Apr 6, 2023 | Buying advice |
The Opel Corsa celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2022, a real milestone for the big German car brand. When it was launched in 1982, the Opel Corsa caused a real revolution in the small car class. The Corsa is now in its sixth generation and the model is as popular as ever. Last year, the Corsa was one of the best-selling cars in several countries and the new electric Opel Corsa-e won several awards.
Opel Corsa, the beginning
To fully understand the Corsa's popularity since its debut in 1982, it is first necessary to look at another successful model: the Opel Kadett. Initially a small car about 3.8 metres long, conceived and designed for the general public, it first appeared on public roads in 1937. As time went on, the Kadett became bigger and more powerful, creating a demand for a smaller and more compact model. So it was high time for a new, truly small car - time for the Corsa. The Corsa rolled off the production line at the newly built car plant in Zaragoza for the first time in autumn 1982 and was an instant success right from the start. To date - 40 years after its launch - more than 14 million units have left the factory, most of them produced in Zaragoza and Eisenach.
This success is due in no small part to the numerous technologies introduced in the various Corsa generations, which were previously only available in more expensive cars. These include safety and assistance systems such as ABS and airbags, as well as the front camera with distance indicator, traffic sign recognition and lane keep assist, and most recently the adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux LED® Matrix light. The best-selling small car, now in its sixth generation, demonstrates its ability to innovate again and again and be ready for the future. Since 2019, it is also completely emission-free for the first time: as the electric Opel Corsa-e. Which models preceded it?
Opel Corsa A 1983-1993
The Corsa A was a compact car with a length of just 3.62 metres. It had bold, flared wheel arches (reminiscent of a rally car) and an exceptionally low drag coefficient of 0.36 that was potentially record-breaking for its class. Chief designer Erhard Schnell had designed a sporty little car with sharp, sporty lines, meant to appeal especially to 'the gentleman of the house'. The highlight was the 100 hp Corsa GSi and the diesel engine also made its appearance. The range of two-door hatchbacks and sedans was expanded in 1985 with the addition of the popular five-door model. The Corsa A became an acclaimed bestseller with 3.1 million units built.
Opel Corsa B 1993-2000
Despite the success of the number 1 Corsa, it was decided in Rüsselsheim to position its successor as a real "darling for women". Vauxhall design legend Hideo Kodama went to work and created a much rounder, softer Corsa, with attractive 'saucer-eyed' headlights meant to give the car a cute look. The Corsa B was ten centimetres longer and much roomier inside than its predecessor. It also introduced higher safety standards in its segment, including ABS cadence brakes, side impact protection and front airbags. For special markets, Opel again offered a sedan in addition to the hatchback, as well as station wagon and pick-up variants. Petrol engines already had fuel injection technology and catalytic converters, while the GSi had 16 valves and the diesel engine was now turbocharged. The second Corsa was successful around the world, selling more than four million units.
Opel Corsa C 2000-2006
You shouldn't change a formula for success, and so Hideo Kodama was again asked to design the Corsa C. The look of this model deliberately focused on its successful predecessor. The Corsa grew again by ten centimetres to a total length of just under 3.84 metres and was given a wider stance with a longer wheelbase, greatly increasing interior space. For the first time, the bodywork was fully galvanised. Advanced four-valve ECOTEC petrol engines and new direct-injection turbo-diesel engines provided high power, low fuel consumption and the lowest emission values - all variants already met Euro 4 emission standards. The Corsa C also became a success, selling 2.5 million units.
Opel Corsa D 2006-2014
From now on, the three- and five-door versions will go their separate ways: like the original Corsa A, the three-door Corsa has unique, coupé-like styling aimed at sporty customers. The five-door variant will be a spacious, fully - fledged family car. Less than four metres long, the Corsa D was now exactly 3,999 metres long. With Opel's ecoFLEX technology, the Corsa had fuel-saving Start/Stop systems and highly efficient engines. The 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX version consumes just 3.3 l/100 km over the combined cycle and emits just 88 g/km of CO2 (according to NEDC). More than 2.9 million units of the fourth-generation Corsa were sold.
Opel Corsa E 2014-2019
Dynamic, practical and stylish, the Corsa E is also a bestseller with around 1.3 million units sold. The fifth generation is also built at the Opel plants in Zaragoza and in Eisenach. For the first time, the car crosses the four-metre mark and offers high comfort and top technologies over a length of 4.02 metres. Naturally, a heated steering wheel, seat heating and automatic climate control are present, as are the front camera with distance indicator, traffic sign recognition and Lane Keep Assist.Corsa drivers are optimally connected with the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible IntelliLink infotainment systems, including a seven-inch colour touchscreen. The sporty flagship model of the small car is initially the 152 kW (207 hp) Corsa OPC and later the Corsa GSi with 110 kW (150 hp).
Opel Corsa F, the electric version from 2019
Opel is ready for the future with the latest Corsa. The latest generation of the small car, which had its world premiere at the 2019 Frankfurt International Motor Show, is also available as an all-electric, emission-free version. A real highlight is also the adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux LED® Matrix lighting, which Opel also offers for the first time in the small car segment with the current Corsa. There are also numerous advanced assistance systems such as Forward Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking and pedestrian detection, as well as radar-based Adaptive Speed Control, which make driving even safer and more relaxing. At 4.06 metres long, the five-seat Corsa remains exemplary in terms of handling, clear controls and usability. The coupé-style roofline is 48 millimetres lower than that of its predecessor, without sacrificing headroom. The driver sits 28 millimetres lower. The low centre of gravity benefits driving performance and handling. The latest Corsa is more direct and dynamic - for more fun behind the wheel. With this recipe for success, the small car is once again very popular and several countries the best-selling car in the small segment and has already won several awards. Not bad Vauxhall!
Did you get excited after reading this article and also want to look for a used Vauxhall Corsa? Then check out this website with a wide range of quality Opel used cars.
Mar 27, 2023 | Buying advice |
When buying a used car, many aspects come into play. We have summarised here for you what you should definitely look out for.
Used car buying tips
- Check for rust and assessment of paintwork
- Measure the tread depth of the tyres
- View the windows
- Control of lighting
- Interior inspection
- Mileage comparison
- View the engine compartment
- Start the engine
- Check driving behaviour
- Brake test
- Personal conclusion: decisive when buying a used car
Below, we elaborate on all these points.
Preparation before buying a 2nd hand car
Do research before buying a used car. Even before you go for a test drive, you should familiarise yourself with the vehicle model: what are the typical weak points, what service intervals should be adhered to (e.g. replacing the timing belt)?
If you really want to be sure, you can have a purchase inspection carried out by an independent garage. This can avoid unpleasant surprises.
Checking for rust
Check the bodywork! Are there any rust spots or scratches and oddities that could become rust spots? Typical rust spots can be found on the wheel arches, door edges, the petrol cap and on trims. Also examine the paintwork in daylight for blemishes or colour differences, which could be an indication of damage. Also look under the car (bring a torch and a pillow!): Is the underside clean and not rusted through and if there are traces of oil?
Measure tread tyres
You can use a tread depth gauge to check the tread depth of tyres. A minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm for summer tyres and 4 mm for winter tyres is mandatory. If the tyres are already very worn, they should be replaced as soon as possible, which you should take into account when calculating the price. Also check that the tyres are worn evenly: irregular wear can indicate problems such as incorrect tyre pressure or poor alignment.
Watch the windows carefully
Look carefully at the windows. Even minor damage, such as from stone chips, can quickly become a major problem and costly. So look carefully for star holes or cracks in the windows.
Inspect the lighting
Check the operation of all lights, i.e.: headlights, indicators, brake lights, fog lights and tail lights. Also check the hoods for cracks, stone chips, etc. Warning: If the headlight fogs up on the inside, this may indicate a defect.
View interior
Are the seat covers and surfaces in good condition? Does the dashboard show any damage, cracks or the like? Can the seats be easily adjusted or folded down (rear seats)? The seat belts should be able to roll up smoothly and lock when pulled hard. Also check that the windows, wipers, horn and all lights around work and that the mirrors are adjusted properly. Fan, heating and possibly air conditioning should also be tried. Also watch out for any nasty smells. All rubber seals (windows, boot, doors, sunroof if any) should be intact and not porous.
The mileage
Does the odometer reading on the dashboard match the seller's information and in documents such as the service booklet? And does this odometer reading match the condition of the car? An example: if the pedals and gear lever are already clearly worn and the driver's seat is worn, with only 80,000 kilometres on the odometer, this could indicate bedrof. So use common sense.
Look under the bonnet
Is rust detectable (check sidewalls too)? Is there any oil or fluid loss? Are the rubbers etc. in order? Oil, brake fluid and cooling water levels should be checked, deviations may indicate defects.
