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Opel · Known Issues

2020 Opel Grandland Problems: 6 Known Issues

2020 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2020 Opel Grandland has 6 documented known issues, with 4 rated critical. The most serious are Grandland X 1.6 THP Timing Chain Stretch ($1,200-$3,500 repair), Plug-in Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Fire Risk (Recall KT8/KC5) ($0-$0 repair), 1.2 PureTech (EB2) Wet Timing Belt Degradation & Oil Starvation ($700-$4,000 repair) and Diesel SCR/AdBlue & NOx Sensor Emissions Fault with 'Starting Impossible' Limp Mode ($250-$1,200 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Grandland Engine2
  • Grandland Electrical2
  • Grandland Emissions1
  • Grandland Transmission1
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine2
  • Electrical2
  • Emissions1
  • Transmission1
  • FAQ

All 6 Known Issues

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On the 2017-2021 Opel Grandland 1.6 Turbo (Prince/THP), the PSA/BMW "Prince" 1.6 THP engine in early Grandland X (2017-2021) suffers timing chain stretch, also documented across Peugeot 3008/5008 and Citroën C5 Aircross. Symptoms appear from 80,000 km. Same root cause as the well-documented MINI Cooper S timing chain issue from the same engine family.

This issue also affects: Opel Astra, Opel Combo, Opel Corsa

Common Symptoms

  • cold start rattle
  • misfire
  • oil consumption
  • EML

How to Fix

Chain kit replacement €1,200-€2,000. Stick to 10,000 km oil intervals with full-synthetic C2/C3. Listen for the characteristic "death rattle" on cold start — once consistent, replacement is urgent.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • BGA TC1030FK timing-chain kit with gears

    Confirm VIN, engine code, OE number and 138-link/gear configuration.

    My Motor World

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$1,200 - $3,500

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On the 2019-2024 Opel Grandland 1.2 PureTech EB2 (110/130 PS), grandland X models with the 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder petrol engine (EB2/EB2ADTS, developed by PSA) use a 'wet' timing belt that runs submerged in engine oil. The belt coating breaks down over time, shedding rubber/material debris into the oil. This debris clogs the oil pump pickup strainer, VVT solenoids and oil passages, causing oil starvation and accelerated wear, and the belt can ultimately snap, causing catastrophic engine damage on this interference engine. Symptoms include rattling on cold start, oil/CEL warnings, ticking from the timing case and excessive oil consumption.

This issue also affects: Opel Astra, Opel Combo, Opel Corsa

Common Symptoms

  • Cold-start rattle
  • Ticking/whirring from timing case
  • Oil pressure / engine warning light
  • High oil consumption
  • Loss of power or sudden engine failure

How to Fix

Replace the wet timing belt well ahead of the original interval. Manufacturer guidance was revised down from ~180,000 km to roughly every 90,000-100,000 km (or 6 years); some specialists recommend even earlier inspection. Use only the correct low-SAPS oil and keep to short oil-change intervals to slow belt breakdown. If debris/oil starvation has occurred, the oil pump strainer, solenoids and possibly the engine must be inspected/replaced.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • INA 530 0856 10 118-tooth wet timing-belt kit

    Confirm VIN, EB2 engine code and OE number; exclude chain-equipped hybrid/Gen-3 engines.

    OnlineCarParts
  • ToolHub PureTech 16 mm wet-belt inspection gauge

    PSA/Stellantis EB0/EB2 belt-in-oil engines using the 16 mm gauge equivalent; not for chain engines and not a substitute for visible-condition inspection.

    eBay UK
  • TotalEnergies Quartz Ineo First 0W-30 5 L

    Specification-based consumable; confirm the Grandland VIN's current Opel/Stellantis service information before use because later guidance may supersede B71 2312.

    AUTODOC UK

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$700 - $4,000

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2019-2023 Opel Grandland 1.6 Turbo PHEV (13.2 kWh battery), grandland X Hybrid/Hybrid4 plug-in models use a 13.2 kWh lithium-ion high-voltage battery that is the subject of multiple Stellantis safety recalls. Water can infiltrate the battery case/support and cause corrosion, and a faulty high-voltage battery can overheat, creating a risk of the battery or vehicle catching fire. EU Safety Gate alert classifies this as a 'serious' defect. This is part of a wider Stellantis PHEV campaign affecting tens of thousands of vehicles across brands.

Common Symptoms

  • Battery overheating warning
  • Reduced/loss of EV range
  • Charging restrictions
  • Risk of fire/smoke from battery area

How to Fix

Take the vehicle to an authorized Opel/Vauxhall dealer to have the recall performed: technicians inspect the HV battery, add water drainage holes in the battery support/reinforcement to prevent water pooling and corrosion, and replace the battery if found defective. Until repaired, some campaigns advise limiting charging. Repair is free of charge under the recall.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2017-2023 Opel Grandland, grandland X owners widely report infotainment problems: the IntelliLink/NAC head unit freezes, crashes or reboots, loses smartphone (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) connectivity, and the reversing camera image goes black or dark intermittently. Issues often begin around 12,000-25,000 km. The reversing-camera blackout sometimes self-resolves after locking the car and leaving it, pointing to a software/module fault rather than a wiring break.

