Home / Common Problems / Vauxhall Vivaro

Vauxhall Vivaro Problems & Known Issues

The most common Vauxhall Vivaro problems ranked by severity — what to watch for, what it costs to fix, and what happens if you ignore it.

Generations

A — First Generation
2001–2014
1.9 dCi, 2.0 dCi, 2.0 dCi, 2.5 dCi
B — Second Generation
2014–2021
1.6 dCi, 2.0 dCi

Top issues to watch for

The most serious Vauxhall Vivaro problems ranked by severity. We track 10 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.

Dangerous
Steering ball joint failure (A/B)
A, BF9Q, G9U, R9M2001–20210k–200k miles
The Vivaro suffers from premature steering ball joint wear across both generations, with MOT data showing failure rates up to 214.6 times the national fleet average. The ball joints connect the steering rack to the front wheels and their failure represents a direct safety hazard. Commercial loading and frequent low-speed manoeuvring accelerate wear beyond passenger car rates. The issue affects all engine variants and appears from very low mileages, suggesting a design weakness rather than normal wear.
What happens if ignoredBall joint failure causes complete loss of steering control on the affected side. The vehicle will become uncontrollable and present an immediate danger to occupants and other road users. Replacement typically requires both sides simultaneously due to symmetric wear patterns. Do not drive if ball joint wear is suspected.
Independent garage
£200–£350
Specialist
£250–£400
Main dealer
£350–£550
Parts only
£80–£150
Major
Suspension component wear (A/B)
A, BF9Q, G9U, R9M2001–202120k–200k miles
MOT data shows suspension pin, bush, and joint failures at up to 206.8 times the fleet average, affecting both front and rear suspension components. Commercial loading and frequent weight changes stress suspension bushes beyond their design limits. Anti-roll bar drop links, control arm bushes, and rear beam bushes are particularly prone to premature failure. The pattern is consistent across both generations, suggesting the suspension design is inadequate for typical commercial use patterns.
What happens if ignoredWorn suspension components affect handling, braking stability, and tyre wear. Multiple component failures can make the vehicle unstable under braking or cornering. Replacement typically involves multiple components simultaneously due to age-related deterioration. The vehicle remains safe to drive with minor bush wear but requires prompt attention for safety-critical components.
Independent garage
£150–£300
Specialist
£180–£350
Main dealer
£250–£500
Parts only
£60–£150
Major
Injector failure (A/B)
A, BF9Q, G9U, R9M2001–202160k–200k miles
Diesel injector failure is a widespread issue across all Vivaro generations and engine variants. The high-pressure common rail system operates at extreme pressures that stress injector seals and spray patterns. Poor fuel quality, extended service intervals, and contaminated fuel systems accelerate injector degradation. Symptoms typically begin with rough running and progress to complete injector seizure requiring specialist removal equipment.
What happens if ignoredFailed injectors cause poor fuel economy, loss of power, and potential engine damage from incorrect combustion. Diesel contamination of the engine oil requires immediate oil change to prevent bearing damage. Complete injector failure can score cylinder bores requiring engine rebuild. Replacement costs vary significantly depending on whether injectors can be refurbished or require complete replacement.
Independent garage
£300–£600
Specialist
£400–£800
Main dealer
£600–£1,200
Parts only
£150–£400
Major
Turbo failure (A)
AF9Q, G9U2001–201480k–200k miles
Generation A Vivaros suffer from turbocharger bearing and actuator failures, particularly on F9Q and G9U engines. Extended oil change intervals and poor oil quality cause bearing wear, while carbon build-up affects the variable geometry mechanism. Commercial use patterns with frequent cold starts and extended idle periods accelerate wear beyond passenger car rates. Generation B uses different turbo technology with improved reliability.
What happens if ignoredComplete turbo failure causes severe loss of power and potentially catastrophic engine damage from oil starvation or debris ingestion. Failed turbos can contaminate the intercooler system requiring additional cleaning. Replacement requires oil and filter change, intercooler cleaning, and boost system pressure testing. The vehicle can be driven carefully with turbo failure but performance will be severely compromised.
Independent garage
£600–£1,200
Specialist
£800–£1,500
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,000
Parts only
£400–£800

6 more known issues tracked

Including further major faults, wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.

Check a specific car →

MOT failure hotspots

Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Vauxhall Vivaro fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.

Indicator or hazard warning switch does not ope...
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 111x the fleet average
Sample: 5,184 tests
Indicator or hazard warning switch inoperative
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 103x the fleet average
Sample: 6,898 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 93x the fleet average
Sample: 1,108 tests
Tyre load capacity load capacity insufficient f...
Tyres · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 64x the fleet average
Sample: 56,358 tests
Suspension pin, bush, joint or bearing worn
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 56x the fleet average
Sample: 7,177 tests
Axle or kingpin wear
Suspension · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 56x the fleet average
Sample: 18,429 tests

Buying a Vauxhall Vivaro?

Check a specific car's service history to see if it's been looked after — franchised dealer records with dates, mileage, and work done.

Check service history

£6.99 · Full refund if no records found

Related

Vauxhall Vivaro reliability FAQs

What are the most common problems with the Vauxhall Vivaro?

The Vauxhall Vivaro has 10 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Steering ball joint failure (A/B).

Is the Vauxhall Vivaro reliable?

The Vauxhall Vivaro has 1 dangerous and 7 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.

How much does it cost to fix Vauxhall Vivaro problems?

Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Steering ball joint failure (A/B)) costs £200–£350 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.

Which Vauxhall Vivaro generation is most reliable?

The A (2001–2014) has the fewest dangerous issues (1). However, condition and service history matter more than generation — a well-maintained earlier car can be more reliable than a neglected newer one.