2014-2019 · 1.4 petrol (90 hp, naturally aspirated)
Popular German city car known for low running costs and widespread parts availability. The naturally aspirated 1.4 engine (D 14 XEL) is more reliable than the 1.0 turbo variant. Main concerns are timing chain tensioner wear causing cold start rattle (typically 60,000-100,000 km), coil pack failures from heat exposure, and ECU issues with AC Delco E78 units. Manual gearbox models are significantly more dependable than Easytronic versions. Intellilink R3.0 systems on early 2015-2016 cars cause battery drain - dealer software update available. Suitable for first-time buyers and city commuters, though check service history carefully as many are driven by inexperienced drivers.
The timing chain tensioner has a release valve that weakens over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed off overnight. This results in a distinctive rattle for 1-30 seconds on cold start, typically appearing between 60,000-100,000 km. If rattle persists beyond a few seconds, the chain, guides, tensioner, and sprockets all need replacing. Chain failure can cause catastrophic valve/piston contact. Average repair cost is €688 according to FixMyCar data, with dealer quotes reaching €1,200-1,400. Independent garages charge €700-900. VW Group has updated the tensioner part. Regular oil changes with quality oil significantly extend timing chain life.
Ignition coil pack failure€200 - €350
Heat-degraded coil pack causes misfires, rough running, and check engine light · more· less
Coil pack failure is extremely common on the 1.4 petrol Corsa E due to heat from the engine making the plastic brittle and causing internal breakdown. Connector issues are also well-known (replacement connectors widely available on eBay). Symptoms include misfires, rough running, difficulty starting, and P0300 error codes. Typically occurs around 40,000-60,000 km but some fail earlier. Dealer cost: €320-350 (€183 coil + €24 spark plugs + labor). Independent garage: €250. DIY with aftermarket parts: €90-120 (coil pack €60-90, spark plugs €30). Replacing spark plugs every 60,000 km (manufacturer interval) helps extend coil pack life.
Engine ECU failure (AC Delco E78)€400 - €800
Manufacturing defect causes loss of main relay signal, preventing engine start · more· less
The AC Delco E78 ECU (found in some 1.4L petrol models with engine code B14XEJ, primarily 2014-2016) suffers from a known manufacturing defect causing loss of the main relay activation signal. This results in no-start conditions or engine starting but not firing. Problems are often intermittent initially but become permanent if untreated. Can also cause loss of power, cutting out, and limp mode. Brand-new ECU from manufacturer: €400-800 plus coding and labor. Specialist ECU repair services offer repairs with lifetime warranty for less, retaining original programming (no recoding needed). More common in early Corsa E production.
Clutch pedal return spring failure€20 - €1,300
Spring breaks causing clutch pedal to drop to floor, difficult gear selection · more· less
A common design fault where the return spring high up in the pedal box breaks (approximately €2 part cost). When this fails, the clutch pedal drops to the floor or doesn't return properly, making gear selection difficult or impossible. Vauxhall dealers charge around €1,300 to replace the entire pedal box (requires removing dashboard, steering column). However, a DIY fix using a €19 replacement spring from eBay is available, though installation is challenging. This issue is particularly common on Corsas driven by inexperienced drivers who ride the clutch. Check when test driving - pedal should return smoothly and consistently.
Intellilink battery drain (R3.0)€0 - €120
Infotainment system stays on overnight draining battery on 2015-early 2016 models · more· less
Intellilink R3.0 software (on 2015-early 2016 Corsas without rotary volume knob) has a known bug causing the system to stay on all night and drain the battery. Symptoms include flat battery after overnight parking, plus other glitches like refusing to power on, only working for 5 seconds, incorrect brightness settings. Free software update to version 109 from Opel dealer fixes this issue (some dealers charge €120 diagnostic fee). Late 2016+ models have R4.0 Intellilink (with rotary volume knob) which doesn't have this problem. Temporary fix: factory reset by disconnecting battery for a few hours.
Lambda sensor (oxygen sensor) failure€200 - €400
Sensor fails after 60,000-90,000 km causing poor fuel economy and emissions · more· less
Lambda sensors on petrol Corsa E engines commonly fail after 60,000-90,000 km. Symptoms include check engine light, rough idling, poor engine performance, and up to 15% increase in fuel consumption. Failure can damage the catalytic converter and cause MOT failure. Parts cost: €29-100 depending on brand (budget NTY €29, Bosch €49, HELLA €44). Total replacement cost with labor: €200-400. The Corsa E uses heated oxygen sensors which have longer life than unheated types. Regular replacement every 80,000-90,000 km as preventive maintenance is recommended.
