Dealing with the Vauxhall Astra Automatic Transmission Problems can be daunting for anyone who owns one. According to the AA, the Vauxhall Astra received a 4.5-star rating in reliability, and TopGear stated that it is a satisfying car to drive, but how does the transmission hold up in some of these Astra models?

So, what Vauxhall Astra Automatic Transmission Problems can you expect? After some extensive research and reading numerous reviews, the main failing component in the Vauxhall transmission system is the control unit, which controls which gear you need to select. It often requires a full replacement of the unit.

Unfortunately, the problems do not stop with the control unit and numerous accounts have been given of other failing components on the Astra automatic transmission. While it might be a reliable vehicle to drive for most people, some of these issues could dissuade buyers. Here, we will look at what some of my research has revealed about common Astra automatic transmission failures.

Top 4 Vauxhall Astra Automatic Transmission Problems & Solutions

Vauxhall is notorious for Easytronic transmission, which has been giving drivers some problems over the last few years. While I could not find any mass recalls, it is important to explore some of the possible issues before you buy one:

1. Gearbox Control Unit

Problem: The gearbox control unit directly communicates with the ECU of your vehicle. As you press the gas pedal, it indicates to the unit that the near needs to be changed. However, a damaged unit will fail to change the gear and you could notice a lack of power. It might even cause a grinding noise and increase revs.

Solution: The good news is that this component can be fixed instead of having to replace it. Most mechanics would rather have you replace it due to the additional cost, but a good mechanic could repair it. Since this is such an intricate component, your best bet would be to focus on having it fixed by a certified mechanic.

2. Worn Down Clutch

Problem: Since there is no clutch pedal in an automatic vehicle, you might be wondering how the clutch is worn down. However, automatic vehicles have a clutch, which is operated automatically to disconnect from the engine. After about 50,000 miles, there have been reports of gears not changing, which is due to the clutch failing to engage.

Solution: Unfortunately, a worn-out clutch would need to be replaced if you want to continue driving the vehicle. While you can buy your clutch and do it at home, it is much easier to have a mechanic assist you. Yes, this would be one of the more expensive problems, but the Vauxhall Corsa often has the same issue.

3. The Gearbox Sensor Is Broken

Problem: If you look at any Vauxhall model today, you will find that the sensor controlling the gearbox will often wear out. It is not yet clear why this happens, and Vauxhall attributes this to normal wear and tear. Once the sensor is broken, it does not allow the vehicle to know when to shift gears and you could end up in the wrong gear.

Solution: One of the biggest frustrations is finding eh sensor in your Vauxhall and you will need to make sure you disconnect it correctly due to the wiring from the ECU. The gearbox sensor is one of the cheaper parts of the gearbox you could replace.  It is best to have your vehicle inspected or you might end up with egregious damages to the clutch and the transmission solenoid.

4. Lack Of Transmission Fluid

Problem: While a lack of transmission fluid might seem like common sense for most people, others might not notice possible leaks in the engine or the ground. Every vehicle needs adequate transmission fluid to ensure functional movement of the gears. You could easily notice this with a jerking feeling or grinding noise coming from the gearbox.

Solution: Fortunately, you don’t need to have a mechanic or any Vauxhall specialist to fix this problem, unless you cannot detect the leak. Yes, you might want to fill up the transmission fluid, but it will continue seeping out. You should inspect all the hoses and connectors to find the leak and plug or replace the component.

5 Common Signs Of Impending Transmission Failures

The great news is that we have so much experience with failing transmissions. Car owners can look at the possible signs, which indicate an impending transmission failure. Here are some of the most tell-tale signs of an impending transmission failure:

1. Slipping Gears: Slipping gears is one of the most common signs and you often see the vehicle missing gears or slipping back to the previous gear while spiking the rev counter.
2. Leaking Fluid: Dealing with fluid leaking from your vehicle is always a bad sign. If this is transmission fluid, it would lack lubrication and wear out the component much faster.
3. Grinding/ Whining Noise: Every car makes natural sounds. However, unnatural whining or grinding noises coming from the gearbox often indicate a lack of lubrication or faulty gear.
4. Burning Smell: If you leave the issues for too long, the gearbox tends to generate heat, which could cause a burning sensation coming from the engine. Continuing to drive would significantly wear out the gearbox.
5. Refusal Tor Switch Gears: Much like slipping gears, your vehicle might refuse to go into gear. It is often due to a damaged solenoid and your car will start skipping gears. Unfortunately, this can put more wear on the engine. A lack of acceleration is also often present.

FAQ

How Reliable Is The Vauxhall Automatic Transmission?

In models like the Astra, the complaints are few and far between when considering the transmission. However, the Vauxhall Corsa is more prone to serious issues, and often jerks. The Astra is one of the better models, and you should not need to worry about constant gearbox problems.

What Is The Number One Cause Of Vauxhall Astra Transmission Problems?

The Vauxhall Astra has a reliable gearbox for the most part and the biggest issues are often a lack of maintenance. As these models rock up the workshop, you often find them low on transmission fluid or lacking behind on the service schedule. By keeping up regular maintenance, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your Astra gearbox.