Opel Zafira A
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
192–241 PS
2.0L Turbo OPC Benzin
Zafira OPC
Fun to Drive!Generations
Engine Overview
The Opel Zafira A is available with 6 engine variants — from 82 to 241 hp. 2 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
The Opel 2.0L DTI (Diesel, 82–101 PS) comes with 2 different engines: Y20DTH (2000–2005, Be Careful) and Y20DTH (2000–2005, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 2.0L DTI!
The Opel 2.2L DTI (Diesel, 125 PS) has the Y22DTR (2.2L DTI) — rated: "Be Careful", 8 known weaknesses.
The Opel 1.6L 16V (Petrol, 101–105 PS) has the Z16XE (1.6L 16V) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.
The Opel 1.8L 16V (Petrol, 116–125 PS) comes with 2 different engines: Z18XE (2000–2005, Be Careful) and Z18XE (2000–2005, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 1.8L 16V!
The Opel 2.0L Turbo OPC (Petrol, 192 PS) has the Z20LEH (2.0L Turbo OPC) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.
The Opel 2.2L 16V (Petrol, 147–150 PS) has the Z22SE (2.2L 16V) — rated: "Be Careful", 7 known weaknesses.
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Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Front subframe rusted through The front subframe rusts through at weld seams and control arm mounts. Engine undershield retains moisture, accelerating corrosion. In advanced stages the vehicle is no longer MOT-worthy. Symptoms: Rust visible on front axle, MOT rejection due to through-rusted axle mounts, vehicle sits unevenly. from 150,000 km | Medium |
Alternatives
Known Problems and Issues
A total of 46 weaknesses have been documented for the Opel Zafira A (2000–2005) — 33 engine-related and 13 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Rust, Suspension, Brakes, Electronics.
Zafira (Y20DTH, 2000–2005) — Be Careful: Injectors leaking, Dual mass flywheel faulty, Variable turbine geometry sticking. Power: 82–86 PS.
Zafira (Y20DTH, 2000–2005) — Be Careful: Injectors leaking, Dual mass flywheel faulty, Variable turbine geometry sticking. Power: 101 PS.
Zafira (Y22DTR, 2001–2005) — Be Careful: VP44 injection pump faulty, VP44 injection pump control unit faulty, VTG turbocharger sticking. Power: 125 PS.
Zafira (Z16XE, 2000–2005) — Be Careful: Timing belt breaks → engine damage, EGR valve coked up, Electronic throttle body faulty. Power: 101–105 PS.
Zafira (Z18XE, 2000–2005) — Be Careful: Crankshaft sensor: failure from oil wetting, Cylinder head: hairline crack and coolant loss, Valve stem seals: increased oil consumption. Power: 116 PS.
Zafira (Z18XE, 2000–2005) — Be Careful: Crankshaft sensor: failure from oil wetting, Cylinder head: hairline crack and coolant loss, Valve stem seals: increased oil consumption. Power: 125 PS.
Zafira (Z22SE, 2001–2005) — Be Careful: Timing chain guide rail bolt breaks, Secondary chain balance shaft breaks, Oil consumption from worn piston rings. Power: 147–150 PS.
Zafira (Z20LEH, 2002–2005) — Be Careful: Turbocharger bearing failure, Piston rings worn, Clutch prematurely worn. Power: 192 PS.
What to watch out for with the Opel Zafira? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Opel Zafira A have? +
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee