Opel Zafira A 1998 - 2005 - used, experience, problems

Opel Zafira A

The Opel Zafira was with Fiat Multiplom one of the first answers to Renault scenic, the forerunner of compact MPVs. Like the Multipla, they wanted to give more to its owner, and he was the first to inaugurate the concept of a compact 7-seat MPV, the last row of which was hidden in the boot floor. But even if he was proclaimed for his modularity and dynamic qualities, Zafira still suffered many failures, which distorted her image.

The Opel Zafira was first introduced in 1997 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Two years later, it began production in Germany and in the following years in Brazil and Thailand. In addition to its basic name, the car was also sold as Vauxhall Zafira (UK), Holden Zafira (Australia), Chevrolet Zafira (Brazil and Argentina) and Subaru Travik (Japan).

The Opel Zafira was built as a raised Astra II. Unfortunately, it is somewhat less protected against corrosion. Corrosion mainly occurs on the body elements, the edges of the fenders (especially at the rear). Before buying, you should carefully check the functioning of all door handles - it happens that they open extremely difficult or do not work at all. A typical feature of the Opel Zafira is the matte headlights.

Seven MPV Zafira Seats Opel 1999 brings the sophisticated family car to market, which was the most popular MPV in Germany until its introduction VW Touran. 2003 saw a restailing on the Opel Zafira, changing the lights, grille and dashboard details. In 2005, a successor came to the market.

In 2000, the Opel Zafira OPC appeared, it had a sport suspension, it has a number of details in the interior and a large turbo gasoline engine with 194 or 200 hp. The Zafira OPC is the only model in its class, which can easily go from 200 km / h and from 0 km / h to 100 km / h it takes close to 8 seconds.

The advantage of the Opel Zafira is that the car is built on the components of the Opel Astra II, easier for spare parts and service.

COMFORT - Opel Zafira A

Opel Zafira A

German order, but extremely boring styling. All black is present, the quality of the cabin materials themselves is among the best in the class. The board is made of soft plastic. The furniture is durable and extremely carefully paired. But the benefits of the Opel Zafira include a large passenger compartment and good visibility.

Opel Zafira most commonly used the components available in its current product design. The chassis comes from the Astra II, like most engines. Extended wheelbase (2694 mm) was a sufficient basis for a generous interior layout, chassis adjustment was carried out in collaboration with Porsche developers. Compared to the French competition, it has a significantly stronger chassis.

The Opel Zafire dashboard is modern and efficient in design, successfully meets the driver's requirements for the steering wheel, and the Opel radio display is integrated into the information system display. German rigid seats fulfill their mission in excellent quality, especially on the western highways, combined with a solid chassis. The climate of the Opel Zafiri is particularly useful because of the large glass space that is heated in the summer.

What distinguishes the Opel Zafira from the competition is the Flek7 system, seven seats 2 + 3 +2. The first pair - driver and passenger - provides complete comfort for both short and tall people. The second row is a bit disappointing, comfortable, but instead of three independent seats (this solution works perfectly in the Scenic), the passengers shared a bench. The last two places are hidden in the trunk floor, they are made very precisely, although they have a much thinner design than the standard ones, they are acceptable for shorter trips.

The Opel Zafira's small boot, with a capacity of only 150 liters or seven seats, grows to 600 liters when the third row of seats folds. When the second row of seats folds away, the luggage compartment grows to 1700 liters.

Opel Zafira - Safety: driver and front passenger airbags, ABS, belt tensioners and servo are standard on all models. Depending on the engine or equipment, the Opel Zafira is also equipped with side airbags and electronic stability control. In the 2001 Euro NCAP crash test, the Opel Zafira received three out of five stars.

ENGINE - Opel Zafira A

Opel Zafira A

Engine table - wikipedia

The basic model is the Opel Zafira 1.6 petrol engine, which has come in several power versions, depending on the market from 95 to 101 hp. In 2001, it underwent minor modifications and was incorporated EGR valve and another lambda probe, to be adjusted to Euro III exhaust emission standards. At the same time, the factory version of CNG gas (97 hp) was also adjusted. An alternative and the most popular petrol engine is the Opel Zafira 1.8, which does not deviate from the Opel Zafira 1.6 in terms of design. Both engines suffer from similar malfunction problems - electronics injection control and slightly higher engine oil consumption. On the other hand - not to over-appeal. With proper maintenance and service it doesn't cause too many problems. Too bad they’re not too economical.

