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Model reliability

Vauxhall Vivaro reliability

The Vauxhall Vivaro fails its MOT more often than most cars 6 to 10 years old: 40.3% of 78,550 tests failed in 2023, against 24.4% on average.

Up to 5 years old
26.7% failed their MOT
Worse than most
From 17,874 MOT tests of Vauxhall Vivaros this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 6× as oftenExhaust emissions4.9% vs 0.8%Fix about £150
Fails 2× as oftenMechanical brake components4.2% vs 1.8%
Fails 19× as oftenAnti-roll bars3.7% vs 0.2%
Fails 15× as oftenShock absorbers3% vs 0.2%Fix about £200
Advised 40% more oftenMechanical brake components17% vs 12.1%
Advised 5× as oftenShock absorbers5.9% vs 1.3%Fix about £200
Advised 17× as oftenAnti-roll bars5.2% vs 0.3%
Advised 3× as oftenCondition of glass4.6% vs 1.5%
6 to 10 years old
40.3% failed their MOT
Worse than most
From 78,550 MOT tests of Vauxhall Vivaros this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 11× as oftenSteering linkage components12.1% vs 1.1%
Fails 8× as oftenAnti-roll bars7.7% vs 1%
Fails 3× as oftenSprings6.2% vs 2.4%Fix about £150
Fails 75% more oftenMechanical brake components4.9% vs 2.8%
Advised 6× as oftenAnti-roll bars8.7% vs 1.5%
Advised 3× as oftenShock absorbers7.5% vs 3%Fix about £200
Advised 5× as oftenSteering linkage components6.6% vs 1.3%
Advised 3× as oftenCondition of glass5.6% vs 2.1%
Over 10 years old
53.1% failed their MOT
Worse than most
From 74,485 MOT tests of Vauxhall Vivaros this age.
Where it does worse than other cars this age
Fails 3× as oftenBrake performance14.7% vs 5.8%
Fails 5× as oftenSteering linkage components12.4% vs 2.4%
Fails 2× as oftenSuspension arms12% vs 5.1%
Fails 83% more oftenPosition lamps9.7% vs 5.3%Fix about £30
Advised 43% more oftenMechanical brake components24.2% vs 16.9%
Advised 2× as oftenRigid brake pipes20.6% vs 8.3%Fix about £120
Advised 86% more oftenFluid leaks18.8% vs 10.1%
Advised 72% more oftenAnti-roll bars10.3% vs 6%
Safety recalls

47 DVSA recalls for the Vauxhall Vivaro

Most cover a batch of cars built in a set period, and dealers fix them free. Sweep’s check shows the recalls for a car’s age and whether the DVSA has one outstanding.

R/2026/10713 Mar 2026Built 2025–2026Water pump pulley

On affected vehicles due to a production nonconformity the water pump may malfunction which may cause a loss of engine power and result in the engine shutting down.

Fix: Replace the water pump.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 2,064 vehicles

R/2026/01921 Jan 2026Built 2025Vauxhall Cross carline Fuel Injection common rail

On affected vehicles a non-conformity issue with the fuel injection common rail may lead to a loosening of the nut and a potential fuel leak.

Fix: Check the fuel injection common rail and if necessary replace the rail and high-pressure fuel pipes.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 419 vehicles

R/2026/00719 Dec 2025Built 2023–2025Vauxhall Vivaro (K0) Combo (K9) IVI software via OTA update.

Affected vehicle may face a black screen on the Instrument Panel Cluster with several functions not available to view.

Fix: Update the In-Vehicle-Infotainment software via Over-the-Air.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 9,008 vehicles

R/2025/49812 Nov 2025Built 2022–2024Vauxhall Vivaro (K0) Low In-use performance ratio – ECM software.

On affected vehicles there is an issue with the Engine Control Module (ECM) calibration which may lead to non-compliance with regulatory emission requirements.

Fix: Update the ECM calibration.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 4,104 vehicles

R/2025/41229 Sept 2025Built 2024Vauxhall Vivaro Rear Brake Discs

Affected vehicles may have been equipped with rear brake discs out of specification. These brake discs have insufficient contact with the wheel hub resulting in abnormal stress concentration.

Fix: Check the rear brake discs and replace them and the brake pads if necessary.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 5 vehicles

R/2025/34218 Aug 2025Built 2019–2021Emission recall – On Board Diagnostics

Vehicles may be affected by incorrect performance of the On-Board-Diagnostics related to Selective Catalytic Reduction system and/or Diesel Particle Filter. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may not illuminate in the event of a malfunction and therefore does not comply with emission regulations.

