Is the Vauxhall Grandland reliable? Honest answer.
Is the Vauxhall Grandland a reliable car? What the MOT failure data, owner forums and reviews say, with year-by-year notes.

TL;DR
The Vauxhall Grandland has a mixed reliability reputation, with 2020 and 2021 models generally performing better than earlier years. Common issues include electrical faults and suspension problems, particularly in models from 2017 to 2019. Potential buyers should consider specific model years for reliability.
MOT Pass Rates
The Vauxhall Grandland has a varied MOT pass rate. According to DVSA data, early models (2017-2019) had a significant number of failures related to electrical systems and suspension components. The 2020 and 2021 models show improved pass rates, indicating better reliability. Buyers should pay attention to the specific year of the model they are considering, as this can greatly influence the likelihood of passing the MOT.
Common Failure Modes
Common issues reported by owners include electrical faults, particularly with the infotainment system and dashboard displays. Suspension problems, especially in models from 2017 to 2019, have also been noted. These issues can lead to higher repair costs and may affect the vehicle’s overall reliability. Additionally, some owners have experienced problems with engine performance, particularly in the 1.2 turbo variants, which can raise concerns about long-term reliability.
Year-by-Year Notes
- 2017-2019: These early models often face electrical and suspension issues. Owners should be cautious and consider a thorough inspection before purchase. Reports suggest that these models may also have higher instances of oil leaks and low oil pressure, which can be costly to rectify.
- 2020-2021: These years show improved reliability. Reports suggest fewer common faults and better performance in MOT tests. Many owners have noted that these models have a more refined driving experience, which may contribute to their higher reliability ratings.
- 2022 and onwards: Newer models have not yet shown significant reliability data but are expected to maintain the upward trend. Early reviews indicate that improvements have been made in both build quality and technology, which may enhance overall reliability.
Owner Insights
Owner forums and reviews from sources like Parkers and Honest John highlight a mixed experience. While many appreciate the Grandland’s comfort and practicality, others have reported frustrations with recurring issues, particularly in earlier models. Owners on r/Vauxhall have shared experiences of dealing with electrical issues, including problems with dashboard warnings and infotainment glitches. Some users noted that their vehicles started experiencing significant problems after a year and a half of ownership, leading to concerns about long-term reliability.
In discussions on r/ElectricVehiclesUK, some owners of the electric variant of the Grandland expressed disappointment with the battery range, which often fell short of expectations. This has raised questions about the overall value of the electric model compared to its petrol counterparts. Furthermore, several owners have flagged issues with oil consumption in the 1.2 petrol engine models, suggesting that potential buyers should be aware of the importance of regular maintenance to avoid these problems.
What people are asking
Is the Vauxhall Grandland a reliable car?
Overall, the Vauxhall Grandland has a mixed reputation for reliability, with some model years performing better than others. The 2020 and 2021 models are generally seen as more reliable, while earlier models may have more common issues that could affect their long-term dependability.
What are common faults with Vauxhall?
Common faults across various Vauxhall models include electrical issues, suspension problems, and occasional engine performance concerns. Specific to the Grandland, owners have reported issues with the infotainment system and dashboard displays.
Why is Vauxhall Grandland so cheap?
The Vauxhall Grandland may be priced lower than competitors due to its mixed reliability ratings and the perception of value compared to other brands. This pricing strategy can attract budget-conscious buyers, but it is essential to consider the potential for higher maintenance costs.
Is the Opel Grandland a good car?
The Opel Grandland is similar to the Vauxhall Grandland and shares many characteristics, with reliability ratings that are comparable. Owners have noted that both vehicles offer good comfort and practicality, though they may experience similar issues.
Frequently asked questions
What are the common faults with the Vauxhall Grandland?
Common faults include issues with the electrical system, suspension components, and problems with the infotainment system.
Which model years are the most reliable?
The 2020 and 2021 models tend to have better reliability ratings compared to earlier versions.
What is the typical cost to fix common issues?
Fixing electrical faults can range from £100 to £500, while suspension repairs may cost between £200 and £800.
How does the Grandland perform on MOT tests?
The Grandland has a mixed MOT pass rate, with some years showing higher failure rates due to various common issues.
Is the Vauxhall Grandland a good family car?
Yes, it offers ample space and comfort, making it suitable for families.
Is the Vauxhall Grandland a reliable car?
Overall, the Vauxhall Grandland has a mixed reputation for reliability, with some model years performing better than others.
What are common faults with Vauxhall?
Common faults across various Vauxhall models include electrical issues, suspension problems, and occasional engine performance concerns.
Why is Vauxhall Grandland so cheap?
The Vauxhall Grandland may be priced lower than competitors due to its mixed reliability ratings and the perception of value compared to other brands.
Is the Opel Grandland a good car?
The Opel Grandland is similar to the Vauxhall Grandland and shares many characteristics, with reliability ratings that are comparable.
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Sources
DVSA MOT History, Honest John reliability index, Parkers owner reviews, WhatCar reliability survey, UK Government MOT failure data.