EXPERT IN AUTO PARTS
30 October 2025 (updated) Table of Contents
The most common faults in the Opel Adam concern the timing chain of the 1.4 turbo engines with 87 hp, 101 hp and 150 hp output. This weak point manifests itself in characteristic rattling noises during cold starts, especially in the first few seconds after starting. The timing chain can stretch from 60,000 km and cause serious problems from 80,000-100,000 km. Typical symptoms are metallic rattling noises from the engine compartment, rough idling and, in severe cases, loss of power. The reliability of the engine depends heavily on timely maintenance of the timing chain.
Regular maintenance is essential for the longevity of the drive. The sensitive Opel Adam timing chains require special attention and should be checked every 60,000 km to avoid costly consequential damage. At the first sign of rattling noises, a specialist workshop should be visited immediately, as a broken chain can lead to serious engine damage. Replacing the timing chain, including the tensioner and rails, is the only permanent solution.
The air conditioning system in the Opel Adam frequently causes problems with its functionality. Many vehicles suffer from the problem that the air conditioning system does not start or only cools insufficiently. These faults are particularly common in vehicles with a mileage of 40,000-60,000 km. The symptoms range from complete cooling failure to poor cooling performance despite the compressor running. Common causes are defective compressors, leaking refrigerant lines or failed sensors. The service life of the air conditioning system is often shortened by a lack of maintenance.
A systematic check is crucial for the functionality of the system. The complex Opel Adam air conditioning systems require annual checks of the refrigerant level and regular disinfection every 2-3 years. Professional maintenance can prevent many problems and significantly extend the service life of the components. At the first sign of poor cooling performance, the refrigerant level should be checked and, if necessary, the system inspected for leaks.
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-40%
RIDEX Tyre pressure sensor (TPMS)
with groove, with valves
Article number: 2232W0084
compared to
RRP
£43.80
£25.99£103.96 / Price per 4 items
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Mass air flow sensor
Article number: 0 280 218 429
£41.99price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-48%
Article number: 110 713
compared to
RRP
£8.39
£4.29
Price per item
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Mass air flow sensor
Article number: 0 280 218 419
£86.99price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
VALEO Antifreeze
G12, yellow, 1l, Concentrate, Amine free-Phosphate free
Article number: 820734
More
£7.99
£7.99
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
The automatic transmission of the Opel Adam has characteristic weak points that manifest themselves in jerky gear changes and delayed gear changes. These faults typically occur after 70,000-90,000 km and are manifested by hard gear engagement, especially when changing from Park to Drive. The transmission does not shift smoothly or gets stuck in a gear, which can lead to unsafe driving. Common causes are worn clutches, defective solenoid valves or problems with the transmission control unit. The reliability of the automatic transmission depends heavily on regular oil changes.
A professional inspection is necessary for early detection of transmission problems. The precise Opel Adam automatic transmissions require an oil change with special ATF oil every 60,000 km to ensure optimal function. Professional maintenance can prevent costly repairs and extend the service life of the transmission to over 200,000 km. A diagnosis should be carried out immediately at the first symptoms, as transmission problems are progressive.
The electric fuel pump is one of the most common weak points in the Opel Adam. This component can lose its reliability after 50,000 km and lead to sudden breakdowns. The symptoms often begin with sporadic starting problems, especially when the engine is warm or the fuel level is low. At an advanced stage, the engine no longer starts at all or stalls while driving. The fuel pump is located in the tank and is particularly susceptible to contamination from low-quality fuel. Frequent complaints also relate to the characteristic humming of the pump, which becomes significantly louder in defective specimens.
Professional maintenance is essential for the longevity of the fuel supply. The sensitive Opel Adam fuel pumps react sensitively to fuel contamination and should be protected by regular use of fuel system cleaners. Preventive treatment prevents premature wear and ensures a reliable fuel supply. Replacing the fuel pump requires the tank to be lowered and should only be carried out by specialist workshops.
The Opel Adam's fuel filler cap can develop mechanical problems, which manifest themselves as sluggish opening or closing. These faults often occur after 30,000-50,000 km and are caused by dirt or corrosion of the closing mechanism. At the same time, the fuel gauge often shows inaccurate values or stops in certain positions. The electronic fuel gauge can start to malfunction after 40,000 km, resulting in incorrect range displays. Symptoms are erratic display values or a display that is permanently set to full or empty. The service life of these components is influenced by fuel quality and environmental influences.
Regular maintenance is important for the correct functioning of the tank components. The sensitive Opel Adam fuel level sensors require occasional calibration and should be checked when abnormalities occur to ensure accurate fuel level readings. Professional cleaning of the fuel filler cap and a check of the electrical connections can solve many problems. In the case of persistent problems with the fuel gauge, it is often necessary to replace the fuel level sensor.
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Article number: EK720
£125.99price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
MOBIL Engine oil
5W-30, 5l
Article number: 150944
£50.49
£10.10
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 76059E18EU
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£12.99
£12.99
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
SWAG Manual Transmission Oil
Capacity: 1l
Article number: 10 92 1829
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£18.49
£18.49
for 1 litre
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Pollen filter
Activated Carbon Filter, 268 mm x 222 mm x 21 mm
Article number: 1 987 432 537
£11.99price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) of the Opel Adam frequently exhibits malfunctions, which are manifested by permanent warning lights or incorrect pressure values. These malfunctions occur particularly after tire changes or in vehicles with 30,000-60,000 km mileage. The system does not function correctly or displays constant error messages even though the tire pressure is correct. Common causes are defective sensors in the wheels, weak sensor batteries or problems with the control unit. The tire pressure reset then does not work properly, resulting in permanent warning messages. The reliability of the system depends on correct initialization after maintenance work.
A systematic check is necessary for the proper functioning of the safety systems. The complex Opel Adam TPMS sensors require reprogramming after every wheel change and regular battery checks every 5-7 years. Professional maintenance can prevent false alarms and ensure road safety. If problems persist, the sensors should be diagnosed and defective components replaced if necessary.
Based on the experiences of Opel Adam owners, the following additional problems occur:
| Strengths | Weak points |
|---|---|
| Compact dimensions for city driving | Timing chain 1.4 Turbo susceptible |
| Modern connectivity features | Frequent air conditioning failures |
| Good personalization options | Automatic transmission shifting problems |
| Low maintenance costs with 1.2 69 hp | Premature wear of fuel pump |
| Agile handling | Mechanical problems with fuel filler cap |
| Extensive range of accessories | TPMS system prone to faults |
| Solid interior workmanship | Complex folding roof mechanism |
The Opel Adam is a small car with a strong character and individual design options, but it has specific weak points that require regular attention. The turbo engines and electronic systems in particular require preventive maintenance to avoid costly repairs. With proper care and timely intervention, most problems can be successfully rectified, allowing the Adam to retain its reliability for many years.
MOTUL Engine oil
5W-30, 4l
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BOSCH Battery
12V 60Ah 680A AGM Battery
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BOSCH Spark plug
M 14 x 1,25, Spanner Size: 16 mm
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MOBIL Engine oil
5W-30, 4l
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BLUE PRINT Oil filter
Filter Insert
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NRF Blower motor resistor
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SCHRADER Tyre pressure sensor (TPMS)
with screw, with valves
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FEBI BILSTEIN Manual Transmission Oil
Capacity: 1l, 75W
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BOSCH Throttle body
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EIBACH Fender flare
Front Axle, Rear Axle, Eibach Pro-Spacer, Splash Guards
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