1.7 / 2.0 CDTI (diesel)
2009–2015 · diesel · 1956cc · 165hp
Engine codes: A17DTS, A20DTH, A20DTJ, A17DTR
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Opel Astra J 1.7 / 2.0 CDTI (diesel). Check this before you buy used.
The CDTI diesels are the high-mileage Astra J choice — the 1.7 CDTI (Fiat-GM-derived) and the stronger 2.0 CDTI (the same chain-driven GM diesel as the Insignia, the better-matched engine). Watch the 2.0's timing-chain wear (rattle), the swirl-flap/intake and EGR sooting, DPF on short trips, and injector wear. With disciplined oil and motorway use the 2.0 covers big distances; buy on a documented service record. The 2.0 is the one to have for regular long runs.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (A20DTH) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
2.0 CDTI chain/tensioner wear → rattle; labour-involved job.
Fix / Workaround: Strict oil; replace chain kit at rattle.
Repair cost: €500–€1300
Typically appears after: 150,000 km
DPF clogs on short trips; EGR/intake soot; injector wear.
Fix / Workaround: Motorway regens; clean EGR; injector test.
Repair cost: €250–€1100
Typically appears after: 140,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 160,000 km: Chain + DPF + injector window.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐2.0 CDTI: cold-start chain rattle check
- ☐DPF + EGR history (city cars)
- ☐2.0 better-matched than 1.7
Frequently asked questions
Is the Opel Astra J 1.7 / 2.0 CDTI (diesel) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The CDTI diesels are the high-mileage Astra J choice — the 1.7 CDTI (Fiat-GM-derived) and the stronger 2.0 CDTI (the same chain-driven GM diesel as the Insignia, the better-matched engine). Watch the 2.0's timing-chain wear (rattle), the swirl-flap/intake and EGR sooting, DPF on short trips, and injector wear. With disciplined oil and motorway use the 2.0 covers big distances; buy on a documented service record. The 2.0 is the one to have for regular long runs.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Opel Astra J 1.7 / 2.0 CDTI (diesel)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing chain wear (2.0 CDTI), DPF / EGR / injectors.
Is a used Opel Astra J 1.7 / 2.0 CDTI (diesel) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.