Opel Astra G

The compact Astra G (the factory designation Opel Astra of the second generation) was introduced in 1998. The design of the car was not so welcome, but its practical qualities were immediately appreciated by motorists.

Review

The compact Astra G (the factory designation Opel Astra of the second generation) was introduced in 1998. The design of the car was not so welcome, but its practical qualities were immediately appreciated by motorists. Astra 2 is not too big, and therefore convenient for parking. It also offers a lot of space in the cabin. It still looks good today, especially if it is in good condition. The car is really compact. Even the wagon is only 4288 mm long. Nowadays, some compact hatchbacks are longer. But despite its limited size, the wagon designers managed to save enough space for four people and find space for a 480-liter trunk. With folded seats, the maximum cargo capacity grows to 1500 liters. Not bad! There's a surprisingly lot of space inside. The driver’s seat has a range of adjustments sufficient even for “verzil”. The upholstery of the seats is durable. Headrests in some Astra 2 are set low, without the possibility of adjustment. While the steering column can change its position in two planes. Unlike the front head restraints, the rear confidently overlap the view back. Large rectangular doors make it easier to board the second row, and there is still plenty of space above the passengers' heads. The Astra G is a car from the time when the priority was in the cabin space, not fashion lines. The instrument panel of Opel Astra has a very simple design. Speed and speed indicators are located next to each other.

Characteristic problems and malfunctions

Compared to the first generation, the body of the Opel Astra G is much better protected from corrosion. But age does its job, so when buying it is necessary to pay attention to whether the hood, trunk lid, rear wheel arches or the edges of the doors rust. Corrosion can also be found on the chassis elements. Fortunately, there rust, most often, does not have a detrimental effect. You should also check the headlights, which will not be able to hide the age of the car. Astra G engineers have made plastic optics glazing, which has been rapidly losing transparency over the years. Polishing does not always give the desired result, because the “glass” can “bleach” throughout the area. In addition, when polishing, the factory layer of protective varnish is damaged. The window control unit on the door handle is durable. In case of disobedience of the glass, as a rule, the cause must be sought in the electric motor drive. In the control unit of the electric drive of mirrors sometimes stops working switch left-right. The central display, located under the windshield, proved unreliable. It displays information depending on the mood, and at the right moment simply stops showing anything. This is a good idea to consider before buying Astra 2. It is also worth checking the work of wipers - their electric motor is not among the durable ones. The surprises from the Astra G electrician end there. You have to admit that for a young car, it is a small thing. All thanks to simple equipment. If there is air conditioning on board, it is necessary to check its operability (intensity and flow distribution).

Engines

Among the engines, the most optimal is considered a 1.6-liter gasoline engine. The powertrain provides the best trade-off between performance and efficiency. the 1.4-liter engine is too weak, and the 1.8-liter engine is voracious. The 2.2-liter engine should be avoided due to rapid stretching of the timing system chain.

16-valve 1.6-liter engine develops power of 100 hp and in motion demonstrates good elasticity - pulls well already from low revs. However, at high speeds, it is too noisy. Weaknesses - leakage of oil and increased oil consumption for carbon monoxide due to wear of piston rings. Leaks can be eliminated, and you will have to get used to oil consumption.

Transmissions

Oil leaks are also observed in the manual transmission. The manufacturer has several times upgraded the problem areas, but to get rid of the defect and failed. In addition, over time, the steering rack begins to “sweat” in the area of the exit of the steering rods.

In pair with the 1.6-liter engine, a 5-speed mechanics works. The transmissions, according to the custom of Opel, are long. This can be annoying in the city, but on the highway it helps to reduce the load on the engine (by working at low revs) and reduces the noise level from the engine.

Walking

The Astra G suspension is considered hardy. If you have to repair it, the costs will be small. Most often with age, Silentblocks lose their elasticity. Also, springs are sometimes destroyed - this disease is well known to owners.

Characteristic problems and malfunctions

• Compared to the first generation, the body of the Opel Astra G is much better protected from corrosion.
• But age does its job, so when buying it is necessary to pay attention to whether the hood, trunk lid, rear wheel arches or the edges of the doors rust.
• Corrosion can also be found on the chassis elements.
• Fortunately, there rust, most often, does not have a detrimental effect.
• You should also check the headlights, which will not be able to hide the age of the car.
• In case of disobedience of the glass, as a rule, the cause must be sought in the electric motor drive.
• This is a good idea to consider before buying Astra 2.
• It is also worth checking the work of wipers - their electric motor is not among the durable ones.
• If there is air conditioning on board, it is necessary to check its operability (intensity and flow distribution).

Engines

• The 2.2-liter engine should be avoided due to rapid stretching of the timing system chain.
• Weaknesses - leakage of oil and increased oil consumption for carbon monoxide due to wear of piston rings.

Transmissions

• The manufacturer has several times upgraded the problem areas, but to get rid of the defect and failed.
• In addition, over time, the steering rack begins to “sweat” in the area of the exit of the steering rods.

Walking

• If you have to repair it, the costs will be small.
• Also, springs are sometimes destroyed - this disease is well known to owners.

The version with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine is the most successful. Technically, Astra 2 is simple and familiar to mechanics, and troubleshooting is not expensive. In the used car market, this model is one of the cheapest in content.

• The compact Astra G (the factory designation Opel Astra of the second generation) was introduced in 1998.
• Characteristic problems and malfunctions: Compared to the first generation, the body of the Opel Astra G is much better protected from corrosion.
• Engines: Weaknesses - oil leakage and increased oil consumption for carbon monoxide due to the wear of piston rings.
• Transmissions: The manufacturer has upgraded the problem areas several times, but it has not been possible to get rid of the defect.
• If you have to repair it, the costs will be small.

Shows, bargaining and re-registration take time: buyers look, promise to think and disappear. Fair price after inspection closes the auction on the spot. If money is needed urgently, the purchase takes away waiting and repeat displays.

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