The Best Years For Opel Mariva And Some To Avoid

The Opel Meriva, a small MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), offered practicality and versatility for families seeking a compact and affordable car. Understanding the different model years and their associated strengths and weaknesses is crucial when considering purchasing a used Meriva. This guide provides a detailed overview to help you identify the best and worst years of the Opel Meriva.

Opel Meriva Model Years: A Quick Overview

Detailed Explanations:

Meriva A (2003-2010):

The first generation Opel Meriva, often referred to as the Meriva A, was a significant step for Opel in the compact MPV segment. Its FlexSpace seating system, allowing for various seating configurations, was a major selling point. The available engine options ranged from economical petrol engines to torquey diesels, catering to different driving needs. However, early production years faced certain challenges.

Spacious Interior: The Meriva A excelled in utilizing its compact footprint to offer a surprisingly spacious interior. This made it a practical choice for families needing room for passengers and cargo. The high roofline contributed to ample headroom, enhancing passenger comfort.

FlexSpace Seating System: The FlexSpace system was a standout feature, allowing the rear seats to be individually folded or slid to create more legroom or luggage space. This adaptability made the Meriva A highly versatile for various transportation needs.

Good Fuel Economy (depending on engine): Certain engine options, particularly the smaller petrol and diesel engines, offered respectable fuel economy, making the Meriva A an economical choice for daily commuting and longer journeys.

Generally Affordable: As a used car, the Meriva A is generally affordable, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical family vehicle.

Early models (2003-2005) prone to electrical issues: Early models of the Meriva A were reported to have electrical issues, ranging from faulty sensors to problems with the central locking system. These issues can be frustrating and potentially costly to repair.

Some engine options (e.g., 1.6 Easytronic) known for reliability problems: The 1.6-liter petrol engine coupled with the Easytronic automated manual transmission was known for reliability issues. The Easytronic transmission, in particular, could suffer from jerky shifts and premature wear.

Rust in certain areas (especially wheel arches): Rust was a common issue, especially in areas prone to moisture and road salt exposure, such as the wheel arches and underbody. Thorough inspection for rust is crucial before purchasing a Meriva A.

Meriva B (2010-2017):

The second generation Opel Meriva, the Meriva B, represented a significant upgrade over its predecessor. It featured a more modern design, improved build quality, and a wider range of engine options. The rear-hinged rear doors, marketed as "FlexDoors," were a unique and innovative feature designed to improve access to the rear seats.

Improved styling and build quality: The Meriva B boasted a more contemporary and refined design compared to the Meriva A. The build quality was also improved, resulting in a more solid and durable feel.

More refined driving experience: The Meriva B offered a more refined driving experience with improved handling and a quieter cabin. The suspension was tuned for greater comfort and stability.

Enhanced safety features: The Meriva B incorporated enhanced safety features, including electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, and multiple airbags, contributing to improved occupant protection.

Wider range of engine options: The Meriva B offered a wider range of engine options, including more powerful petrol and diesel engines, catering to different performance preferences.

Some reports of diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues on diesel models: Diesel models of the Meriva B were reported to experience issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF). DPFs can become clogged over time, especially with short journeys, leading to reduced performance and increased fuel consumption.

Certain models (especially with the 1.4 Turbo engine) can suffer from oil consumption: Some models, particularly those equipped with the 1.4 Turbo petrol engine, were reported to suffer from excessive oil consumption. This issue can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.

Higher price point compared to Meriva A: The Meriva B generally commanded a higher price point compared to the Meriva A, reflecting its improved features and build quality.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Which Opel Meriva model year is the most reliable? The Meriva B (2010-2017) is generally considered more reliable than the Meriva A (2003-2010) due to its improved build quality and more modern engineering. However, specific engine choices and maintenance history play a crucial role.

• Are Opel Merivas expensive to maintain? Maintenance costs for Opel Merivas are generally considered average compared to other cars in its class. However, potential issues like DPF clogging or oil consumption in specific models can lead to higher repair bills.

• Is the Easytronic transmission in the Meriva A reliable? The Easytronic automated manual transmission in the Meriva A is known for reliability problems, including jerky shifts and premature wear. Consider models with a manual transmission for greater reliability.

• Does the Opel Meriva have rust issues? The Meriva A is prone to rust, especially in the wheel arches and underbody. Thoroughly inspect for rust before purchasing. The Meriva B is less susceptible to rust due to improved corrosion protection.

• Is the Opel Meriva a good car for families? Yes, the Opel Meriva is a good car for families due to its spacious interior, versatile seating configurations (FlexSpace), and practicality. However, consider the potential reliability issues of specific models and engine options.

• What should I look for when buying a used Opel Meriva? When buying a used Opel Meriva, thoroughly inspect the car for rust, check the service history for regular maintenance, and test drive the car to assess engine performance and transmission smoothness. Pay particular attention to potential issues like DPF clogging or oil consumption.

Conclusion:

Choosing the best Opel Meriva model year depends on your budget and priorities. The Meriva B (2010-2017) offers improved styling, build quality, and features, but comes at a higher price. The Meriva A (2003-2010) is more affordable, but requires careful inspection for rust and potential electrical or engine issues. Always prioritize a well-maintained car with a comprehensive service history, regardless of the model year.