The 1.7 diesel engine in the Vauxhall Astra is a legendary machine that changed several generations and still was a good choice up until the 2014 model year. In 2015, Vauxhall changed its range of engines due to emission control requirements and we can’t get this wonderful engine new now. But what do you know about the older generation of the 1.7 diesel?
In this article, I will tell you about the 1.7 diesel engine in the Vauxhall Astra and Opel Astra that was sold in Europe. I will cover several generations and series of this engine, tell you about the common problems and expected longevity, and also cover the driving tips that will help you prolong the life of this machine.
Here’s what exactly I will tell you about:
- Key facts about the 1.7 diesel engine in the Vauxhall Astra.
- How many miles will this engine last?
- What are the common problems to expect with this engine?
- Can you prolong the life of the 1.7 diesel?
What should you know about the 1.7 diesel in the Vauxhall Astra?
This diesel engine is called Circle L engine and it was used in the Vauxhall Astra H and Vauxhall Astra J generations (Opel Astra H and Opel Astra J in Europe). There were a whole bunch of versions with different types of injection and several important technical differences. But overall, all these 1.7 diesel engines were very durable, extremely economical, and had just some minor problems.
When it comes to driving, you won’t have a lot of fun – this is just a practical diesel engine that vibrates pretty much and makes a lot of sounds that you won’t like. But this is the proper pay for the technical advantages you get from these machines. Of course, all the advantages very much depend on the age and mileage of the engine.
Let’s look at its main features:
- this is the 1.7-liter 4-cylinder with a durable cast-iron block and aluminum head;
- the engine is turbocharged, and there are different types of turbo units used in the machine;
- it can offer 75 to 130 horsepower and up to 300 Nm of torque – the torque is one of the greatest advantages;
- the engine was equipped with different transmissions, including wonderful manual options, DCT units, and simple automatic gearboxes;
- all 1.7 diesel engines have timing belts that should be changed on time to avoid serious problems;
- the most common injection type is Common Rail, but earlier versions had the direct injection with expensive and unreliable injectors;
- the fuel economy is an important advantage – the Astra can show about 6L/100km in the city and 4.2 L/100km on highways.
This is a very economical engine that doesn’t give a lot of power. But its low-end torque is perfect and this allows you to drive the Astra with even some fun. On highways, the engine is pretty silent and doesn’t vibrate. This is especially perfectly done in the Vauxhall Astra J generation with better engine mounts and some changes in the machines.
Also, the engines are pretty simple in terms of their construction. You can go to any good garage in the UK or Europe and they will repair this powerplant without many problems. Millions of these engines were sold in Europe in Opel, Vauxhall, Chevrolet, and also Honda Civic models. Even now, when these units are not offered new anymore, there is no problem with getting good parts.
How long will this diesel engine last?
In terms of durability, the Astra 1.7L diesel engine is perfect. On average, it can last up to 250,000-300,000 miles (380,000-450,000 km). This is amazing, especially if you compare this lifespan to the durability of any modern engine with the same power output.
If you want durability, you shouldn’t get the Astra with the automated manual transmission or DCT. This one will require serious and expensive repairs and even replacement much earlier than the engine dies.
Also, the diesel engine may die earlier than you expect if it’s not maintained well. The driving style is important – make sure you don’t go racing in the Vauxhall because it’s made for calm everyday use, family driving, and business trips, but not for crazy acceleration or street racing.
What are the common problems with this engine?
Although the Vauxhall Astra 1.7 diesel is a pretty reliable machine, I still know about several common problems that should be remembered by all owners. If you own the Astra powered by this engine, it’s important to try and prevent the following issues from happening.
Here are the common problems with this diesel powerplant:
1. It’s extremely sensitive to the coolant quality
The cooling system in this engine is very sensitive and can get corroded and then leak heavily if you use bad antifreeze. One of the known problems is that expensive fuel injectors are affected by the bad coolant and start leaking.
The heat exchanger is another unit that suffers from coolant quality. Its gasket may lose its initial shape and the heat exchanger will start leaking. This will lead to serious issues if neglected. Lots of 1.7 diesel engines were dead because of overheating when the coolant level was too low.
2. Turbocharger problems
Given the lifespan of the engine is pretty great, the turbocharger will have to be repaired or replaced at least once (most likely twice) within the life of the machine. The turbo is not that durable and may require overhauling at 150,000 km or maximum at 200,000 km.
This may cause problems because the turbocharger is pretty expensive and repairing it may be impossible after serious wear and tear. So, in any case, this is going to be an expensive repair.
3. The timing belt has an overestimated interval
Vauxhall says that timing belts in these engines should last up to 150,000 km (about 90,000 miles) and then be replaced. But the problem is that many 1.7 diesel engines have a much shorter life of the belt. When it breaks or stretches fatally and jumps, the pistons will hit the valves in the engine and this will most likely lead to very serious problems.
4. DPF and EGR systems
At about 200,000 km, the problems with ecology equipment will start happening one after another. The EGR valve may be clogged and require cleaning. The DPF may get stuffed by soot and require cleaning or replacement. The EGR system itself is not very durable and may need a lot of attention on high-mileage engines.
Unfortunately, this will continue to bother you until the engine is dead. Also, any issues with the emission equipment are going to cost quite a lot of money to solve.
5. Common rail injection systems
All newer 1.7 diesel engines in the Vauxhall Astra were equipped with the Common Rail injection. It’s great in terms of economy but when it goes bad, you regret buying this car. Repairing the injection system in this engine or even diagnosing the fuel supply problems may cost you a fortune.
Common Rail in the 1.7L Vauxhall Astra engine is a very serious problem and the number of possible breakdowns is huge. That’s why I usually don’t recommend buying a used Vauxhall with this engine – it may cost you too much to own.
Can you prolong the life of the 1.7 diesel?
You know the common problems that can bother your engine. If you manage to prevent them from happening, you will be able to drive the car much longer and with fewer expenses. But I should also add several tips on driving style and maintenance.
So, here’s what you can do to drive your diesel-powered Astra longer:
- buy only high-quality antifreeze and change it every 3 years or 45,000 km (30K miles);
- if you see oil in the antifreeze, stop driving immediately and inspect the heat exchanger;
- don’t ignore problems with injection – the sooner you diagnose them, the less money you will spend;
- have the EGR and DPF cleaned professionally at least once every 100K kilometers;
- regular maintenance is important, buy proper oil and filters for this;
- don’t use your Astra for racing – this is a cool family car, but not a sports vehicle.
Also, before you start driving in the morning, give your Astra about a minute, or better two minutes to warm up at idle. This is an old engine and it won’t like the stress of cold driving. Even though ecology activists will hate me for this, I should tell you that to prolong the life of the engine.
To wrap up
This engine may seem quite old-fashioned. But even in the Astra J generation, it’s still pretty cool. It’s good to drive, very durable, absolutely economical, and not really problematic. If you maintain the engine well and also drive it sensibly, it won’t bother you with many serious problems.
Of course, the high-mileage 1.7 diesel engine in the Vauxhall Astra is not the icon of reliability, but it can still drive well without requiring a lot of money for repairs and service.
If you have something to add or want to ask a question, please write in the comments below!