Of the Petrols, the best variant is the Opel Zafira 1.8, which offers the perfect compromise between good dynamics and low consumption. But keep in mind that gasoline can always be disappointed with cables and bobbins, as well as an alternator. Also, you need to check the engine oil level regularly, as gasoline engines fitted in the Opel Zafir A consume a little more oil than you should.

The Opel Zafira 2,0 turbo version comes in two versions: 194 hp or 200 hp. This engine can also be easily recommended, provided, of course, it has a documented service history.

The 2.2 gasoline is the most balanced engine. It is also very reliable.

Due to the family and tourist character of the Opel Zafira, most customers are looking for diesel versions. The choice has three options, an engine with a capacity of two liters in two versions - 82 hp and 101 hp, as well 2.2 125 hp DTI.

In theory, the Zafira diesel looks more durable and refined. Because of the use of the chain, they are considered to be more economical (especially the 2.0 DTI, which consumes 6-8 l / 100 km).

Occasionally there are problems with the injection pump. After 150 km, the costs with a turbocharger and floating flywheel are to be reckoned with. Common to all modern diesel engines.
After all, it should not discourage anyone from buying a diesel version (the 2.0 DTI 101hp version is especially recommended). The foregoing remarks are directed solely as a warning. There is no need to complain about the basic diagnosis before buying a turbo diesel.

Opel Zafira 2.0 DCI have problems with damage to the injection pumps, with a powerful engine 2.2 DTI Turbocharger is often a problem. The 2.0 DI engine, in turn, is far too weak for a car of this size and also suffers from injection problems.

The recommended petrol engine is a 1,8-liter petrol engine with 125 hp, with a consumption of 8,5 to 9,0 liters. More economical is the 2,2-liter DTi diesel, also with 125 hp, which is satisfied with around 7,5 to 8,0 liters.

All Opel Zafira models, including the Opel Zafira OPC version, have front-wheel drive. Choose from 4-speed automatic transmission or 5-speed manual.

Opel Zafira - Model History:
autumn 1997 - presentation of the prototype at the Frankfurt am Main Motor Show.
1999 Premiere production version of the Opel Zafira. Engines 1.6 16V (101 hp), 1.8 16V (116 hp), 2.0 16V DTI (direct injection, 82 hp).
2000. Turbo Diesel 2.0 DTI. Higher power output 1,8 16V (125 HP).
2001. Sport OPC 2.0 16V (192 HP). Engine 2.2 16V (147 HP). Higher engine power 2.0 16V DTI (101 HP).
2002. Turbo diesel 2.2 DTI.
2003 Restailing Opel Zafira (cosmetic interior changes, new taillights, chrome grille). New 2.2 16V DTI engine (direct injection, 125 hp). Version 2.0 16V OPC in two power versions (192 or 200 hp).
2005. The second-generation Opel Zafira.

FAULTS - Opel Zafira A

The ratings of Zafira's failures are quite variable. It is probably due to the fact that there are very durable specimens and those that deteriorate due to numerous model failures. But the fact is that they are usually small failures and easy to meet. The most common problems relate to the front trap and control system.

The biggest problem with the Opel Zafira is a faulty power steering power steering pump, an error is detected by a noticeable loss of support during steering. Are also bad joints half shafts, which is recommended to check before buying Zafira. Many Zafirs have corrosion on the rear fenders and lower neck. Rust attacks the exhaust very quickly. Zafir users complain about brake calipers. Trap is a common problem with wheel bearings and stabilizers. Also perishable are relays, thermostats, flow meters and fan motor. In addition, it can disappoint the ABS sensor and oil level.

For 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 gasoline engines, pay attention to the regular change of the timing belt and the pulley, as it turns out, because of their poor quality and greater safety, the replacement intervals are further reduced. When replacing the timing belt at the same time, it is also recommended to change the water pumps as it may also cause problems with the timing belt. The screw of the spanner passing through the oil pump is also prone to breakage, leaving the belt tight and prone to fall.
Diesel engines are less problematic in this regard because they drive the chain.

In a small number of 1,6 and 1,8 petrol engines, there are problems with the oil pump. In the event of a failure, the engine is left without sufficient lubrication and engine failure occurs.

The first 2.2 petrol engines have problems with poor lubrication of the chain. In March 2002, they updated the engines, replacing the lubrication system elements. A possible problem is the result of dirty oil, due to the extended oil change interval.