Water pump failure€300 - €650
Water pump leaks or bearing fails, can cause engine overheating · more· less
Water pump failure signs include overheating, coolant leaks from pump area, white smoke, rough idle, and coolant warning light. Common causes: worn seal/gasket (from age or wrong coolant), contaminated cooling system. Fortunately, the Corsa E's water pump is driven by auxiliary belt (not timing belt), making it easier to access. Parts cost: €40-80 from motor factors or €78+VAT from Opel dealer. Labor: 1-4 hours depending on condition (average 1.75 hours). Total cost: €300-650. When replacing pump, also check timing belt cover gasket which commonly leaks. Using correct coolant specification prevents premature failure.
Affordable to maintain but some issues need monitoring
The Corsa E 1.4 is generally reliable for a budget small car, with widespread parts availability and many qualified mechanics. The timing chain and coil pack are the main concerns - listen carefully for cold start rattle and check for smooth running. Manual gearbox versions are much more reliable than Easytronic. Buy from owners with complete service history showing regular oil changes. The 21% fault rate from What Car? data places it near bottom of small car category, but many issues are affordable to fix at independent garages.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records essential, particularly oil changes. Verify timing chain maintenance on higher mileage cars.
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 1.6mm), age (date codes on sidewall), and uneven wear patterns indicating suspension issues.
Cold start test
Engine must be completely cold. Listen carefully for timing chain rattle in first 30 seconds after starting.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. Corsas are rarely crashed badly but check panel gaps.
Test drive (minimum 20 minutes)
Test at various speeds, check steering feel, brake response, and gearbox operation.
Specific for this vehicle
Listen for timing chain rattle on cold start
Most critical check. Start completely cold engine. Rattle lasting more than 2-3 seconds indicates worn tensioner/chain (€700-1,400 repair). This is a deal-breaker on high mileage cars without recent timing chain service.
Check for smooth engine running and misfire
Rough idling, hesitation, or engine warning light often indicates coil pack failure (€200-350). Test at idle and during acceleration. Any misfiring is expensive to diagnose at dealers.
Test clutch pedal operation (manual cars)
Pedal should return smoothly and consistently. Sticking, dropping to floor, or requiring excessive force indicates return spring or hydraulic issues. Check bite point hasn't changed - sign of worn clutch from inexperienced driver.
Verify all Intellilink functions work (2015-2016 cars)
On 2015-early 2016 models check if infotainment system powers on reliably, volume control works, Bluetooth connects. Ask owner if battery has gone flat overnight - indicates R3.0 software bug requiring dealer update.
Check service history shows regular oil changes
Oil change intervals of 15,000 km or 12 months maximum. Longer intervals cause timing chain and turbo problems. Look for genuine Opel/Vauxhall stamps or reputable independent garage records.
Verify recall work completed (VIN check)
Contact Opel dealer with VIN to confirm steering knuckle (June-July 2015), handbrake (Aug 2016-Jan 2017), and airbag (Aug-Dec 2016) recalls completed if applicable.
Check for Easytronic transmission if automatic
If car has Easytronic automated manual (not common), test for jerky shifts, hesitation, or 'F' error message. These transmissions are notoriously unreliable and expensive to repair. Strongly prefer manual gearbox.
Inspect brake caliper guide pins
Four-wheel disc brake models have issues with caliper guides seizing. Check for uneven brake pad wear, pulling to one side when braking, or sticky pedal feel.
Contact your local Opel/Vauxhall dealer with the vehicle VIN to verify all applicable recalls have been completed. The steering knuckle and steering rack recalls are particularly important for vehicle control. All recall work is performed free of charge even on older vehicles.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years / 60,000 miles)Expired on all 2014-2019 Corsa E
Opel FlexCare extended warrantyAvailable (3-5 years, 10,000-50,000 km/year)
Extended warranty available but read exclusions carefully
All 2014-2019 Corsa E models are outside their original factory warranty. Opel FlexCare extended warranty is available through authorized dealers with flexible duration (3-5 years) and mileage options (10,000-50,000 km/year). Covers repairs by authorized Opel repairers only. Does not cover normal wear items including tires, brake pads, or maintenance services. Maintaining proper service records is essential for warranty validity - keep Service and Warranty booklet stamped and signed.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.