EngineHigh
1.2 and 1.4 petrol timing chain rattle and stretch
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Cold start and listen for rattle for the first few seconds
VA
2013–2019 Vauxhall Adam · common problems & known faults
A fashion-led city car built on Corsa underpinnings, popular with first-time buyers, so budget cars often show neglected servicing and worn small-engine components.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2013–2019 Vauxhall Adam are 1.2 and 1.4 petrol timing chain rattle and stretch, Coolant leaks from the water pump housing, risking overheating and potential head gasket failure and Intellilink infotainment freezing or losing Bluetooth pairing. 2 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Vauxhall Adam.
5.5/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 3
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Vauxhall Adam problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
ElectricalMedium
Intellilink infotainment freezing or losing Bluetooth pairing
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Cycle through radio, phone and sat nav functions repeatedly
SuspensionMedium
Front strut top mount knocking over bumps
- Typically appears
- 50,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Turn the wheel lock to lock while stationary and listen for clunks
BodyworkLow
Two-tone roof paint bubbling and lacquer peel
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect roof edges and pillars closely in bright light
InteriorLow
Door handle and window switch trim wearing shiny or loose
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Operate every window switch and door handle for smooth action
EngineMedium
Loud whistling noise at idle and rough running due to a split PCV membrane inside the rocker cover.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Start the engine and listen for a high-pitched whistle. Try to remove the oil filler cap while idling; if there is heavy vacuum resistance and the noise stops when removed, the PCV has failed.
Cooling SystemHigh
Coolant leaks from the water pump housing, risking overheating and potential head gasket failure.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-60,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Check the coolant expansion tank level. Shine a torch down the left side of the engine block (auxiliary belt side) to look for dried, crusty pink deposits or wet coolant pooling on the undertray.
Climate ControlLow
Interior heater blower fan only operates on the highest speed setting due to a blown resistor pack.
- Typically appears
- 4-6 years
- What to inspect
- Turn the ignition on and cycle the interior fan dial through speeds 1, 2, 3, and 4. Ensure air blows consistently on all individual settings, not just the maximum setting.
Inspecting a Vauxhall Adam?
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Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is the Adam reliable?
Mechanically it mirrors the Corsa D/E and is generally sound if serviced, but chain wear needs checking.
What should I listen for on start-up?
A rattly cold start pointing to timing chain wear is the main engine concern.
Are parts expensive?
No, parts share heavily with the Corsa so servicing and repairs are cheap.
Are there any known issues with the six-speed manual gearbox?
Yes, models fitted with the six-speed M32 gearbox, such as the 1.4 Turbo and Adam S, are prone to premature bearing wear. During a test drive, listen for a distinct whining noise in fifth and sixth gears, and watch for the gear stick twitching backwards when lifting off the throttle.
What should I know about the 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo engine?
The 1.0-litre SIDI turbo is generally robust but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals to protect the turbocharger and variable valve timing solenoids. Check the service history for annual or 10,000-mile oil changes using the correct Dexos 1 Gen 2 specification oil to prevent low-speed pre-ignition damage.
Why is the tyre pressure monitoring system warning light common on forecourt cars?
The Adam uses active TPMS sensors in each wheel with integrated batteries lasting around five to seven years. On older models, these batteries deplete, triggering a dashboard warning. Additionally, the metal valve stems are prone to galvanic corrosion in UK winter conditions, often snapping when attempting to inflate the tyres.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.