Failure of the water pump about 90000 km, a blocked pump can cause the toothed belt to break and severe engine damage.

The 2,2 ignition control unit is prone to overheating.

DTI Engine Injection Problems. Common injection system fault, symptoms are startup problems, increased fuel consumption, increased oil level.

Chronic failure of MAF sensors (meter air flow) occurs in all diesel versions made by early 2003. The problem is labeled as uneven operation and loss of engine power.

Opel Zafira 2.0 DTI older than 2002 has experienced a number of high-pressure pump failures.

Common turbocharger failures at 2.2 dti diesel engines. The problem also occurs with 2.0 DTI engines, but less often. In case of failure of the turbocharger also pay attention to the intercooler.

Opel Zafira 2.0 DTI. The malfunctioning of the engine can be caused by Teflon erasers on the nozzle, together with overflow hoses (replaced every 150000 km), which is most often due to poor fuel or higher sulfur content.

Oil consumption. Vehicles older than 2002. The 2.0 DI and DTI engines consume a lot of oil (more than 1 liter per 1000 km). There are numerous instances of engine failure after a lack of lubrication. Consumption should be monitored closely.

In case the diesel engine is often used for city driving, it needs regular cleaning EGR valve, the failure is manifested by frequent exhaust fumes and malfunctioning of the engine. The recommendation is cleaning EGR valve and suction branches every 50000 km.

Air flow meter. A flowmeter malfunction causes significant power loss on all diesel models by early 2003. Replacement is necessary.

Management. Hose or power pump leaks are a common occurrence, 50 km away, followed by loss of steering assistance.

Fog lights. Until 2003 and before restyling, water penetration and fog condensation.

The occurrence of headlight moisture, generally applies to vehicles prior to restyling.

Oil vapors in the interior are often felt. The problem is due to poor fit of the gasket in the fuel filter. To solve this problem, you need to install a new seal and eliminate the problem.

The first Opel Zafires to face front panel display problems. Reprogramming usually solves the problem.

Common failures of electric fuel pump, starter and alternator.

Cooling fan or relay failures can be expensive because overheating the engine, at least once blown the cylinder head gasket, often pulls major engine failures behind.

By 2001, the life of the H7 headlight bulb was too short, the recall brought improvements.

On the first Zafira problems with the front armrest, which will not remain in the set position.

Brakes - Rear brakes can lock. The best way to check them is to lift the rear of the car with a crane, and then try to turn the wheels by hand. Any resistance will mean that the wheel is locking.

Zafira with built-in 4 brake discs can often hear noises in the rear brakes, which are often resolved by cleaning or restoring the brake pliers.

There may be problems with the ABS sensors.

Revocation - Opel Zafira A

Opel Zafira 1.8 16V at the end of 1999 called for service to replace the EGR valve, if necessary.
25.04.2000/XNUMX/XNUMX due to possible fuel leakage. (Diesel version)
14.12.2000/XNUMX/XNUMX due to possible fuel leakage on return.
February 2001 If the lath housing number is part of a bad series, it is replaced.
March 2001 Opel Zafira 2.0 DTI model year 2000 due to lack of turbine hose clamp. The clamps are tightened or replaced.
December 2002 Models manufactured between September 2001 and September 2002 were called for vibration repairs, especially on reverse. The brake pads are stuck on the discs.
Spring 2002 The front brake calipers are inconsistent with specifications, referring to specimens between summer 1999 and spring 2001.

Opel Zafira A

CONCLUSION

The Opel Zafira is a spacious family sedan at an affordable price. Its main advantage is the high availability of cheap spare. The Opel Zafira is equipped with a Flek7 system hidden in the boot floor with two additional seats. For those who use the family car every day but occasionally like to push gas to the floor and drive a little faster Opel has prepared an OPC version, fun to drive.

If someone really needs an extremely practical car that changes from a seven-seat bus to a small van to carry things, depending on the needs, the Opel Zafira is perfect.

Opel Zafira price - used preview

Mladen

Hi there, I am Mladen and I am an auto enthusiast. I started this blog years ago to help like minded people share information about latest cars, car servicing ideas, used car info, exotic cars, and auto technology. You will find helpful articles and videos on a wide variety of cars - Audi, Mercedes, Toyota, Porsche, Volvo, BMW and much more. Ping us if you have anything cool to share on latest cars or on how to make older cars more efficient, or just want to say hi!