Opel Cascada
Powerful 2.0-litre diesel with good long-distance characteristics, but characteristic weak points in the oil supply and emissions system. The oil suction pipe seal is the best-known and sometimes critical issue. With regular maintenance and primarily motorway use a reliable unit – short-trip use should be avoided due to DPF problems.
Cascada diesel
121 kW diesel in the convertible – solid, but not typical convertible feel.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The seal on the oil suction pipe to the oil pump hardens over time and draws in false air. This results in low oil pressure which causes the engine to shut down. Affects nearly all A20DTH at higher mileage.
Symptoms: Warning 'Oil pressure low — switch off engine' especially on cold start or after long standstill, engine shutdown by protection system.
The EGR valve and intake manifold carbon up with typical diesel use on frequent short trips. After the emissions scandal software update the problem worsens due to increased EGR rate.
Symptoms: Power loss, misfires at mid rpm, increased fuel consumption, black smoke on acceleration, engine management light.
With frequent short-trip driving the DPF cannot complete full regeneration. The filter permanently clogs and must be cleaned or replaced.
Symptoms: Warning 'Particulate filter full', persistent warning despite motorway driving, increased fuel consumption, power loss.
The KBA ordered a mandatory recall in 2020: the A20DTH contained an illegal defeat device. Software update required. After the update, increased EGR carbon deposits may occur.
Vehicle Weaknesses 13
M32 six-speed gearbox: premature bearing wear. 2nd gear and reverse become stiff, then impossible to engage.
The soft top shows chafing at the fold lines with frequent use, leading to splits. Cable breaks disrupt the roof control.
The rear window detaches from the fabric at the lower left corner. Full hood replacement costs around €3,000.
Blocked water drains in the hood compartment and A-pillar lead to water ingress. Regular cleaning is necessary.
From around 100,000 km the suspension and anti-roll bar bushings show significant wear.
The roof area water drains on the Cascada become blocked with leaves and debris. Water backs up and enters the rear footwell, which can cause moisture damage to the carpet and electronics.
The ride-height sensor for the bi-xenon headlights fails. Incorrect headlight aim and MOT failures result.
The heating cables in the Cascada's seat heating mats break at the bend points, causing the seat heating to switch itself off after a few seconds. Repair requires seat removal.
Brake pads and discs on the Cascada wear significantly faster than comparable vehicles. The increased weight of the convertible body accelerates wear.
The electric power steering switches to a reduced assist mode in energy-saving mode with winter tyres fitted. A software update at the dealer fixes the problem.
Rainwater is directed through channels into the hollow sills. Rubber plugs become blocked, water accumulates, and promotes corrosion from inside. Affected sills rust through.
On the 1.6 turbo, the radiator fan develops problems: either it continues to run after the engine is switched off or it fails to start when needed. Relay / control unit as the cause.
The door check straps are undersized for the heavier convertible door weight. From as early as 20,000 km the door no longer holds in the first detent position.
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