Used Opel Vivaro

What to know before buying: Opel Vivaro

From 3 video reviews, 1 forum thread and 3 press tests · updated 23/09/2026

What the reviews say

• The first-generation Vivaro offered van, passenger, bus and platform-cab bodies, two wheelbases and two roof heights; the passenger version seated up to nine.[4]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• The first generation has a soft ride, good handling and unexpectedly decent sound insulation, although the 90 hp 2.0 version feels modest when loaded.[3]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• Second-generation strengths include a smooth ride, good noise insulation, a comfortable driving position and ample room for passengers in rows two and three.[5]one sourceVivaro B
• The second-generation cab is ergonomic, with widely adjustable seating and steering, 14 storage compartments and a tight turning circle in the standard-wheelbase version.[6]one sourceVivaro B

Typical faults

• Vivaro A injector copper seals can wear; signs include hard starting, rough idle, diesel odor and black deposits around the injectors.[7]one sourceVivaro A (X83)

  1.9 CDTI, 2.0 CDTI, 2.5 CDTI

• Vivaro A six-speed PK6/PF6 manual gearboxes can suffer premature main-shaft bearing wear, producing a hum in fifth or sixth gear.[7]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• On the 1.9 diesel, a frayed alternator and air-conditioning belt can wrap around the crank pulley, make the timing belt jump or break and severely damage the engine.[1]one sourceVivaro A (X83)

  1.9 diesel

• On the Vivaro A, sealant can separate in a hidden wheel-side cavity, trapping wet sand and leaves that promote corrosion; the hollow fuel-tank retaining strap also rusts.[2]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• Vivaro B 1.6 CDTI BiTurbo models can clog their EGR valve and cooler during short-trip use, causing hesitation, power loss, an engine warning and limp mode.[7]one sourceVivaro B

  1.6 CDTI BiTurbo

• The Vivaro B timing chain and tensioner can wear prematurely because of degraded oil or extended service intervals; cold-start rattling is the typical warning.[7]one sourceVivaro B

  1.6 CDTI

• Euro 6 Vivaro B models can develop AdBlue/SCR faults from failed NOx sensors, a blocked AdBlue injector or crystallization, triggering warnings, a no-start countdown and reduced power.[7]one sourceVivaro B

  Euro 6 diesel

Which engine and version to take

• For the Vivaro A, the 2.0 CDTI is the balanced choice: smoother and more flexible than the 1.9, but cheaper to maintain than the 2.5; 90 and 114–116 hp versions were offered.[3]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• The Vivaro A 1.9 diesel is economical and repair-friendly because its electromagnetic injectors can be rebuilt, but the auxiliary and timing belts demand close attention.[1][3]Vivaro A (X83)
• When Vivaro A performance matters, the 2.5 diesel is described as strong and long-lived, but its repairs, turbo and dual-mass flywheel can cost more than those of the 2.0.[1][3]Vivaro A (X83)

What to check at the inspection

• On a six-speed Vivaro A, test fifth and sixth at highway speed; humming can indicate PK6/PF6 main-shaft bearing wear.[7]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• With the engine cold, check starting, idle quality, diesel odor and tar-like black deposits around the injectors, all signs of leaking injector seals.[7]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• On the 1.9 diesel, inspect the alternator and air-conditioning belt closely; cracking or fraying needs urgent attention because it can damage the timing drive.[1]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• On a Vivaro A, inspect arch edges, reinforcements, the cavity behind the wheel trim and the fuel-tank retaining strap, where wet debris and corrosion can develop.[2]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• After heavy rain, check a Vivaro A's fuse box, ECU and electrical functions; random faults or a no-start can indicate water leaking from the windscreen area.[7]one sourceVivaro A (X83)
• Start a Vivaro B completely cold and listen for metallic timing-chain rattle; also scan for engine and emissions-system warnings.[7]one sourceVivaro B
• During a Vivaro B 1.6 BiTurbo test drive, watch for hesitation, power loss or limp mode and inspect the intercooler hoses and clamps for signs of separation.[7]one sourceVivaro B

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]Кульчак_М — Вся правда про Opel Vivaro – проблеми, двигуни і ресурс · ▶ video
2. [2]Vivaro 2004 — Opel Vivaro. Renault Trafic. Body condition after 20 years of use (corrosion). Is it worth buying... · ▶ video
3. [3]Auto BOSS — Opel Vivaro/Опель Виваро 1 и "братья" Renault Trafic и Nissan Primastar, БОЛЬШОЙ ОБЗОР · ▶ video
4. [4]iauto.lv — «Opel Vivaro» skaits sasniedz pusmiljonu · forum
5. [5]whatcar.lv — Jaunais Opel Vivaro: pirmie iespaidi - What Car? - WhatCar.lv · press
6. [6]tvnet.lv — Renault Trafic un Opel Vivaro · press
7. [7]transitcenter.pt — Opel Vivaro - Problemas Comuns - Transit Center · press

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