Generations
X — First Generation
2017–2022
1.2 Turbo, 1.2 PureTech, 1.5 Diesel, 1.6 Diesel, 2.0 Diesel
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Vauxhall Grandland problems ranked by severity. We track 5 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Major
Fuel system leak or filler cap failure
The 1.2-litre petrol variants show an extremely high rate of fuel system leaks or ineffective filler cap seals. MOT data shows this model fails at 18.1 times the national fleet average for fuel system defects, with peak failures in the 20,000-40,000 mile range. This represents a significant design weakness affecting the fuel tank, filler neck, or cap mechanism. The issue appears most severe on the 1200cc PureTech engine variant.
What happens if ignoredFuel leaks create a fire hazard and will cause an immediate MOT failure. Vapour leaks waste fuel and may trigger the engine management light. A faulty filler cap can allow water into the fuel system causing starting problems and injector damage.
Independent garage
£50–£150
Specialist
£60–£180
Main dealer
£100–£250
Parts only
£20–£80
Major
Suspension bush and joint wear
MOT data shows this model fails at 30.0 times the fleet average for suspension pin, bush or joint wear, with the trend worsening over recent years. The failure affects all engine variants but is most severe on diesel models in the 20,000-40,000 mile range. This indicates substandard rubber compounds or inadequate bush sizing for the vehicle weight and suspension loads.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension bushes cause poor handling, uneven tyre wear, and noise. Severely worn components can affect braking stability and steering precision, creating a safety risk. Complete bush failure can cause suspension geometry changes leading to dangerous handling characteristics.
Independent garage
£200–£400
Specialist
£250–£500
Main dealer
£350–£700
Parts only
£50–£150
Major
Steering column bearing wear
The 1200cc petrol variants show steering column top bearing wear at 6.9 times the fleet average, with failures concentrated in the 20,000-40,000 mile range and a worsening trend. Excessive radial movement between the steering column and shaft indicates premature bearing failure, potentially affecting steering precision and safety.
What happens if ignoredWorn steering column bearings affect steering precision and can cause the steering wheel to transmit excessive vibration to the driver. In extreme cases, bearing failure could affect steering control, creating a safety hazard.
Independent garage
£200–£350
Specialist
£250–£400
Main dealer
£350–£550
Parts only
£50–£120
Major
Brake binding
MOT data shows brake binding at 40.8 times the fleet average, indicating significant brake effort recorded with no brake pedal applied. This affects both petrol and diesel variants with a worsening trend, suggesting caliper seizure or brake pad/disc issues causing the brakes to drag continuously.
What happens if ignoredBinding brakes cause increased fuel consumption, premature brake component wear, and potential brake fade or failure. Continued driving with binding brakes can overheat the brake system, warp discs, and create a dangerous loss of braking effectiveness.
Independent garage
£150–£300
Specialist
£180–£350
Main dealer
£250–£450
Parts only
£80–£200
1 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Vauxhall Grandland fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Fuel system leaking, or missing or ineffective ...
Bodywork · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 46x the fleet average
Sample: 49,342 tests
Front or rear fog lamp not securely attached
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 22x the fleet average
Sample: 16,437 tests
Lens defective which has no effect on emitted l...
Lights & Electrics · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 16x the fleet average
Sample: 16,622 tests
Anti-roll bar links worn
Suspension · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 13x the fleet average
Sample: 65,369 tests
Seat mounting fault
Seatbelts & Airbags · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 10x the fleet average
Sample: 31,604 tests
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 8.3x the fleet average
Sample: 5,446 tests
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Related
- Vauxhall Grandland buyer's guide
- Vauxhall Grandland service history check
- Vauxhall Grandland service schedule & costs
- Vauxhall Grandland MOT failure rates
- Vauxhall Grandland price guide
- How to check Vauxhall service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Vauxhall Grandland car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
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Vauxhall Grandland reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Vauxhall Grandland?
The Vauxhall Grandland has 5 known issues across 2 severity levels. The most common problems relate to Fuel system leak or filler cap failure and Suspension bush and joint wear.
Is the Vauxhall Grandland reliable?
The Vauxhall Grandland has 0 dangerous and 4 major known issues. No dangerous issues are tracked, which is a positive sign.
How much does it cost to fix Vauxhall Grandland problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Fuel system leak or filler cap failure) costs £50–£150 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.