Common problems · Vauxhall
Vauxhall Corsa common problems and recalls
21 sourced problems across the Corsa's generations since 2012, plus 38 DVSA recalls. Enter a registration to see the ones that apply to your exact car.
Free · no signup · recalls, MOT data and researched problems
Corsa F (incl. Corsa-e / Corsa Electric) (2019 on)
Acknowledged by the manufacturer
Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.
- Recall · VauxhallElectrics
Recall: no warning if an indicator stops working
Corsa Fs built up to May 2021 were recalled because the driver might not be told when a turn indicator fails. The fix is new software for the body control (BSI) module.
Applies to: Corsa F built August 2019 to May 2021
3 sources
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — THE CUSTOMER MIGHT NOT BE ALERTED TO A MALFUNCTION OF THE TURN INDICATOR (R/2022/046)
- Car Recalls UK (mirror of DVSA recall data) — VAUXHALL CORSA F 2019–2021 – malfunction of the turn indicator (R/2022/046)
- Auto Express — Used Vauxhall Corsa (Mk5, 2020 to date) review
- Recall · VauxhallElectrics
Recall: side airbags could go off unexpectedly (poor earthing)
Corsa Fs built between June and October 2020 were recalled because poor electrical earthing could set off a side airbag unexpectedly. Dealers rework the earth studs.
Applies to: Corsa F built June to October 2020
- Recall · VauxhallHybrid & electric drive
Recall: air-con compressor wiring fault can shut the car down
Electric Corsa, Mokka, Combo and Vivaro models built October 2019 to November 2022 were recalled because a wiring fault inside the electric air-con compressor can draw current in a way that shuts the powertrain down while driving. The fix is updated software for the powertrain diagnosis unit.
Applies to: Corsa-e, Mokka-e, Combo-e and Vivaro-e built October 2019 to November 2022
Electric versions only.
- Recall · VauxhallHybrid & electric drive
Recall: on-board charger connection fault (early Corsa-e)
Some early Corsa-e models were recalled for an intermittent internal connection fault on the DC/DC chip of the on-board charger. Dealers check the charger, replace it if needed and update its software.
Applies to: Corsa-e built 2019–2020
Electric Corsa only.
- Recall · Stellantis (Vauxhall)Timing belt / chain
If it has the Stellantis 1.5 BlueHDi diesel (DV5 / DV5R, Vauxhall '1.5 Turbo D'): Recall: camshaft chain can wear early
On 1.5 diesels built between October 2017 and January 2023 the camshaft chain can wear too early. Owners may hear unusual engine noise or feel vibration, and in rare cases the chain breaks on start-up or while driving, causing a loss of power. This is a DVSA safety recall, and Stellantis covers the chain for 10 years or 150,000 miles.
Applies to: Vauxhall Corsa, Crossland, Grandland, Combo, Vivaro, Mokka and Zafira Life with the 1.5 Turbo D diesel (Stellantis DV5), built 2017–2023
3 sources
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — Vauxhall DV5R Engines Camshaft Chain (R/2025/245)
- Stellantis Media (UK) — Stellantis Extends Special Coverage for 1.5 BlueHDi engines to 10 years or 150,000 miles
- Parkers — Stellantis diesel engine recall: what UK drivers need to know about the 1.5 BlueHDi camshaft chain issue
- Compensation scheme · StellantisTiming belt / chain
If it has the Stellantis 1.2 PureTech petrol (Vauxhall '1.2 Turbo' / '1.2', belt-in-oil): Timing belt breaking down in the oil
The 1.2 petrol in the 2019–2023 Corsa has a timing belt that runs in the engine oil and can break down early, shedding material into the oil; the oil pressure warning is often the first sign. Stellantis has extended cover on these engines to 10 years or 112,000 miles, subject to its servicing conditions, and the cover includes excessive oil consumption. A fully stamped service history matters.
Applies to: Vauxhall Corsa (Corsa F) with the 1.2 PureTech petrol (belt-in-oil), built 2020–2023
Stellantis moved the 1.2 to a timing chain during 2023, and DVLA does not record which version a 2023-built car has. Corsas built in 2019 are left out because the old GM-engined Corsa E was still being built that year.
4 sources
- What Car? — Used Vauxhall Corsa 2019-present review - reliability & common problems
- Stellantis Media (UK) — Stellantis extends compensation policy for European consumers' claims on previous generations of PureTech 1.0 and 1.2 engines
- Fleet News — Stellantis opens 'wet belt' compensation portal for UK customers
- Parkers — Stellantis expands 'wet belt' compensation portal to include UK customers (model list)
Reported by owners and the motoring press
Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.
