there is a different set of components and assemblies, and some suspension parts are also reinforced. Therefore, when you are convinced that machines built on the same platform suffer from the same birth defects, know that this is not always the case.

Opel Astra H (2004 - present): family traits

The third generation Opel Astra received the H index, and was introduced in 2004 in Istanbul. The third generation Astra replaced, and was produced until 2010, giving way to a new one. The production of the third Asters was deployed in Poland, and since 2008 in Russia. Competitors for the Astra of the second generation were: the first generation, the first generation, and other class golf cars produced in those years. In this review, we will pay attention to the engines that were installed on the third Astra, the price at which Astra can be bought today, equipment and some other details.

External review of the Opel Astra H

Interestingly, the drag coefficient of the Opel Astra H is slightly larger than that of previous car: 0.32, while the second Astra had this figure of 0.29. Astra H with a similar 1.6l engine became 60kg heavier than its predecessor, and the wheelbase was increased by 8mm. Asters were produced as: three and five-door hatchback, station wagon, sedan and convertible. The Opel Astra Hatchback was the most widespread, but the Opel Astra Sedan was also quite in demand. The body of the Astra was covered with a protective layer of zinc, but according to some owners, complaints about the quality of painting can still be made. According to dissatisfied owners, the paint swells, and the body begins to corrode almost after the second winter, but let's clarify - only a small number of reviews of the Opel Astra H 2004 - 2010 indicate this problem. The third generation Astra is shod with 205/55 R16 tires.

Salon and equipment

Some drivers will find the clutch pedal to be unusually long travel. Already in the minimum configuration - Essentia, Astra is equipped with steering wheel adjustment in two planes, electric power steering and four Airbags. Astra of the third generation can be praised for a good level of security, according to EuroNCAP results German car received 5 stars. For example KIA Cerato produced in the same years received 3 stars. AT minimum equipment Asters includes a 6.5-inch monitor - this is a monitor on-board computer, which displays data on fuel consumption and other vehicle indicators. Options Engoy is equipped with cruise control, climate control, rain sensors and light sensors. According to reviews Opel owners Astra H does not have the best sound insulation, so when choosing tires, you should pay attention to the noise level that these tires emit when rolling. Steering Astra by the standards of a golf class is very sharp, from lock to lock Astra's steering wheel makes 2.5 turns. Compared to the previous Astra, the interior width of the Astra H has increased by 3cm at the front and 2cm at the rear. Passengers seated in the rear of the Astra received 4cm of additional headroom and 17mm for the knees. The trunk of the Opel Astra Hatchback holds 350 liters, with the rear sofa folded down, the volume luggage compartment Hatchback increases to 1270 liters. Opel Astra Sedan holds 490 liters of luggage - a very decent figure for a golf class sedan.

Technical equipment and Specifications Opel Astra H

The least powerful, but at the same time the most reliable engine offered for the third Astra is a four-cylinder gear with a volume of 1.4 liters. The power of the sixteen-valve 1.4 Opel is 90 horsepower.

In gamut Astra engines H there are two petrol 1.6. The first produces 105hp, and the power of the second is 10 horsepower higher - 115 horsepower. On 1.6 engines, with a mileage exceeding 40,000 km, vibration was noticed at a speed in the range of 2,500 - 3,000, as a rule, this unpleasant moment is associated with the variable valve timing system.

1.8L engines produce 125 and 140 horsepower. Power plants with a volume of 1.8 l with a run of 70,000 suffer from leakage of the camshaft oil seal, and may also leak front oil seal crankshaft. Also, on engines with a volume of 1.6 and 1.8 liters, with runs over 50,000 km, the camshaft gear may jam. As a rule, before this, when starting the engine, a rattle is heard for a length of 2-3 seconds.

The most powerful gasoline units are 2.0L turbocharged engines. Their power: 170, 200 and 240 hp.

Turbodiesel engines were installed on the Opel Astra H 2004 - 2010: 1.3 - 90hp, 1.7 - 80 and 100hp, 1.9 - 120 and 150hp. According to experts, it is better to buy a gasoline Astra, since diesel engines require even more attention than petrol units Opel. If the power dropped significantly on the diesel Astra and the car began to smoke, the reason may be the particulate filter, which is already asking for replacement. A dual-mass flywheel is installed on Astra diesel modifications, over time it becomes the cause of knocks and vibrations, as a rule, replacement will be required after a run of 150,000 km.

On Astra modifications with 1.4 and 1.6L engines, drum brakes are installed at the rear, on more powerful Astras on all wheels disc brakes. Astra front pads are enough for 30,000 km, rear - drum pads for 60,000 km. The Astra brake discs themselves serve 60,000 km.

Buying a used aster is best with manual transmission. The mechanics from repair to repair will last at least 100,000 km, and sometimes 200,000 km. Reverse gear mechanical box Asters are not equipped with a synchronizer, which is why immediately after stopping, the reverse speed on the Astra does not turn on well.

The Astra four-speed automatic is equipped with a winter mode, but if you don’t use it for a long time, one day the activation button may simply not work. Jerks when switching from first to second on this box are considered the norm, but jerks when switching from second to third indicate a malfunction. In some cases, repair will require replacing the valve body. To the body automatic box Astra gears have a built-in gearbox cooling radiator, it happens that the coolant flows and mixes with oil, which also does not increase the life of the unit.

A robotic gearbox with a run of 100,000 km will ask for a replacement fork. Usually, the Easy Tronic robot lasts more than 100,000 km before overhaul, so as not to shorten the service life robotic gearbox during a short stop, you should include a neutral gear.

Astra's suspension is quite hardy. According to the owners, she is harsh. Most often, stabilizer struts and tie rods are changed in the Opel chassis, this operation is carried out with a run of 50,000 km.

Price

You can buy Opel Astra H 2004 - 2010 in almost any city in the CIS. Opel price Astra H 2007 $11,000 - $12,000. Astra is a good option for a person living in the city, in moderation fast car with a non-gluttonous engine and a spacious interior, besides, Astra has a good level of safety.

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