1.3 / 1.7 CDTI (diesel)
2010–2017 · diesel · 1686cc · 130hp
Engine codes: A13DTE, A17DTS, SDE
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Opel Meriva B 1.3 / 1.7 CDTI (diesel). Check this before you buy used.
The CDTI diesels — the small 1.3 (the GM-Fiat 'SDE', shared with Fiat/Suzuki) and the torquier 1.7 (Fiat-GM-derived) — are economical and the 1.7 is the better-matched engine for the practical MPV. Standard modern-diesel cautions: DPF clogging on short trips, EGR sooting and injector wear. With disciplined oil and some motorway running they're dependable; the 1.3 is frugal but works hard, the 1.7 is the one for regular family use. Buy on oil and DPF history.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (A17DTS) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
DPF clogs and EGR soots on urban use.
Fix / Workaround: Motorway regens; clean/replace EGR + DPF.
Repair cost: €250–€1100
Typically appears after: 120,000 km
Injectors wear with mileage.
Fix / Workaround: Injector test; recon/replace.
Repair cost: €200–€900
Typically appears after: 150,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 150,000 km: DPF + injector window.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Oil + DPF history
- ☐1.7 better-matched than 1.3
- ☐1.3 SDE shared with Fiat/Suzuki
Frequently asked questions
Is the Opel Meriva B 1.3 / 1.7 CDTI (diesel) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The CDTI diesels — the small 1.3 (the GM-Fiat 'SDE', shared with Fiat/Suzuki) and the torquier 1.7 (Fiat-GM-derived) — are economical and the 1.7 is the better-matched engine for the practical MPV. Standard modern-diesel cautions: DPF clogging on short trips, EGR sooting and injector wear. With disciplined oil and some motorway running they're dependable; the 1.3 is frugal but works hard, the 1.7 is the one for regular family use. Buy on oil and DPF history.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Opel Meriva B 1.3 / 1.7 CDTI (diesel)?
The most commonly reported problems: DPF / EGR (short trips), Injector wear.
Is a used Opel Meriva B 1.3 / 1.7 CDTI (diesel) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.