- Reported by 2 publishersElectrics
Electrical and software glitches (screens, lights, sensors)
Electrical faults are the main complaint on the Corsa F: Auto Express lists the lighting, blind-spot indicators, heated steering wheel and automatic wipers, and What Car? readers mention faulty infotainment screens, digital dashboard glitches and warning lights. Most are minor and often fixed with dealer software updates.
Applies to: Corsa F (2019 on)
- Reported by 2 publishersHybrid & electric drive
Corsa Electric: charging and electrical faults
What Car? readers report Corsa Electric faults with the battery, motor and various electrical systems, and a high share of faults left the car undriveable. RAC came across charging that switches off after about 20 minutes with a fault light. Check a full charge works on a test before buying.
Applies to: Corsa-e / Corsa Electric (2020 on)
Electric version only.
DVSA recalls for the Corsa F (incl. Corsa-e / Corsa Electric)
Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.
- Front airbag control unit concernR/2001/037 · 30/04/2001
Child seat safety cradle with transponder may not interact as intended with front passenger smart Airbag deactivation function. Software concern with control unit.
Remedy: Replace front Airbag control unit with a quality assured item.
Listed for: CORSA · built 2001
- BCM software missing telltale if LKA unavailableR/2026/182 · 27/04/2026
On affected vehicles the Lane Keep Assist tell-tale fails to illuminate if the front camera is blocked meaning no warning light appears in the instrument cluster.
Remedy: Update the Body Control Module software.
Listed for: CORSA F, COMBO · built 2024–2025
- Autonomous Telematics Box failure after OTA update.R/2025/087 · 27/02/2025
Affected vehicles may have been equipped with an Autonomous Telematic Box (ATB) which does not work.
Remedy: Change the ATB.
Listed for: COMBO CARGO, CORSA · built 2024
- Vauxhall Corsa F- Evaporation test results on EB2FA engines.R/2024/291 · 24/07/2024
Affected vehicles may exceed regulatory emission standards
Remedy: Replace the canister purge valve (CPV) and or fuel line.
Listed for: CORSA F · built 2019–2023
Show 20 more
- Traction Battery softwareR/2025/119 · 24/03/2025
Affected vehicles may face an error in the Battery Monitoring Unit software.
Remedy: Update the Battery Monitoring Unit software.
Listed for: COMBO, CORSA, MOKKA, VIVARO · built 2022–2023
- Vauxhall Corsa Mokka Combo ESC softwareR/2025/451 · 22/10/2025
Affected vehicles may have incorrect or missing tyre pressure messages displayed in the instrument cluster due to a software deviation.
Remedy: Update the Electric Stability Control calibration to ensure the correct tyre pressure warning messages are displayed
Listed for: MOKKA, COMBO, CORSA F · built 2023–2025
- Autonomous Telematics BoxR/2025/345 · 21/08/2025
Affected vehicles have been fitted with the wrong Autonomous Telematic Box. This means it cannot connect to the remoter server making it impossible to make E-Calls or use Intelligent Speed Assistance.
Remedy: Replace the Autonomous Telematic Box.
Listed for: CORSA F · built 2024–2025
- Seat adjuster concernR/2001/170 · 19/12/2001
The driver and front passenger seat longtitudinal adjuster latch spring may weaken and fail to lock the seat in the selected position. This could affect the drivers control of the vehicle and/or passenger safety.
Remedy: Recall affected vehicles and check the effectiveness of the adjuster latch spring. Fit a new seat base in cases where the spring is found to be defective.
Listed for: CORSA · built 2002
- Vauxhall Corsa Jet cooling nozzle failure.R/2025/072 · 19/02/2025
On affected vehicles the engine is at risk of becoming damaged because of an inadequate oil supply from an oil jet cooling nozzle.
Remedy: Replace the engine oil and filter.
Listed for: CORSA · built 2022–2024
- Emission recall – On Board DiagnosticsR/2025/342 · 18/08/2025
Vehicles may be affected by incorrect performance of the On-Board-Diagnostics related to Selective Catalytic Reduction system and/or Diesel Particle Filter. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may not illuminate in the event of a malfunction and therefore does not comply with emission regulations.
Remedy: Update the Engine Control Unit software to ensure compliance to regulations.
Listed for: COMBO, CORSA, CROSSLAND, GRANDLAND, MOVANO C, VIVARO · built 2017–2023
- Vauxhall Fuel PipeR/2025/282 · 18/07/2025
On affected vehicles there there may be loose connections between a high-pressure fuel pipe and the engine fuel rail which potentially could lead to a leak and risk of fire.
