5 Common Vauxhall Zafira Problems

Common problems and repairs

Problem
Water Ingress via wheel arch

Affects model year 2019

A batch of late Zafiras built in October 2019 can have problems with water getting in to the passenger compartment via a poorly sealed wheel arch. This can lead to electrical problems including airbag malfunction.


What to do:

Vauxhall issued a recall for this whereby they sealed the affected wheel arches and replaced any damaged components.

Problem
Potential steering failure due to track rod end

Affects model year 2016

A problem on some Zafiras built in April 2016 is that a component of the steering / suspension system wasn't up to specification and so can allow the system to be damaged over time. When the car gets to higher mileage the part can fail entirely resulting in steering loss.


What to do:

Vauxhall issued a recall for this in July 2016 and replaced the affected part (track rod end) on cars where it wasn't up to spec. This shouldn't be an issue now but worth checking that any car built in this month has been checked if you're buying.


Parts connected to this problem

Problem
Boot Lock Switch

A common problem on the Zafira is a failed boot locking switch located on the driver's side door, it stops opening and closing the boot the lock.


What to do:

You'll need to have a replacement boot locking switch fitted to resolve the problem.

Problem
Central locking not opening rear doors

A known problem on Zafiras is the electrical wiring in the rear doors, sometimes it can fail and lead to problems unlocking the rear doors via the key fob.


What to do:

Generally the solution to this is to replace the affected wiring, you'll need an auto electrician to look at this.

Problem
Noisy (Knocking) Suspension

A common issue with Zafiras is faulty / damaged drop links. These are part of the suspension system and join other parts together for strength and stability. The go through a lot of stresses and can wear out, they have rubber bushes to absorb forces and reduce noise. When these fail in some way you'll hear the familiar knocking sound.


What to do:

To resolve this you can try replacing the bushes, or just go for new drop links entirely which is probably a better idea if you've already taken everything apart.


Parts connected to this problem
Zafira Part Problems
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