Fix: Update the Engine Control Unit software to ensure compliance to regulations.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 10,083 vehicles

R/2025/3091 Aug 2025Built 2020–2022Vauxhall Vivaro (K0) Lower Control Arm Bushing.

On affected vehicles the bolts on the front wishbone may break due to corrosion.

Fix: Replace the bolts and bushings on both sides of the front wishbone.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 29,927 vehicles

R/2025/2453 Jul 2025Built 2018–2022Vauxhall DV5R Engines Camshaft Chain.

Vehicles may be affected by premature wearing of the camshaft drive chain leading to abnormal noise or to a breakage of the chain in the worst case.

Fix: Update the software to improve oil pressure and reduce wear. Check the engine noise and replace the chain if required. If no problem found change the oil to one with higher viscosity and special anti-wear additives.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 649 vehicles

R/2025/11924 Mar 2025Built 2022–2023Traction Battery software

Affected vehicles may face an error in the Battery Monitoring Unit software.

Fix: Update the Battery Monitoring Unit software.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 559 vehicles

R/2024/46620 Nov 2024Built 2024Vauxhall Vivaro TBMU software

On affected vehicles they may have been supplied with incorrect software in the Traction Battery Management Unit TBMU that can lead to a non-compliance with regulatory requirements.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the TBMU software will be updated to meet regulatory requirements.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 30 vehicles

R/2024/4554 Nov 2024Built 2024Vauxhall Vivaro K0 Seat Fixation

On affected vehicles there may be insufficient fixing on the 1st and/or 2nd row of seats that could potentially allow seat movement in the event of a collision

Fix: On the affected vehicles seat fixings will be reworked

Recalled models: VIVARO · 2,503 vehicles

R/2024/41823 Oct 2024Built 2024Vauxhall Vivaro (K0) Display screws missing.

On affected vehicles the radio display fixing screws may be missing allowing a potential detachment of the display during a collision.

Fix: On the affected vehicles the fixings will be checked and fitted if necessary.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 7,931 vehicles

R/2024/3135 Aug 2024Built 2024Vauxhall Vivaro (K0) Rear Springs

Affected vehicles may have been equipped with the incorrect rear springs which can result in impaired driving behaviour when fully loaded or a risk of rear spring detachment in a worst-case scenario when empty.

Fix: Replace both rear springs.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 1,230 vehicles

R/2024/2157 May 2024Built 2023–2024Vauxhall Vivaro – Ground Connections

On affected vehicles there could be a loss of ground connections for some electrical harnesses which could result in a worst-case scenario in the loss of several vehicle functions with safety impacts and a risk of erratic behaviour of the vehicle.

Fix: Check and re-tighten the ground connections.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 24 vehicles

R/2023/14510 May 2023Built 2019–2020Affected vehicles may be equipped with a B-Pillar manufacturer label with incorrect weight data which can lead to a non-conformity to regulatory requirements.

Affected vehicles may be equipped with a B-Pillar manufacturer label with incorrect weight data which can lead to a non-conformity to regulatory requirements.

Fix: Replace the manufacturer label with one that has correct load values.

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 6,506 vehicles

R/2023/07823 Mar 2023Built 2022Affected vehicles may have a steering tie rod/track rod end nut that has not been tightened to the correct torque.

Affected vehicles may have a steering tie rod/track rod end nut that has not been tightened to the correct torque.

Fix: Replace the steering tie rod/track rod end nut and tighten to the correct torque.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 6 vehicles

R/2022/33221 Nov 2022Built 2020–2022Some vehicles may have been equipped with an incorrectly positioned fuel pipe.

Some vehicles may have been equipped with an incorrectly positioned fuel pipe.

Fix: Check fuel pipe positioning correct if necessary and fit protective sleeve.

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 4,861 vehicles

R/2022/3628 Aug 2022Built 2022Insufficient tightening torque of the steering gear fastening bolts can lead to vibration or improper steering behaviour.

Insufficient tightening torque of the steering gear fastening bolts can lead to vibration or improper steering behaviour.

Fix: Check and replace the steering gear if necessary.

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 1 vehicles

R/2022/2528 Aug 2022Built 2022On the affected vehicles equipped with a manual handbrake the efficiency of the handbrake and service brake may be compromised

On the affected vehicles equipped with a manual handbrake the efficiency of the handbrake and service brake may be compromised.