Remedy: Retighten the affected connections.
Listed for: ASTRA L, CORSA, MOKKA, GRANDLAND · built 2022–2025
- There is an error in the software calibration of the traction battery control unit which could result in a loss of propulsion when driving.R/2023/008 · 17/01/2023
There is an error in the software calibration of the traction battery control unit which could result in a loss of propulsion when driving.
Remedy: Update the software of the traction battery control unit.
Listed for: MOKKA ELECTRIC, COMBO ELECTRIC, CORSA ELECTRIC · built 2022
- MCU softwareR/2024/175 · 16/04/2024
On affected vehicles incorrect MCU (Motor Control Unit) calibration may result in a loss of propulsion while driving.
Remedy: Update the MCU (Motor Control Unit) calibration
Listed for: CORSA ELECTRIC · built 2023–2024
- Vauxhall Corsa F Rear axleR/2024/043 · 16/02/2024
Affected vehicles may have been built with a rear axle not properly welded.
Remedy: Check the rear axle assembly and replace it if necessary.
Listed for: CORSA F · built 2023
- Brake Pressure Modulator ValveR/2025/145 · 14/04/2025
On affected vehicles the Electronic Brake System Module is not according to specification which could potentially lead to light internal leakage of brake fluid.
Remedy: Replace the Electronic Brake System Module.
Listed for: CORSA, MOKKA · built 2024
- Vauxhall Automomous Telematics Box.R/2025/068 · 14/02/2025
Affected vehicles may experience an autonomous telematic box that cannot connect to the remote server making it not possible to make calls or use other connected services.
Remedy: Disconnect the 12V battery and reconnect it after 15 seconds then check for a trouble code.
Listed for: GRANDLAND, CORSA, MOKKA · built 2024
- Cross carline Engine softwareR/2024/133 · 13/03/2024
On affected vehicles below 12500 miles under certain conditions engine emissions may lead to a non-compliance to regulatory requirements.
Remedy: Check the mileage of the vehicle and update the ECU (Engine Control Unit) calibration on vehicles below 12500 miles.
Listed for: ASTRA L, CORSA, CROSSLAND, MOKKA · built 2022–2023
- Autonomous Telematics BoxR/2025/209 · 11/06/2025
On affected vehicles the Autonomous Telematics Box (ATB) has no connectivity to the Connected Services features and therefore does not comply with regulatory requirements.
Remedy: Replace the ATB to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Listed for: CORSA, COMBO · built 2024
- Software does not allow conformity testingR/2022/293 · 10/10/2022
Software does not allow the authorities to test according to regulation.
Remedy: Re-flash the Body Control software.
Listed for: CORSA ELECTRIC · built 2019–2022
- Alternator protectionR/2026/072 · 09/03/2026
Affected vehicles may have been assembled with contact or with a reduced clearance between the Gasoline Particulate Filter pipe and the pole protection cap of the 48V Belt Starter Generator. There is a possibility of contact between these components leading to water infiltration and an electrical arch which could trig…
Remedy: Replace the pole protection cap of the 48V Belt Starter Generator. Check the distance between the Gasoline Particulate Filter pipe and the pole protection cap of the 48V Belt Starter Generator and re…
Listed for: CORSA, MOKKA, FRONTERA · built 2023–2026
- The lambda control might not be robust/precise enough at high speedR/2019/070 · 08/04/2019
lambda control may result in NOx limit being exceeded during the vehicle lifetime.
Remedy: An engine management system software upgrade will be installed.
Listed for: CORSA E, ADAM · built 2018–2019
- Vauxhall Astra Corsa Mokka eVCU updateR/2025/044 · 07/02/2025
Affected vehicles may not comply with test requirements in the matter of emissions test execution by competent authorities and energy consumption may be too high.
Remedy: Update the electrical Vehicle Control Unit (eVCU) software.
Listed for: ASTRA L, CORSA, MOKKA · built 2023–2024
- Vauxhall Corsa Radio software via OTA update.R/2024/484 · 06/12/2024
On affected vehicles the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) functionality may not meet regulatory requirements and the Active Emergency Brake (AEB) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) can inadvertently be deactivated by a long press of the ADAS button on the radio.
Remedy: On the affected vehicles the radio software will be updated by an Over-The-Air update which will be remotely checked as successfully installed.
Listed for: CORSA F · built 2023–2024
- Seatbelts may stick when pulled out or retractedR/2019/450 · 03/03/2020
On affected vehicles certain seat belts might stick when pulled out and retracted.
