Opel Astra H

The German corporation produced the Opel Astra 3rd generation with the A04 body style from 2004 to 2014. Assembly locations included Germany, England, Belgium, as well as St. Petersburg and Kaliningrad. This particular model shared its foundation with the GM T-body platform, akin to the compact van Opel Zafira B. Within the Astra family, we find the T92 (1991 - 1998), T98 (1998 - 2009), and P10 (2009 - 2018) models.

The car was equipped with engines:

Opel Astra H

Common Features
Engine Power125 HP
Torque170 NM
Acceleration to 100 km/h10.8 seconds
Max speed198 km/h
City consumption10.2 liters
Combustion on the road6.2 liters
Mixed expenditure7.8 liters
Fuel tank capacity52 liters
Loaded weight1230 kg
Full weight1705 kg
Load475 kg
Trunk volume380 (1295) liters
Overall dimensions: 3-door, 5-door hatchback
Overall Length4249 / 4290 mm *
Width1753 (2032) mm
Height1460 / 1435 mm *
Distance axis2614 mm
Front belt circle1488 mm
Rear wheels1488 mm
Overall ground clearance130 / 165 mm *
Min. turning radius5.6 m
Number of doors | seats3, 5 | 5
Tire size195/65 R15
General dimensions: sedan, station wagon
Overall Length4618 / 4515 mm *
Width1754 (2032) mm
Height1458 / 1500 mm *
Distance axis2703 mm
Front belt circle1488 mm
Rear wheels1488 mm
Overall ground clearance130 mm
Min. turning radius5.6 / 5.75 m *
Number of doors | seats4, 5 | 5
Tire size195/65 R15
General dimensions
Overall Length4476 mm
Width1831 mm
Height1414 mm
Distance axis2614 mm
Front belt circle1488 mm
Rear wheels1488 / 1481 mm
Overall ground clearance165 mm mm
Min. turning radius5.75 m
Number of doors | seats2 | 4
Tire size205/55 R16

Overview and Common Failures

The Opel Astra H, produced from 2004 to 2014, underwent significant changes, offering various body styles and engine options.

Pre-Facelift Models (2004-2007):

Front-Wheel-Drive Versions:

Petrol Engines:

  • 1.4L Z14XEP, 90 hp, 125 Nm, 5-speed manual (F13)
  • 1.6L Z16XEP, 105 hp, 150 Nm, 5-speed manual (F17)
  • 1.8L Z18XE, 125 hp, 170 Nm, 5-speed manual (F17) or 4-speed automatic (AF17)
  • 2.0L Z20LEL, 170 hp, 250 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)
  • 2.0L Z20LER, 200 hp, 262 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)

Diesel Engines:

  • 1.7L Z17DTL, 80 hp, 170 Nm, 5-speed manual (F17+)
  • 1.7L Z17DTH, 101 hp, 240 Nm, 5-speed manual (F23)
  • 1.9L Z19DTJ, 120 hp, 280 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)
  • 1.9L Z19DTH, 150 hp, 320 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)¹

Post-2005 Diesel Engine Lineup:

  • 1.3L Z13DTH, 90 hp, 200 Nm, 6-speed manual (M20) or semi-automatic (Easytronic)
  • 1.9L Z19DTL, 100 hp, 260 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)
  • 1.9L Z19DT, 120 hp, 280 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32) or 6-speed automatic (AF40)
  • 1.9L Z19DTH, 150 hp, 320 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)

High-Performance Version (OPC):

  • 2.0L Turbo Z20LEH

Facelift Models (2007-2014):

The updated Astra H, from 2007, not only had a refreshed look but also featured changes in its engine lineup.

Petrol Engines:

  • 1.4L Z14XEP, 90 hp, 125 Nm, 5-speed manual (F13)
  • 1.6L Z16XER, 115 hp, 155 Nm, 5-speed manual (F17) or semi-automatic (Easytronic)
  • 1.6L Z16LET, 179 hp, 230 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)
  • 1.8L Z18XER, 140 hp, 175 Nm, 5-speed manual (F17) or 4-speed automatic (AF17)
  • 2.0L Z20LER, 200 hp, 262 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)

Diesel Engines:

  • 1.3L Z13DTH, 90 hp, 200 Nm, 6-speed manual (M20) or semi-automatic (Easytronic)
  • 1.7L Z17DTJ, 110 hp, 260 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)
  • 1.7L Z17DTR, 125 hp, 280 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)
  • 1.9L Z19DTL, 100 hp, 260 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)
  • 1.9L Z19DT, 120 hp, 280 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32) or 6-speed automatic (AF40)
  • 1.9L Z19DTH, 150 hp, 320 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)

Euro 5 Diesel Engines (From 2009):

  • 1.7L A17DTJ, 110 hp, 260 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)
  • 1.7L A17DTR, 125 hp, 280 Nm, 6-speed manual (M32)

The Astra H remained a versatile and popular model, offering various body styles and engine choices to suit diverse preferences.

Review

The Opel Astra H, despite having a robust body with a high safety rating, encounters some issues. For instance, while corrosion isn't a severe problem, the paint layer proves vulnerable to stones, leading to chipping and color loss. Regular drainage of water from cavities in the thresholds can help prevent corrosion.

Imperfections in details such as cloudy headlights, detached bumpers, and loose side mirrors require attention and timely repairs. Additionally, door problems, like sagging, necessitate adjustments or hinge replacements.

The CIM module, responsible for steering wheel controls, is prone to wear, but repairs typically involve simple soldering work. The recirculation flap may break, but there's a possibility of restoration, especially by using a voltage limiter to prevent excess pressure on the mechanism.

Furthermore, for programming and servicing Opel Astra H electronic blocks, a 4-digit CarPass password is required, obtainable from the dealer using the VIN. Despite some drawbacks, regular maintenance and careful attention to details will help maintain the reliability and durability of this car.