IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2014–2019 Vauxhall Adam

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2014–2019 Vauxhall Adam. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
2
Minor

The 2014–2019 period has 3 more issues than the Vauxhall Adam average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Timing Chain Stretch (1.0 Turbo)

SeriousEngine

The 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder engine can suffer from timing chain stretch if oil changes are not performed on schedule, leading to rattling on start-up and potential engine damage.

Most affected: 1.0 Turbo

Estimated cost: £500–£900Affects: 2014–2019Often appears around: 40,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Rattle on cold start
  • •Engine management light
  • •P0016 timing-related fault codes

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Insist on a stone-cold start to hear any rattle
  • ✓Demand proof of correct oil grade and change intervals
  • ✓Look for chain or tensioner replacement history

Ignition Coil Pack Failure

ModerateEngine

A very common issue on the 1.2 and 1.4 naturally aspirated engines. The coil pack fails, leading to a noticeable misfire and a flashing engine management light.

Most affected: 1.2i, 1.4i

Estimated cost: £100–£200Affects: 2012–2019

Typical symptoms

  • •Engine misfire
  • •Flashing engine management light
  • •Loss of power
  • •Rough idle

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for a smooth idle when the engine is warm
  • ✓Ask if the coil pack has been replaced recently

Infotainment Connectivity Dropouts

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Bluetooth and smartphone integration via the IntelliLink system can be intermittent, with pairing failures and audio dropouts reported regularly.

Most affected: All models with IntelliLink

Estimated cost: £0–£200Affects: 2013–2019Often appears around: Age-related rather than mileage-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Bluetooth disconnects unexpectedly
  • •Phone audio cuts out
  • •Slow or failed phone pairing

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Pair your own phone during the test drive
  • ✓Check for software update history
  • ✓Test audio streaming over Bluetooth

Front Suspension Knock from Drop Links

MinorSuspension & Chassis

The front anti-roll bar drop links wear prematurely, producing a clunking noise over bumps and potholes that is often mistaken for something more serious.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £80–£150Affects: 2013–2019Often appears around: 20,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Clunk from front over bumps
  • •Rattle at low speed on rough roads
  • •MOT advisory for play in links

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive over rough surfaces
  • ✓Inspect drop-link boots for splits
  • ✓Check if both sides were replaced together

Buying Tips for the 2014 Vauxhall Adam

  • ✓Check all interior trim pieces and custom coloured dashboard panels for damage, as replacements are surprisingly expensive
  • ✓Listen for a ticking noise from the engine on the 1.2 and 1.4 engines; while they have timing chains, they can stretch if oil changes are missed
  • ✓Test the air conditioning, as the condensers are vulnerable to stone chips through the front grille
2013 Vauxhall Adam

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Other Vauxhall Adam Year Periods

201220132014–2019

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