Remedy: Replace the affected seat belts on the affected vehicles.
Listed for: CORSA E · built 2019
Measured at MOT: how a 2023 Corsa fails more often
Based on 81,785 first MOT tests of this model at 3 years old (cars first used 2021–2022), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.
Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.
How to read this
These are MOT outcomes for other cars of the same model, age and fuel — not a prediction about this one, and not a fault diagnosis. A high rate means the category is worth checking, not that this car has a problem.
A comparison is only shown where it survives its own margin of error. Where a model is only slightly above average, both rates are shown and no multiple is given, because the data cannot tell the difference.
MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.
Corsa E (2014–2019)
Acknowledged by the manufacturer
Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.
- Recall · VauxhallSteering
Recalls: steering shaft, rack or knuckles may break (2014–15 builds)
A run of recalls covered Corsas and Adams built in 2014 and 2015: a steering intermediate shaft that could break, steering racks whose teeth or gears could crack, and steering knuckles made out of specification. Any of these can cause loss of steering control. Dealers check the part's build date and replace it if affected.
Applies to: Corsa D, Corsa E and Adam built February 2014 to September 2015
Each recall covers a short build window; a Vauxhall dealer can confirm by VIN whether a car was included and whether the work was done.
6 sources
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL (R/2014/123)
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — STEERING RACK MAY FRACTURE (R/2016/292)
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL (R/2015/172)
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL (R/2015/032)
- Car Recalls UK (mirror of DVSA recall data) — VAUXHALL CORSA D – loss of steering control (R/2014/123)
- What Car? — Used Vauxhall Adam 2013-present review - reliability
- Recall · VauxhallSuspension
Recall: front knuckle-to-control-arm joint may work loose
On some Corsa E and Adam models built in 2014–2015, the joint between the front steering knuckle and the lower control arm may not have been assembled correctly and can come apart suddenly. Dealers inspect both sides and reassemble where needed.
Applies to: Corsa E and Adam built June 2014 to September 2015
- Recall · VauxhallEmissions, DPF & AdBlue
Recall: engine software update for NOx emissions
Corsa E and Adam models built January 2018 to April 2019 were recalled because the engine's lambda control may not be precise enough at high speed, so NOx emissions could exceed the limit over the car's life. The fix is an engine management software update.
Applies to: Corsa E and Adam built January 2018 to April 2019
3 sources
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — THE LAMBDA CONTROL MIGHT NOT BE ROBUST/PRECISE ENOUGH AT HIGH SPEED (R/2019/070)
- Car Recalls UK (mirror of DVSA recall data) — VAUXHALL CORSA E 2018–2019 – the lambda control might be faulty (R/2019/070)
- What Car? — Used Vauxhall Corsa 2014-2019 review - reliability
- Recall · VauxhallBrakes
Recall: handbrake may release on its own
Some Corsa E and Adam models built between August 2016 and January 2017 were recalled because contamination of the toothed segment can stop the handbrake pawl latching, so the handbrake may disengage. The lever assembly is replaced.
Applies to: Corsa E and Adam built August 2016 to January 2017
- Recall · Stellantis (Vauxhall)Timing belt / chain
If it has the Stellantis 1.5 BlueHDi diesel (DV5 / DV5R, Vauxhall '1.5 Turbo D'): Recall: camshaft chain can wear early
On 1.5 diesels built between October 2017 and January 2023 the camshaft chain can wear too early. Owners may hear unusual engine noise or feel vibration, and in rare cases the chain breaks on start-up or while driving, causing a loss of power. This is a DVSA safety recall, and Stellantis covers the chain for 10 years or 150,000 miles.
Applies to: Vauxhall Corsa, Crossland, Grandland, Combo, Vivaro, Mokka and Zafira Life with the 1.5 Turbo D diesel (Stellantis DV5), built 2017–2023
3 sources
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — Vauxhall DV5R Engines Camshaft Chain (R/2025/245)
- Stellantis Media (UK) — Stellantis Extends Special Coverage for 1.5 BlueHDi engines to 10 years or 150,000 miles
- Parkers — Stellantis diesel engine recall: what UK drivers need to know about the 1.5 BlueHDi camshaft chain issue
Reported by owners and the motoring press
Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.
- Reported by 2 publishersElectrics
Hard-to-trace electrical faults
Owners report electrical gremlins on the Corsa E — windows, central locking, mirrors and air-con can all play up, and What Car? readers mention battery and electrical-system faults causing breakdowns. On stop-start cars a tired AGM battery can cause problems and costs more than a standard one to replace.
