Vauxhall Corsa [years to avoid] VAUXHALL Corsa Mk4 (E) Hatchback (X15) (08.2014 - ...)

On the Vauxhall Corsa, you should pay particular attention to the following models:
Corsa D (2006-2014):
- Frequent problems with the timing chain (1.2/1.4 petrol engines).
- Electrical glitches and problems with the electronic control unit are possible.
Corsa E (2014-2019):
- Many problems are similar to those of the Corsa D.
- There have been serious recall campaigns (steering rack, handbrake).
Always perform a full diagnostic check and check the service history before purchasing.

Alright, mate, thinking about a Vauxhall Corsa is like deciding whether you want the “British lassi” for your daily drive—could go smooth, could go sideways. Not all Corsas are created equal, and some years are best left to history books (or the scrapyard, if we're honest).

First up, 2009 to 2010 Corsas—major handbrake issues! Pull up at the shops, and your Corsa might just roll off for a cheeky solo adventure. Also, Corsas built August 2016 to Jan 2017 have more handbrake gremlins, so double-check for recall work (or park on flat ground for good vibes). Some folks report engine problems and weird disengaging handbrakes in 2010 to 2017 models—not exactly ideal if you like stopping at traffic lights without drama.

If you’re eyeing any Corsa between 2007–2014 (that’s Corsa D), get ready for electrical gremlins, noisy timing chains, poor central locking, and that “Easytronic” semi-auto gearbox that might make each drive unpredictably exciting (not the kind of excitement you want, trust me). Vauxhall's "Easytronic" is honestly like playing gearbox Bingo—will it shift, will it shudder, will it turn into a mobile disco?

Also, the newer ones (post-2014) aren’t exactly bullet-proof either. Some 2014–2019 models have steering, handbrake, and even curtain airbag problems. A few unlucky ones might surprise you with bonus high NOx emissions—so if you want to keep your MOT man happy, just give those a swerve.

If you want drama-free driving (well, as drama-free as possible for a Corsa), aim for ones with solid service history and check if recalls are dealt with. Unless you like spontaneous handbrake failures or “guess the warning light” games, avoid the years mentioned above!

Good luck, and remember: only park a dodgy Corsa outside your mate’s house, so you can blame them if it rolls away.