IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2019 Vauxhall Adam

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

4
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
2
Minor

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£900
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • 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
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£200
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Check for a smooth idle when the engine is warm
  • Ask if the coil pack has been replaced recently
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Infotainment Connectivity Dropouts

MinorElectrics & Electronics

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

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£200
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Pair your own phone during the test drive
  • Check for software update history
  • Test audio streaming over Bluetooth
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

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.

Est. Repair Cost: £80–£150
Warning Signs:

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

What to Inspect:
  • Drive over rough surfaces
  • Inspect drop-link boots for splits
  • Check if both sides were replaced together
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2019 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
Check a 2019 Vauxhall Adam by Registration