Applies to: Corsa E (2014–2019)
- Reported by 2 publishersScreen, sat-nav & audio
USB phone connection can be glitchy
The USB socket used for phone connection, music and Apple CarPlay / Android Auto can be unreliable on the Corsa E. Bluetooth is reportedly more dependable. Test it with your own phone and cable before buying.
Applies to: Corsa E (2014–2019) with the touchscreen infotainment system
Only cars with the IntelliLink touchscreen, which DVLA does not record.
- Reported by 2 publishersGearbox
Easytronic automated manual: jerky, unreliable and costly to fix
The Easytronic 'automatic' is a manual gearbox with a computer-controlled clutch and shift. It is slow and jerky, and Auto Express says it is less reliable than the manual; Parkers says the electronic control can play up without warning, it has a normal clutch to wear out, and it is difficult to repair. A conventional auto or the manual is the safer buy.
Applies to: Corsa D (2006–2014) and Corsa E (2014–2019) with the Easytronic gearbox
Easytronic cars only. DVLA does not record the gearbox; the V5C or the gear selector will tell you.
- Reported by 2 publishersTiming belt / chain
If it has the Vauxhall 1.0 / 1.2 / 1.4 petrol (Family 0): 1.0/1.2/1.4 petrol: timing chain rattle and stretch
The small Vauxhall petrol engines use a timing chain that is meant to last, but worn tensioners and guides — made worse by skipped or late oil changes — cause a rattle, usually for a few seconds after a cold start. A stretched chain can bring misfires and a warning light, and if it jumps a tooth the engine can be badly damaged. A full chain kit is the usual repair.
Applies to: Corsa D, Corsa E and Adam with the 1.0, 1.2 or 1.4 petrol engine
DVLA records the capacity but not whether the 1.4 is the turbo, which shares its 1,364cc size.
DVSA recalls for the Corsa E
Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.
- Front airbag control unit concernR/2001/037 · 30/04/2001
Child seat safety cradle with transponder may not interact as intended with front passenger smart Airbag deactivation function. Software concern with control unit.
Remedy: Replace front Airbag control unit with a quality assured item.
Listed for: CORSA · built 2001
- Vauxhall Corsa F- Evaporation test results on EB2FA engines.R/2024/291 · 24/07/2024
Affected vehicles may exceed regulatory emission standards
Remedy: Replace the canister purge valve (CPV) and or fuel line.
Listed for: CORSA F · built 2019–2023
- Risk of fireR/2016/087 · 22/04/2016
Water ingress to the relay on the electrical vacuum pump may cause a short. In extreme instances this may lead to fire.
Remedy: On affected vehicles replace Vacuum Pump/Relay Assembly and apply special grease to electrical connectors
Listed for: CORSA D · built 2012–2014
- The customer might not be alerted to a malfunction of the turn indicatorR/2022/046 · 22/02/2022
The customer might not be alerted to a malfunction of the turn indicator.
Remedy: Update the Built-in System Interface (BSI) module with new software.
Listed for: CORSA F · built 2019–2021
Show 9 more
- Seat adjuster concernR/2001/170 · 19/12/2001
The driver and front passenger seat longtitudinal adjuster latch spring may weaken and fail to lock the seat in the selected position. This could affect the drivers control of the vehicle and/or passenger safety.
Remedy: Recall affected vehicles and check the effectiveness of the adjuster latch spring. Fit a new seat base in cases where the spring is found to be defective.
Listed for: CORSA · built 2002
- Emission recall – On Board DiagnosticsR/2025/342 · 18/08/2025
Vehicles may be affected by incorrect performance of the On-Board-Diagnostics related to Selective Catalytic Reduction system and/or Diesel Particle Filter. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may not illuminate in the event of a malfunction and therefore does not comply with emission regulations.
Remedy: Update the Engine Control Unit software to ensure compliance to regulations.
Listed for: COMBO, CORSA, CROSSLAND, GRANDLAND, MOVANO C, VIVARO · built 2017–2023
- Roof side rail airbag may deploy incorrectlyR/2017/033 · 17/03/2017
A roof side rail air bag may not deploy as intended
Remedy: On affected vehicles replace the airbag module assembly
Listed for: CORSA · built 2016
- A potential for an intermittent internal connection issue on the DC/DC chip of the on-board chargerR/2022/044 · 15/02/2022
A potential for an intermittent internal connection issue on the DC/DC chip of the on-board charger.
Remedy: Check and if necessary replace the on-board charger and update with the latest software.
Listed for: CORSA-E · built 2019–2020
- Software does not allow conformity testingR/2022/293 · 10/10/2022
Software does not allow the authorities to test according to regulation.
