2017-2024 · 1.2 Turbo PureTech EB2DTS 3-cylinder petrol (130 hp)
Popular compact SUV built on PSA platform, sharing mechanics with Peugeot 3008 and Citroën C5 Aircross. Spacious family car with decent equipment levels and competitive pricing. The 1.2 PureTech engine is efficient but has a critical design flaw: oil-bathed timing belt that can disintegrate prematurely, causing catastrophic engine damage. Early models (2017-2020) most affected. Turbo actuator sticking is common on gently-driven cars. Start-stop system frequently fails due to battery issues. Stellantis extended warranty to 10 years/180,000 km for timing belt concerns - verify coverage before purchase.
Oil-bathed rubber belt degrades from fuel contamination, debris clogs oil system · more· less
The 1.2 PureTech uses a rubber timing belt running inside the engine, lubricated by oil - a cost-saving design that has proven catastrophic. Unburnt fuel from short trips and cold starts contaminates the oil, creating an abrasive mixture that degrades the belt prematurely. As the belt deteriorates, rubber particles contaminate the oil system, clogging the oil pump strainer, vacuum pump, and variable valve timing solenoids. This starves the engine of lubrication, leading to complete engine failure. Many failures occur well before the 100,000 km service interval - some as early as 60,000 km. Early 2017-2020 models most affected. Belt replacement costs €600-800 parts and labor, but if belt has already disintegrated, expect €3,000-6,500 for engine rebuild/replacement. Stellantis issued recalls and extended warranty to 10 years/180,000 km - verify coverage before buying. Post-2023 models switched to timing chain (much more reliable).
Turbo actuator sticking/failure€500 - €2,500
Actuator seizes from carbon buildup on gently-driven cars, causes limp mode · more· less
The turbocharger wastegate actuator tends to stick if the car is driven too gently or only for short trips, as carbon builds up in the mechanism. Symptoms include EPC warning light, engine entering limp mode (reduced power), and hissing sounds. Typically occurs between 60,000-100,000 km. The manufacturer does not sell the actuator separately - they only offer a complete turbo assembly. Specialist garages can replace just the actuator for €500-600, but if turbo internals are damaged from prolonged limp-mode driving, full turbocharger replacement runs €1,200-2,500. Prevention: use premium fuel, avoid constant gentle driving, and give the engine regular spirited runs on motorways to burn off carbon deposits.
Start-stop system failure€150 - €400
Battery loses charge capacity, system deactivates permanently after 5,000-15,000 km · more· less
One of the most frequently reported Grandland X faults. The start-stop system requires battery charge above 75-78% to function. If battery drops below this threshold, the system permanently deactivates and flashes the dashboard indicator. Common causes: battery degradation from short trips, incorrect battery specification (needs 760 CCA minimum, not 720), or defective Battery Management Module (BPGA). Dealers often try to "electrically condition" (discharge/recharge) the battery, but this rarely provides a permanent fix. Proper solution is EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) replacement at €200-300, or BPGA module replacement at €150-200 plus 40 minutes labor if module is faulty. Most batteries fail under warranty within 3 years.
High pressure fuel pump failure€700 - €1,800
First-wave issue at 15,000-30,000 km, causes irregular idle and limp mode · more· less
The 1.2 PureTech has two critical failure phases. The first wave at 15,000-30,000 km mainly affects the high-pressure fuel pump. Symptoms include irregular idling, loss of power, fuel pressure warning codes, and limp mode activation. Early pumps had a design flaw - updated part number is 9819061280 (old part ends in 4880). Aftermarket/remanufactured pump costs €400-600, genuine PSA pump exceeds €800. Labor is significant (3-5 hours) due to top-end engine access required, adding €250-600 depending on garage rates. Total repair: €700-1,800. This issue predominantly affects 2017-2019 models. If buying used, verify pump has been updated or ensure Stellantis warranty coverage applies.
Infotainment system freezing€0 - €1,200
Intellilink screen goes black every 4-5 days, affects reversing camera · more· less
Very common issue on 2017-2020 models. The infotainment screen intermittently goes black or freezes, making reversing camera unusable. Screen still responds to audio controls via steering wheel buttons even when black. Temporary fix: hold phone button for 5-10 seconds to force reboot. First solution: check for software updates via USB stick (free). Second option: full system reset via dealer (€50-100 diagnostic fee). If neither works, the entire head unit may need replacement at €800-1,200. Some owners report the issue never fully resolves and just becomes an accepted quirk. Warranty typically covers this within first 3 years. Post-2021 models have improved software stability.
Oil consumption€0 - €1,500
Engine consumes 0.5-1.0L per 10,000-15,000 km, worsens in winter · more· less
Many PureTech 1.2 owners report oil consumption between 60,000-120,000 km. PSA considers up to 1 liter per 5,000 km "normal" (which most mechanics find excessive). Typical consumption is 0.5-1.0L per 10,000-15,000 km. Interestingly, consumption often occurs primarily in winter months, not summer. Root causes: piston ring wear, PCV valve failure, or fuel dilution from short trips. Check oil level every 2,000 km. If caught early, PCV valve replacement (€150-300) may solve it. Advanced cases require piston ring service (€500 procedure, not warranty covered) or, in severe cases, engine rebuild. Maintaining strict 10,000 km oil change intervals with PSA B71 2312 certified oil helps minimize this issue.
Electric fuel filler cap malfunction€15 - €80
Cap won't tighten or keeps spinning, particularly 2017-2019 models · more· less
Common issue appearing at 10,000-25,000 km on 2017-2019 models. The fuel cap either won't tighten (keeps spinning) or loosens immediately after tightening, causing a rattle and potentially triggering fuel system leak codes. Vauxhall changed cap design on newer models. Sometimes the issue is just dirt/debris in the capless filler assembly - cleaning the gates and seals can resolve it (free DIY fix). If cap itself is faulty, replacement costs €15-30 for standard cap, or up to €80-100 for locking versions. In rare severe cases where the filler neck assembly is damaged, replacement can cost €700-800. Most cases are resolved with simple cap replacement under warranty.