Fix: Check the rear brake caliper references and replace as necessary.

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 49 vehicles

R/2022/20413 Jul 2022Built 2022The high voltage harness might not be to the correct specification.

The High Voltage Harness might not be to the correct specification.

Fix: Check the harness conformity and replace it if necessary.

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 33 vehicles

R/2022/14116 May 2022Built 2020–2021The selective catalytic reduction system does not heat up as required

Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system does not heat up as required.

Fix: Replace the affected Urea Reservoir.

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 191 vehicles

R/2022/06514 Mar 2022Built 2021The front modular bench seat headrests may not be to specification.

The front modular bench seat headrests may not be to specification and might not be locked correctly.

Fix: Check and if necessary replace the affected headrests and guides

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 638 vehicles

R/2021/2527 Jul 2021Built 2021The rear spring centraliser might be welded incorrectly

The rear spring centraliser might be welded incorrectly.

Fix: Add 3 weld spots to the rear spring centralisers.

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 53 vehicles

R/2020/38422 Dec 2020Built 2020Possible damaged wheel bolt threads due to a production process deviation

Possible damaged wheel bolt threads due to a production process deviation.

Fix: Check and if necessary replace the wheel bolts hub and wheel.

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 53 vehicles

R/2020/37115 Dec 2020Built 2016–2017An incorrect calibration file for nox calculation was used in production

An incorrect calibration file for NOx calculation was used in production.

Fix: Reprogram the Reductant Control Module with the latest software.

Recalled models: VIVARO B · 974 vehicles

R/2020/03311 Feb 2020Built 2019Several rear axle fastening bolts need to be replaced

Rear axle bolts may break or become loose

Fix: Check the fastening torque and replace affected bolts on all affected vehicles

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 39 vehicles

R/2019/42811 Feb 2020Built 2019Water ingress through wheel arches into passenger compartment

Water ingress into the passenger compartment due to poor wheel arch sealing may lead to airbag malfunction

Fix: Seal the wheel arch body seams. Replace wiring harness and airbag control unit if necessary

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 75 vehicles

R/2020/03611 Feb 2020Built 2019Water ingress through wheel arches into passenger compartment

Water ingress into the passenger compartment due to poor wheel arch sealing may lead to airbag malfunction

Fix: Seal the wheel arch body seams. Replace wiring harness and airbag control unit if necessary

Recalled models: VIVARO C · 945 vehicles

R/2019/42310 Jan 2020Built 2019Potential chafing on the fuel tubes

Affected vehicles may have a chafing condition on the fuel pipes.

Fix: Check and replace the fuel pipes as necessary add protectors to the pipes

Recalled models: VIVARO · 2,015 vehicles

R/2019/16928 May 2019Built 2018Loss of parking brake function

Incorrect crimping of the secondary parking brake cable ferrules.

Fix: Replacement of the secondary parking brake cables the adjuster and the adjustment nut.

Recalled models: VIVARO B · 6,270 vehicles

R/2017/02517 Mar 2017Built 2013–2016Suspension may become insecure

The longitudinal control arm of the rear axle may not be correctly fastened. This may cause the arm to break and/or detach.

Fix: On affected vehicles check the torque of the screw connection on the longitudinal rod and replace nuts bolts or rear axle where necessary.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 2,601 vehicles

R/2016/25625 Nov 2016Built 2013–2016Egr valve pipe may fail

It has been identified that the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve pipe may fail/break. This will allow hot exhaust gases to escape and potentially damage component in the surrounding area.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace the EGR valve pipe.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 8,391 vehicles

R/2016/20013 Sept 2016Built 2014–2016Bonnet catch may fail

Due to an incorrect tightening operation in the production plant the locking function of the hood might not work correctly. This may allow the bonnet to open whilst the vehicle is in motion

Fix: On affected vehicles check tightness of securing bolts and replace where necessary

Recalled models: VIVARO · 7,866 vehicles

R/2016/10119 May 2016Built 2013–2014Airbag may not deploy as intended

One or both bolts retaining the passenger air bag may have been omitted during production. As a result the airbag may not deploy as intended during a frontal collision.