Start the engine
When starting the engine, make sure it starts easily, runs smoothly and that you don't hear any unusual noises. Tip: Before buying a used car, take a second person to the vehicle inspection and let them get behind the wheel during the test drive too! Four eyes see more than two, and any abnormalities in the driving can be more easily detected together.
Take a test drive
Only now does the actual test drive begin. Make sure the engine runs smoothly and the throttle responds well. Does the transmission shift smoothly and quietly? How well does the steering respond? Does the car drive straight on a flat, straight road or are there any deviations in one direction? Does the vehicle and/or steering vibrate at higher speeds? When driving slowly, open the window and prick up your ears: do you hear unusual noises from the engine, exhaust, etc.?
Test the brakes
Test the brakes in a safe environment (e.g. in a car park). While braking, release the steering wheel briefly: If the car turns in one direction, the brakes should be readjusted. Also apply the handbrake stepwise.
Personal conclusion
Ultimately, of course, a test drive is the only way to determine whether a car suits you or not. What is the car like, does it have enough power, how is it handling? Is it spacious enough? Does the handling meet expectations? Even if there are no objective flaws: if you doubt during the test drive whether the car really suits you, you may need to test other models before buying this car. Take a look at this website for a used car
Mar 27, 2023 | Buying advice |
The Opel Corsa is 1 of the smaller Opel models and is a fixture on the European car market. But not only here, but also worldwide, this model is successfully sold by General Motors under various brand names, including Chevrolet. With more than 10 million units sold in 5 series (A, B, C, D and E) in Europe alone, the Opel Corsa can no longer be taken off the road.
Buying Opel Corsa as a 2nd hand car
The supply of used Corsa cars is huge. In particular, the C, D and E series of the Corsa are widely available and can be found in every conceivable state. Like its major competitors, the VW Polo and Ford Fiesta, the Vauxhall Corsa is available in both 3- and 5-door versions. The C, D and E series of the Corsa in particular are relatively unobtrusive and rock solid cars. But as with all cars, the Corsa has problems from time to time. On this page, we try to list the most common problems so you can start looking for your Corsa well-informed.
Opel Corsa model C
From the Opel Corsa C onwards, rust no longer plays a major role in Opel's small cars. The bodywork is largely made of galvanised sheet steel. However, slight rust can form on the underside, this can be caused, for example, by the salt spread in winter against slipperiness. Proper maintenance of the vehicle with timely replacement of the bottom protection or regular bottom cleaning can do wonders to prevent such damage. However, if rust holes have already formed, you should still seek the help of a professional.
The Corsa C's exhaust systems are also prone to rust and cracks can appear in the exhaust manifold. Again, you should keep a close eye on this and maintain the car nicely.
Another known weakness is the electro-hydraulic power steering. This also applies to the door locks and central locking system. Replacing these parts is then necessary and can cost a lot. So inquire about this when you buy, it may have already been replaced.
The 1.0 petrol engines are fitted with a timing chain that should actually last a car's lifetime. But it often does not; even after low mileage, rattling noises can occur due to chain elongation. A costly chain replacement is then needed sooner rather than later. If no timing chain is, takes a timing belt the work over, which should always be replaced according to the replacement interval.
Other than that, the engines in the Corsa C have no problems, as is typical for Vauxhall, provided the fluids etc are changed properly and the car gets its service regularly.
Opel Corsa D and Corsa E
The Opel Corsa D, introduced in 2006, was created in collaboration with Fiat. It shares many technical components with the Punto. As with the Italian Punto, the 4th model generation of the Corsa regularly suffers from broken suspension springs and worn wheel bearings.
Problems with the timing chain are also more common. This time, however, with the Fiat-developed 1.3 CDTi Turbo Diesel engine. Turbo damage and leaking injectors are also an issue with this engine. The well-known 1.7 CDTi Turbo Diesel, brought in by Isuzu and further developed by Opel, is more robust and can achieve very high mileage with minimum maintenance. So this is a point to look at when buying a Corsa.
All petrol engines in the Corsa D are generally reliable and undemanding.
The successor Opel Corsa E entered the market in 2014 and was essentially an intensive facelift or revision of the previous model, which is also immediately noticeable. Like the four-cylinder petrol engines, the modern EcoFlex three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engines are virtually trouble-free.