Electrical gremlins (BPGA module)€150 - €300
Random faults: mirrors won't deploy, door locks malfunction, warning lights · more· less
Owners of 2018-2020 models report bizarre intermittent electrical issues: wing mirrors not deploying when unlocking, driver's door staying locked when others unlock, random fog light/dipped beam errors, "electrical circuit system fault" warning with battery symbol, and the car randomly unlocking itself at night. Root cause is usually the Battery Power Gateway Module (BPGA) - a common fault shared with Peugeot 5008, Citroën C4, and C5 Aircross. The BPGA controls power distribution and can cause cascading faults when it malfunctions. Module costs €140-150 from Vauxhall, plus 40 minutes labor (€50-80). Total repair: €200-250. Most covered under warranty if within 3 years. Issue is frustrating but not safety-critical - garages struggle to diagnose because faults are intermittent.
Suspension noise (bushings/links)€200 - €600
Clunking from front suspension over bumps, worn stabilizer links/bushings · more· less
Moderate likelihood, especially for cars driven on rough roads or with higher mileage (60,000+ km). The Grandland X has relatively soft suspension that allows significant body movement on undulating roads. Over time, this accelerates wear on front stabilizer links and control arm bushings. Symptoms: clunking or rattling noises from front end over bumps, particularly on uneven surfaces. Stabilizer link replacement costs €100-200 per side (parts + labor). Control arm bushings are more expensive at €300-400 per side. If both sides and multiple components need replacement, total can reach €600. Not a safety-critical issue initially, but should be addressed before MOT/APK inspection as worn bushings affect handling and can cause MOT failure.
Higher risk due to wet timing belt - avoid early models without warranty
The Grandland X 1.2 Turbo shares the problematic PSA PureTech engine with known wet timing belt failures. Early models (2017-2020) are highest risk. Stellantis extended warranty coverage to 10 years/180,000 km for timing belt issues, but only if strict service history is maintained with correct oil. Budget €400-700/year for potential repairs even with careful maintenance. Post-2023 models with timing chain are significantly more reliable. If buying pre-2023, only consider with full Stellantis warranty coverage and complete service history.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete service records absolutely essential. Verify oil changes every 10,000 km maximum (not 15,000 km) with PSA B71 2312 certified oil. Missing service stamps will void Stellantis timing belt warranty.
Tires
Check tread depth (minimum 3mm), age (date codes on sidewall), and uneven wear patterns. Standard sizes: 215/65R17 or 225/55R18.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for unusual rattles, timing issues, or turbo noises.
Body condition
Check for rust, accident damage, paint mismatch. Inspect wheel arches and underside.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds and conditions. Test infotainment, start-stop, all electrical functions.
Specific for this vehicle
Check engine oil level and condition
With engine cold, check dipstick. Oil should be clean, not milky/brown. Check for fuel smell in oil (indicates dilution). Low oil level suggests consumption issues.
Verify Stellantis timing belt warranty coverage
Contact Opel dealer with VIN to confirm extended 10 year/180,000 km warranty applies. Essential for pre-2023 models. Requires proof of all oil changes with correct specification.
Test start-stop system functionality
After driving 10+ minutes, come to complete stop with brake pedal pressed. Engine should cut off. If system doesn't work or dashboard light flashes, battery needs replacement.
Listen for turbo actuator issues
During test drive, accelerate moderately 2-3 times. Any hesitation, limp mode, or EPC warning indicates actuator problems. Listen for hissing sounds under acceleration.
Check for timing belt replacement evidence
If car has 60,000+ km, ask if timing belt has been replaced early (precautionary). Replacement receipt should show date and mileage. Belt should be replaced every 60,000 km despite 100,000 km official interval.
Inspect oil filler cap and dipstick for debris
Remove oil filler cap and check for rubber particles, sludge, or black debris - signs of timing belt degradation. This is critical - any visible debris means belt has started disintegrating.
Test infotainment system thoroughly
Operate screen for 10+ minutes. Test reversing camera, navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Ask seller if screen ever goes black (common issue).
Verify fuel filler cap operates correctly
Open and close fuel filler flap multiple times. Cap should tighten securely without excessive spinning. Listen for rattling when driving if cap is loose.
Check for electrical fault codes
Request dealer/mechanic scan for stored fault codes. Common codes: P0011 (timing), P0234 (turbo), P0087 (fuel pressure), U0100/U0101 (communication faults from BPGA).
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Wet timing belt premature wear (2017-2021)Warranty extended to 10 years
Contact an Opel dealer with VIN to verify all recalls completed. The timing belt warranty extension is crucial - ensure your specific vehicle is covered and service requirements are understood. The Grandland was Opel's most recalled model in 2023 with seven separate campaigns.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years/60,000 miles)Expired on most models
PureTech timing belt extended warranty10 years/180,000 km (conditions apply)
Opel extended warranty (12 months)Cars under 8 years/80,000 miles only
Third-party warranty (MotorEasy Plan A)Recommended by owners
The Stellantis extended warranty for PureTech timing belt covers 100% of costs (parts and labor) but ONLY if service history is complete with correct oil specification (PSA B71 2312) and maximum 10,000-15,000 km intervals. Missing even one oil change stamp can void coverage. Opel dealer extended warranty costs approximately €600/year. Third-party providers like MotorEasy are popular alternatives, typically offering better value and coverage.
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.