Remedy: Re-flash the Body Control software.
Listed for: CORSA ELECTRIC · built 2019–2022
- Short circuit may occurR/2017/021 · 10/02/2017
There is the possibility of water penetration into the vent hose resulting in water ingress into the vacuum pump over the wire harness and into the relay box. In the worst case a short circuit may lead to a risk of fire.
Remedy: On affected vehicles add a spray deflector to avoid water ingress into the vent hose replace the electronic vacuum pump/relay box assembly and apply special grease to the electrical terminals.
Listed for: CORSA D · built 2012–2014
- On affected vehicles the AC compressor stator wiring could develop a fault leading to current loss inside the AC compressor that could result in a vehicle powertrain shutdown when driving.R/2023/139 · 09/05/2023
On affected vehicles the AC compressor stator wiring could develop a fault leading to current loss inside the AC compressor that could result in a vehicle powertrain shutdown when driving.
Remedy: Reprogram the Powertrain Diagnosis ECU with updated software.
Listed for: CORSA-E, VIVARO-E, COMBO-E, MOKKA-E · built 2019–2022
- Model may be affected by unexpected opening of the hood while drivingR/2018/269 · 05/10/2018
Unexpected opening of the hood while driving.
Remedy: Check operation and repair if required.
Listed for: CORSA E · built 2018
- Seatbelts may stick when pulled out or retractedR/2019/450 · 03/03/2020
On affected vehicles certain seat belts might stick when pulled out and retracted.
Remedy: Replace the affected seat belts on the affected vehicles.
Listed for: CORSA E · built 2019
Measured at MOT: how a 2017 Corsa fails more often
Based on 161,280 first MOT tests of this model at 9 years old (cars first used 2015–2016), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.
Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.
How to read this
These are MOT outcomes for other cars of the same model, age and fuel — not a prediction about this one, and not a fault diagnosis. A high rate means the category is worth checking, not that this car has a problem.
A comparison is only shown where it survives its own margin of error. Where a model is only slightly above average, both rates are shown and no multiple is given, because the data cannot tell the difference.
MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.
Corsa D (2006–2014)
Acknowledged by the manufacturer
Recalls, extended warranties, compensation schemes, service actions and statements.
- Recall · VauxhallSteering
Recalls: steering shaft, rack or knuckles may break (2014–15 builds)
A run of recalls covered Corsas and Adams built in 2014 and 2015: a steering intermediate shaft that could break, steering racks whose teeth or gears could crack, and steering knuckles made out of specification. Any of these can cause loss of steering control. Dealers check the part's build date and replace it if affected.
Applies to: Corsa D, Corsa E and Adam built February 2014 to September 2015
Each recall covers a short build window; a Vauxhall dealer can confirm by VIN whether a car was included and whether the work was done.
6 sources
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL (R/2014/123)
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — STEERING RACK MAY FRACTURE (R/2016/292)
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL (R/2015/172)
- DVSA – Check vehicle recalls (GOV.UK) — LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL (R/2015/032)
- Car Recalls UK (mirror of DVSA recall data) — VAUXHALL CORSA D – loss of steering control (R/2014/123)
- What Car? — Used Vauxhall Adam 2013-present review - reliability
- Recall · VauxhallElectrics
Recall: water in the brake vacuum pump relay can short (fire risk)
Some Corsa Ds built from mid-2012 to September 2014 were recalled because water can get into the electric brake vacuum pump and its relay through a vent hose, causing a short circuit and, in extreme cases, a fire. Dealers fit a spray deflector and a new pump and relay assembly.
Applies to: Corsa D built July 2012 to September 2014 with an electric brake vacuum pump
Only Corsas fitted with an electric brake vacuum pump; the recall does not say which versions have one.
Reported by owners and the motoring press
Problems at least two independent publishers report, that the maker has not acknowledged. They describe the model, not every car.
- Reported by 2 publishersSuspension
Front suspension top mounts wear early
Clonking from the front suspension over bumps is a known Corsa D trait, usually worn strut top mounts (bearings); What Car? says many need replacing within two or three years, or as little as 10,000 miles. A broken front coil spring can make a similar noise. The parts are not expensive.
Applies to: Corsa D (2006–2014)
- Reported by 6 publishersGearbox
M32 six-speed manual: worn bearings cause whine and lever movement
The GM 'M32' six-speed manual gearbox is known for bearing wear. Signs are a whine (often in 5th and 6th, or in all gears), the gear lever twitching or moving under load, and rattling. Caught early, specialists replace the bearings; left, it can wreck the gearbox. Changing the gearbox oil helps, though it isn't in the service schedule. A redesigned casing with larger bearings arrived from around mid-2012, and specialists say it largely cured the main bearing fault.