Fix: On affected vehicles check bolts are present for tightness and fit new bolts where required.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 22 vehicles

R/2016/02011 Apr 2016Built 2013–2015Bonnet lock may fail

The tightening torque of both hood primary latch bolts may not be to specification and cause the locking function of the hood to not work correctly. The loosening of the hood latch screws under the influence of vibrations together with the aerodynamic pressure under the hood can lead to the bonnet not staying in the closed position.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the tightening torque of both hood primary latch bolts. Where necessary the bolts will be replaced.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 2,364 vehicles

R/2015/2579 Feb 2016Built 2015Loss of braking performance

The servo vacuum pump may fail causing a hard bake pedal loss of engine power and the vehicle may adopt limp home mode. A warning lamp may also illuminate.

Fix: On affected vehicles replace vacuum pump.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 598 vehicles

R/2015/0788 Apr 2015Built 2014Brake pedal may loosen

It is possible for the servo mounting bolts to loosen. If the noises are ignored over time it is possible for the brakes to be compromised.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the brake pedal/servo mounting nuts.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 780 vehicles

R/2015/07221 Mar 2015Built 2014Seat frame may fail

The integrity of the front seat bench frame for the passengers may be compromised because of non-compliance during the manufacturing processes. Customer may hear noises coming from underneath the bench. They may also notice some cracking on the seat frame angles. If the seat fails during a collision the passengers have an elevated risk of injury.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and inspect the seat frame. Replace the seat where necessary.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 1,650 vehicles

R/2015/07021 Mar 2015Built 2014–2015Front dual seat may be unstable in a collision

The front dual passenger seat may fail as the welded seams may not be to specification.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affect and inspect the seat frame and where necessary replace the frame.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 395 vehicles

R/2015/07121 Mar 2015Built 2014Directional control may be affected

The lower wishbone fixing bolts might not have been tightened to the correct specification. This could lead to steering wheel noise and vibration possibly affecting steering direction while driving or accelerating (e.g. pulling to one side).

Fix: On affected vehicles check tightness of bolts. If necessary replace bolts and tighten to correct specification.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 687 vehicles

R/2015/06921 Mar 2015Built 2014Parking brake may not perform correctly

The parking brake cable may not have been assembled correctly which can result in either the inability to apply the parking brake or the inability to release the parking brake.

Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the parking brake cable.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 780 vehicles

R/2012/0877 Sept 2012Built 2012Seat belt buckle may fail

Seat-belt buckle for the double cab second seat row may separate from seat connector under load.

Fix: Check all seat-belt buckles of the second seat row according to the following rework instruction and install a new seat-belt buckle if necessary

Recalled models: VIVARO · 63 vehicles

R/2010/2271 Mar 2011Handbrake may fail

Risk that the primary handbrake cable end - piece crimping may not conform so the handbrake cable may become detached.

Fix: Check crimping at cable end. Replace cable if not within tolerance.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 1,768 vehicles

R/2010/08122 Jul 2010Built 2006Steering may fail

It has been identified that the welds to the left front suspension-strut turret many not be to specification. This could lead to detachment of the suspension-strut turret detachment and subsequent loss of control of the vehicle.

Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and apply additional weld seams to the turret.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 15 vehicles

R/2009/10112 Nov 2009Seat belts may become insecure

The bolt securing the outer seat belt buckles may become loose on the 2nd and if fitted 3d row seats

Fix: Recall affected vehicles remove bolt remove washer clean and refit bolt applying thread lock

Recalled models: VIVARO · 508 vehicles

R/2008/17115 Dec 2008Built 2006–2008Possible failure of parking brake

It has been identified that the parking brake cable connector situated between the primary and intermediate parking brake cables may fracture. Should this occur the parking brake function would be lost.

Fix: Recalled vehicles will have the subject cable connector replaced.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 45,330 vehicles

R/2003/0154 Apr 2003Possible detachment of brake pedal linkage retaining clip.

A brake pedal linkage retaining clip may become detached after high mileage. Although no incidents have been reported in the worst case a pedal link could become detached and render the footbrake ineffective.

Fix: Fit modified brake pedal linkage retaining clips.

Recalled models: VIVARO · 1,148 vehicles

DVSA vehicle safety recalls (Crown copyright, Open Government Licence).

Checking a Vauxhall Vivaro before you buy

Look at the parts above at the viewing, and read the car’s own MOT history: advisories for the same parts suggest the problem is already starting. Sweep’s free check shows every MOT, advisory and mileage reading for a registration.

Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests 2023 (Open Government Licence v3.0). Failure rates compare this model with all cars in the same age band. Fix prices are typical independent-garage estimates.
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