The technical peculiarities and problems of Fiat's 1.3 CDTi diesel engine can also occur with the Corsa E. In general, the choice of materials and finish of this model sometimes seems substandard. Commonly heard is the high noise level inside the Corsa E, which can therefore be unpleasant.
Problems with petrol engines in the Opel Corsa (EcoFlex)
Basically, all petrol engines in the Opel Corsa are robust engines. As already mentioned, engines with a timing chain are a risk. Here, the chain may lengthen or the chain tensioner no longer does its job properly. Replacing a timing chain in the garage is an expensive business.
The EGR valve can also cause problems, just as you often have to reckon with non-working oil pressure sensors or leaking oil pressure switches. It is not the norm, but where a turbocharger is installed, it can also fail due to a lack of lubrication.
Problems with turbodiesel engines (CDTi) in the Opel Corsa
In addition to timing chain problems in the 1.3-litre CDTi Turbo Diesel engines, clogged EGR valves also occur in all other diesel engines. In both the 1.3 Fiat diesel engine and Isuzu's otherwise robust 1.7 turbo diesel, the pipes can leak.
The fragile diesel pumps on the 1.7 CDTi engine should also be mentioned. How long the turbocharger lasts can be influenced to a large extent. Letting the engine warm up properly can extend its life considerably.
Brake problems
It is an old Vauxhall condition that after braking, the brake pads get stuck (do not release from the brake disc) and therefore become too hot. Both the brake disc and the brake pads can burn out due to the resulting frictional heat and must then be replaced.
The wheel bearing may also be affected. The reason for this is, firstly, the dirtiness of the Opel brakes (regardless of whether it is a Bosch or Lucas brake system) and, secondly, overdue maintenance of the guide rails on the calipers. Unfortunately, annual maintenance often does not include comprehensive cleaning and lubrication. If you can, you should do it yourself or have it done during the garage maintenance.
Vulnerable gearbox in the Opel Corsa?
The Opel Corsa, regardless of whether it is a C, D or E model, also has the F17 and M32 transmissions installed. While GM's automatic transmissions, for example, are very durable, these two transmission models are known for their fragility. Loud noise development or gears that simply cannot be shifted anymore (second gear and reverse gear) are signs that a transmission needs replacement or repair.
Air conditioning problems
Whether in a Corsa C, D or E, air conditioning always requires careful and, above all, regular maintenance. Faulty or leaking condensers can lead to insufficient cooling. So keep a close eye on this!
Other points to watch out for
The built-in engines, mostly from General Motors, with 1.0, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.6, 1.7 or 1.8 litre displacement perform very reliably in their service in all Corsa models, from the base version to the sporty GTC and OPC, both as twinport petrol engines and as turbo-diesel in principle.
A regular oil change should always be carried out. This seems redundant to us but many people forget this.
Apart from the problems already mentioned, these are just the usual little things that occur with any car, regardless of make, and are usually caused by use. These would also be for the Corsa:
- Rusting
- Broken dampers or wheel bearings
- Turbocharger damage
- (Excessive) oil consumption
- Minor defects in electronics
- A (sometimes) rapid discharge of the car battery after about 50,000 kilometres
Since the Opel Corsa is a popular model and parts are widely available, the costs are often not too bad. Do you have experience with the Corsa yourself? Then leave your reaction below!
Mar 3, 2023 | Insurance |
We have already dedicated several articles in our blog to car insurance. You generally have a choice of 3 different coverages:
- WA (third-party liability)
- WA+ (limited casco)
- All-risk (extended hull)
The exact name depends on the insurer and so do the conditions. However, there are similarities between different providers.
Differences car insurance policies
- The Third-party insurance is the most basic car insurance. This insurance covers damage to others and provides assistance in case of damage. Additional cover varies by insurer.
- WA+ (limited casco) covers more damage. In addition to damage to others, consider fire and storm damage, burglary and theft, animal damage and window damage, for example.
- The name all risk says it all, all the risk will be covered. The main difference between all-risk car insurance and limited casco is that an insurer will also cover collision damage in case you are at fault in an accident. Vandalism will also be covered which is not the case with limited casco. But to be sure if this is also the case with your insurer of choice, we always refer you to the insurer for more info!
Frequently asked questions about car insurance
The differences between the insurances is in itself clear but still many people have additional questions. Below is a list of the most frequently asked questions. Remember that there are differences between insurers, so always contact the insurer of your choice for the current conditions and coverage. Being well informed is half the battle.
- What about claim-free years?
