1.7 CDTi (Isuzu-based)
2012–2019 · diesel · 1686cc · 130hp
Engine codes: A13DTE, A17DTR, A17DTS, B16DTH, SDE, Z17DTR
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Opel Mokka 1.7 CDTi (Isuzu-based). 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 (A13DTE) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
Turbo wears at higher mileage (power loss, smoke, whistle).
Fix / Workaround: Rebuild/replace turbo; check oil feed.
Repair cost: €400–€1000
Typically appears after: 120,000 km
EGR clogs; DPF blocks on short trips.
Fix / Workaround: Clean EGR; motorway runs.
Repair cost: €150–€700
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
Injector wear; emissions-hardware attention (esp. 1.6 CDTI).
Fix / Workaround: Injector test; diagnose emissions faults.
Repair cost: €200–€1200
Typically appears after: 150,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 120,000 km: Turbo wear window.
After 150,000 km: DPF + injector window.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Check turbo on test drive
- ☐EGR/DPF history
- ☐The robust Corsa diesel (vs 1.3)
- ☐Oil + DPF history
- ☐1.7 better-matched than 1.3
- ☐1.3 SDE shared with Fiat/Suzuki
- ☐AWD option a plus
- ☐Injector/emissions checks (city cars)
Frequently asked questions
Is the Opel Mokka 1.7 CDTi (Isuzu-based) 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 Mokka 1.7 CDTi (Isuzu-based)?
The most commonly reported problems: Turbocharger wear, EGR / DPF clogging, DPF / EGR (short trips), Injector wear, Injector / emissions hardware.
Is a used Opel Mokka 1.7 CDTi (Isuzu-based) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.