What are the most common Opel Zafira problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2016 Opel Zafira has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 1.6 CDTi Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and Chain Stretch (B16DTH/B16DTE/B16DTL), Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTI EGR Cooler Failure, NOx Sensor / SCR System Failure on Euro 6 Diesels (Zafira Tourer C). Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Opel Zafira reliable?
The 2016 Opel Zafira has 3 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 1.6 CDTi Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and Chain Stretch (B16DTH/B16DTE/B16DTL) and Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTI EGR Cooler Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Opel Zafira problems?
Repair costs for known Opel Zafira issues range from $200 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 1.6 CDTi Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and Chain Stretch (B16DTH/B16DTE/B16DTL), typically costs $1,700-$4,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2014-2019 Opel Zafira 1.6 CDTi Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and Chain Stretch (B16DTH/B16DTE/B16DTL)?
The 'whisper diesel' 1.6 CDTi engines fitted to the Zafira Tourer C suffer a well-documented timing chain failure. The original chain tensioner lacks a gasket, so oil drains out of the tensioner when the engine is switched off. This produces a metallic rattle/ticking on cold star… Repairs typically run $1,700-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2013-2019 Opel Zafira Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTI EGR Cooler Failure?
The B16DTH "Whisper Diesel" 1.6 CDTI in Zafira Tourer (and shared Astra J/K) suffers EGR cooler failure with similar symptoms to the 2.0 CDTI: coolant disappearing, white smoke, and sweet smell. Typical onset 80,000-150,000 km. Repairs typically run $550-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2015-2019 Opel Zafira NOx Sensor / SCR System Failure on Euro 6 Diesels (Zafira Tourer C)?
Euro 6 diesel Zafira Tourer C models with SCR/AdBlue (1.6 CDTi B16DTH and 2.0 CDTi B20DTH/D20DTH) commonly suffer NOx sensor failure. The upstream/downstream NOx sensors degrade and report implausible values, setting catalyst-efficiency and NOx-sensor codes (e.g. P20EE, P229F, P1… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: medium.