Generally speaking, for every year you are insured and have not had a claim you get a claim-free year. The more claim-free years you build up, the lower the premium will be. If you do get a claim, you can lose the claim-free years.
- If I have damage, can I have it repaired at any garage?
This varies by insurer; with some insurers, you have free choice. Other insurers require you to go to an affiliated garage. So be well informed about this! There are also additional insurances where you are free to choose the repair company so you can still choose which garage you go to. So find out more about this before you take out insurance.
- How much is the deductible?
This too varies from one insurer to another. How high the excess is has to do with several factors such as the driver's age and which insurance you choose. So get this straight before buying insurance.
- Is my car insured even if someone else drives my car?
Yes, car insurance actually applies to the car and not a person. If it happens that someone else is behind the wheel, the car is insured as usual. The owner of the car does remain liable for everything that happens to the car.
- I want to sell my car, what do I do about insurance?
Very simple, cancel your insurance! Report this to your insurer so that the insurance stops or is transferred to your new car.
What about travel insurance and the car?
Taking out travel insurance is a smart choice, after all, you never know what could happen during your road trip. Soon you'll be stuck with your car in the Pyrenees and need replacement transport. Of course, travel insurance (or car insurance) very many things that are not just about your car. But since we are a car blog, we are now just looking at what travel insurance can do for your vehicle.
Imagine you are cruising on holiday and suddenly you are hit from behind by an inattentive driver. It is not serious, you are not hurt yourself, but your car has to go to the garage. Especially if you drive a not so common make and model, this can take a long time in some countries. For example, if parts have to be ordered. Until the car is ready again, you have to arrange an overnight stay. That means: extra, unexpected costs. Or if it's even more serious: you do get injured and you can no longer drive and your car is totaled. In that case, you cannot travel back to the Netherlands yourself.
Let's not dwell on it too much, but of course this can happen to anyone. So if you want to go on holiday relaxed, it is definitely advisable to take out travel insurance. There are different packages and options per insurer, for instance choose extra coverage so that you and your car get back to the Netherlands safely. That return is called "repatriation". You can then simply go home and not pay for the costs. Especially when travelling far away, this is quite a relief. Be well informed by your insurer before you travel!
Mar 3, 2023 | Insurance |
Insure your car all-risk, limited-casualty or third-party? When you buy a car, you need to think about this carefully and weigh up the risks. In this article, we explain the general differences, we write "general" on purpose because different conditions apply between providers. There are also various additional coverages you can choose. In the end, of course, it is also a matter of feeling, if you don't want to run any risk then all-risk car insurance is obviously better for your peace of mind. In this article, a brief explanation of the car insurance and additional covers.
All-risk, limited casco or third-party
The exact name depends on the insurer and so do the conditions. However, there are similarities between different providers.
The Third-party insurance is the most basic insurance and covers damage to others and provides assistance in case of damage.- Limited casco covers more damage, besides damage to others, consider fire and explosion damage, burglary and theft, storm/hail and flood damage, animal damage and windscreen damage. This is a frequently chosen insurance policy.
- The name all risk says it, all risk will be covered. The main difference between all risk car insurance and limited casco is that an insurer will also cover collision damage in case you are at fault in an accident. Vandalism will also be covered which is not the case with limited casco. But to be sure if this is also the case with your insurer of choice, we always refer you to the insurer for more info!
What about additional coverages?
Most insaas also offer supplementary packages. coverages. Consider the following options:
- Roadside assistance insurance so you get replacement transport or a repair arranged in case of a breakdown. This is often valid throughout Europe.
- Passenger insurance that also covers your fellow passengers and belongings in case of injury and damage.
- Traffic legal assistance where you get legal and expert help in traffic disputes.
- Renewal of, for example, the new-value or purchase value. This is especially important when buying a new car, for example, if your new car is stolen in the first 3 years then the insurance will cover the purchase of a new equivalent car.
When do you choose which insurance?
First of all, everyone has to decide this for themselves, but there are of course guidelines. Most people insure a new car for the first six years all-risk. This is because the purchase value and daily value are high and repairing or replacing a damage or vehicle is expensive. After 6 years, it becomes a different story, because cars depreciate quickly. In that case, you can opt for limited hull insurance, for instance. Of course, make sure you have a buffer to be able to replace or repair the car in case of an accident due to fault.
As mentioned, all insurance types have different conditions, designations and additional cover. What suits you best can vary from one situation to another. Be well informed and get well insured on the road!
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