Applies to: Six-speed manual Corsa D, Astra J and Insignia A, mainly gearboxes built up to 2012–13
Six-speed manual only — most smaller-engined cars have a five-speed. DVLA does not record the gearbox, and some 2012–2013 cars already have the improved casing.
6 sources
- What Car? — Used Vauxhall Corsa 2006 - 2014 review - reliability & common problems
- Parkers — Used Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2009 - 2015) Review
- Car Mechanics — Buying, Owning & Improving the Vauxhall Insignia
- WG Motorworks — M32 Gearbox Repair / Information / Service / Upgrade
- Eco-Torque — Death of the M32 Gearbox – Is it the end of the road for the troublesome transmission
- Sinspeed — Common M20 / M32 Gearbox Bearing Failures – Repairs & Rebuilds
- Reported by 3 publishersSteering
Electric power steering column can fail (EPS light, heavy steering)
The Corsa D's electric power steering column is a well-known failure. The EPS warning light comes on and assistance is lost completely or comes and goes, the steering can feel heavy, and some cars judder. The motor, its control unit or the torque sensor inside the column fails; specialists rebuild or exchange the column for much less than a new one.
Applies to: Corsa D (2006–2014)
- Reported by 2 publishersTiming belt / chain
If it has the Vauxhall 1.0 / 1.2 / 1.4 petrol (Family 0): 1.0/1.2/1.4 petrol: timing chain rattle and stretch
The small Vauxhall petrol engines use a timing chain that is meant to last, but worn tensioners and guides — made worse by skipped or late oil changes — cause a rattle, usually for a few seconds after a cold start. A stretched chain can bring misfires and a warning light, and if it jumps a tooth the engine can be badly damaged. A full chain kit is the usual repair.
Applies to: Corsa D, Corsa E and Adam with the 1.0, 1.2 or 1.4 petrol engine
DVLA records the capacity but not whether the 1.4 is the turbo, which shares its 1,364cc size.
- Reported by 2 publishersCooling
If it has the Vauxhall 1.3 CDTi diesel (Fiat MultiJet-derived): 1.3 CDTi diesel: oil cooler failure contaminates coolant
On the 1.3 CDTi diesel Corsa D, a failed oil cooler lets oil into the coolant. With the engine cold, look for oily sludge in the coolant expansion tank. In severe cases the repair can cost more than the car is worth.
Applies to: Corsa D (2006–2014) with the 1.3 CDTi diesel
DVSA recalls for the Corsa D
Listed by DVSA for this model during these build years. Not every car is affected — check yours by VIN on GOV.UK.
- Front airbag control unit concernR/2001/037 · 30/04/2001
Child seat safety cradle with transponder may not interact as intended with front passenger smart Airbag deactivation function. Software concern with control unit.
Remedy: Replace front Airbag control unit with a quality assured item.
Listed for: CORSA · built 2001
- Vauxhall Corsa D Passenger AirbagR/2024/374 · 26/09/2024
On affected vehicles the passenger front airbag may not deploy properly in the event of a collision.
Remedy: On affected vehicles the passenger front air bag will be replaced.
Listed for: CORSA D · built 2009
- Seat adjuster concernR/2001/170 · 19/12/2001
The driver and front passenger seat longtitudinal adjuster latch spring may weaken and fail to lock the seat in the selected position. This could affect the drivers control of the vehicle and/or passenger safety.
Remedy: Recall affected vehicles and check the effectiveness of the adjuster latch spring. Fit a new seat base in cases where the spring is found to be defective.
Listed for: CORSA · built 2002
- Braking performance may be reducedR/2011/110 · 19/09/2011
Due to the insufficient strength of the material used in the brake pedal bearing it is possible that the bearing could fail when extreme force is applied to it during heavy or extreme braking.
Remedy: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the brake pedal bearing.
Listed for: CORSA · built 2006–2011
Show 5 more
- Handbrake may failR/2011/128 · 19/09/2011
The parking brake may not hold in the applied position as a result of a nonconformity in the manufacturing process which affects the hardness of the ratchet and pawl material.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check the production date of the handbrake lever assembly and replace if necessary.
Listed for: CORSA D · built 2009–2010
- ABS may failR/2007/171 · 17/12/2007
It is possible for moisture to enter the ABS connector/control unit. This can cause the ABS system not to function correctly and in the worst case overheating which may lead to fire.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to check the ABS control unit fit a protective cover to the control unit and seal the earth point with wax.
Listed for: COMBO, TIGRA, CORSA · built 2003–2007
- Handbrake may failR/2010/056 · 10/06/2010
The mounting end of the handbrake cable may move in its support bracket. This might result in the loss of the handbrake function.
Remedy: Recall affected vehicles to either have a washer installed or the replacement of the cable.
Listed for: CORSA · built 2009–2010
- Fire may occurR/2015/091 · 05/06/2015
Moisture can ingress and accumulate inside the ABS control unit. Excessive accumulation of moisture may cause a fire.
Remedy: On affected vehicles install an additional ABS module protection cover.
Listed for: CORSA, COMBO, TIGRA · built 2003–2008
- Loss of stabilityR/2015/234 · 04/12/2015
The connection between the steering knuckle and the lower control arm may not be assembled correctly. If this condition is evident the connection could become insecure. The event can happen suddenly and unexpectedly in which case the vehicle is no longer controllable.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and inspect the connection between the steering knuckle and the lower control arm on both sides of the vehicle. Where necessary the connection will…
Listed for: CORSA, ADAM · built 2014–2015
Measured at MOT: how a 2010 Corsa fails more often
Based on 75,240 first MOT tests of this model at 16 years old (cars first used 2008–2009), compared against every car of the same age and fuel.
Nothing stands out. No category fails clearly more often on this model than on cars of the same age and fuel.
How to read this
These are MOT outcomes for other cars of the same model, age and fuel — not a prediction about this one, and not a fault diagnosis. A high rate means the category is worth checking, not that this car has a problem.
A comparison is only shown where it survives its own margin of error. Where a model is only slightly above average, both rates are shown and no multiple is given, because the data cannot tell the difference.
MOT results reflect how a car has been used and maintained as much as the model itself. High mileage, short journeys and deferred servicing all show up here.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Failure rates derived by FindServiceHistory from the DVSA anonymised MOT test and failure-item extracts.
MOT failure rate: the Corsa against vehicles its age
In our analysis of DVSA's anonymised MOT data for 2024 and 2025, 36.1% of 1,762,954 initial MOT tests on the Vauxhall Corsa failed at the first attempt — 22% more often than vehicles of the same ages and fuel types, which failed 29.4%.
CorsaCars of the same age and fuel (all makes)
| Age | Tests | Bars | Corsa | Same age & fuel | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3–5 years | 278,806 | 17.9% | 13.3% | 34% higher | |
| 6–9 years | 520,614 | 31.5% | 23.0% | 36% higher | |
| 10–14 years | 641,137 | 41.9% | 35.1% | 19% higher | |
| 15–19 years | 273,761 | 47.3% | 42.8% | 10% higher | |
| 20–40 years | 48,636 | 48.0% | 40.4% | 18% higher |
These describe the model, not one car: how vehicles are used and maintained shows up as much as how they were built. Differences are the conservative end of a 95% confidence interval.
Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Rates and comparisons are FindServiceHistory's own analysis, not DVSA figures.
These describe the model, not one car. Plenty of cars never have the problems their model is known for, and a recall may already have been done on yours. Every problem links to its sources; a reported problem needs two independent publishers before we list it.
Recalls are listed by DVSA for the model around its build date — check a specific car by VIN at GOV.UK. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Common questions
What are the most common Corsa problems?
For cars built from 2012, the problems at least two independent publishers report include: Electrical and software glitches (screens, lights, sensors); Corsa Electric: charging and electrical faults; Hard-to-trace electrical faults; USB phone connection can be glitchy; Easytronic automated manual: jerky, unreliable and costly to fix. Which apply depends on the generation and engine — they are listed generation by generation above, each with its sources.
Has the Corsa been recalled?
Yes. DVSA lists recalls for the Corsa built from 2012, shown above by generation. A recall covers a range of chassis numbers, so not every car is affected — check a specific car by VIN on GOV.UK, or by registration with our checker.
Does my Corsa have these problems?
Not necessarily. These describe the model; many cars never have them, and a well-maintained car is less likely to. Enter your registration above to see the problems for your exact generation and engine, and whether DVSA records an outstanding recall on it. Whether a known problem was fixed is what a service history check shows.
Has this Corsa had the work done?
A known problem matters far less on a car whose dealer records show it was fixed. A service history check returns the manufacturer's own dealership records for a specific car — and there's no charge if we find nothing.
Check a Vauxhall service historyMore common problems
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- Vauxhall MOT failure rates by model
- Check a specific car's MOT history
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