Common Symptoms

  • Infotainment screen freezes/reboots
  • Loss of Apple CarPlay / Android Auto connection
  • Reversing camera image black or intermittent
  • Touchscreen unresponsive

How to Fix

Apply the latest infotainment/NAC software update from Opel/Vauxhall, which resolves many freeze and connectivity bugs. Persistent reversing-camera dropouts can require reseating/repairing the camera connector or replacing the camera or head unit if a hardware fault is confirmed. A battery disconnect/module reset is a common temporary workaround.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $600

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2017-2023 Opel Grandland, diesel Grandland X models (1.5 BlueHDi/1.6 diesel with SCR after-treatment) frequently throw exhaust after-treatment faults. Owners see emissions warnings, reduced power/limp mode, and the countdown message 'Engine start prevented in XXX miles/km'. Common root causes are NOx sensor failure (range/performance faults), SCR system or AdBlue injector/pump faults, crystallised AdBlue, or poor-quality urea. If ignored, the car eventually refuses to start. Critical phase is commonly around 30,000-45,000 km.

This issue also affects: Opel Movano, Opel Combo, Opel Zafira

Common Symptoms

  • Emissions / exhaust after-treatment warning
  • Reduced engine power / limp mode
  • 'Starting impossible in XXX km/miles' message
  • High AdBlue consumption
  • Engine refuses to start

How to Fix

Diagnose with a scan tool to identify whether the fault is a NOx sensor, the SCR/AdBlue dosing system, or sensor wiring/connector corrosion. Typical fixes: replace the failed NOx sensor (upstream/downstream), clean or replace the AdBlue injector/pump, refill with quality AdBlue, and clear the codes/reset the countdown. Software updates from Stellantis exist for some after-treatment faults. Do not ignore the 'start prevented' countdown.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Halfords ISO 22241 AdBlue 10 L with pouring spout

    Universal ISO 22241 AdBlue for SCR diesels. Add only to the dedicated AdBlue filler and follow the Grandland manual's quantity/recognition procedure; not a repair for a persistent SCR fault.

    Halfords
  • Bosch 0281006851 upstream NOx sensor 9816276480

    Opel/Vauxhall Grandland X 2018-on 1.5 BlueHDi/DV5 upstream sensor, OE 9816276480/Bosch 0281006851. VIN verification is offered; not downstream and not the older 1.6 diesel branch.

    Auto724
  • Grandland 1.5 Turbo D AdBlue injector 3647595

    Confirm VIN and old part number; not approved for the 1.6 diesel.

    Acorn Auto Parts

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$250 - $1,200

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2018-2024 Opel Grandland EAT8 / AWF8G30 8-speed automatic, grandland X models fitted with the Aisin EAT8 8-speed automatic (shared across the Stellantis/PSA platform with Peugeot/Citroen) exhibit poor low-speed shift quality once the gearbox is at operating temperature. Owners report gears 1-3 shifting very slowly with an extra throttle/RPM surge between shifts, jerking when pulling away from a stop, hesitation on kick-down, and harsh shifts when cold. A separate but common complaint is a loud metallic 'singing'/whining noise from the gearbox between roughly 45-65 km/h. Root cause is sensitivity of the EAT8 to learned adaptation values and (for the noise) gear/bearing tolerances dealers often dismiss as 'normal'.

Common Symptoms

  • Jerking when pulling away
  • Slow/delayed shifts when warm
  • Extra RPM surge between gears
  • Hesitation on kick-down
  • Harsh shifts when cold
  • Loud metallic whine/sing at 45-65 km/h

How to Fix

First step is a transmission adaptation reset followed by relearn drive cycle, plus any Opel/Stellantis transmission control software update; many cars improve significantly without mechanical repair. Persistent harsh shifting can require an ATF fluid level/quality check and service (the EAT8 needs the correct Aisin spec fluid). The whine is harder to resolve and sometimes requires valve body or gearbox replacement under warranty if severe.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Aisin OEM ATF-AW2 automatic-transmission fluid 1 L

    Confirm Grandland transmission code, VIN, fill quantity, fluid temperature and level procedure; do not substitute AW-1, JWS3309 or Dexron VI.

    Sussex Autos

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $2,500

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Opel Grandland problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2020 Opel Grandland has 6 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Grandland X 1.6 THP Timing Chain Stretch, Plug-in Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Fire Risk (Recall KT8/KC5), 1.2 PureTech (EB2) Wet Timing Belt Degradation & Oil Starvation. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Opel Grandland reliable?

The 2020 Opel Grandland has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 4 issues are rated critical: Grandland X 1.6 THP Timing Chain Stretch and Plug-in Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Fire Risk (Recall KT8/KC5) and 1.2 PureTech (EB2) Wet Timing Belt Degradation & Oil Starvation and Diesel SCR/AdBlue & NOx Sensor Emissions Fault with 'Starting Impossible' Limp Mode. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Opel Grandland problems?

Repair costs for known Opel Grandland issues range from $0 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Grandland X 1.6 THP Timing Chain Stretch, typically costs $1,200-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2017-2021 Opel Grandland Grandland X 1.6 THP Timing Chain Stretch?

The PSA/BMW "Prince" 1.6 THP engine in early Grandland X (2017-2021) suffers timing chain stretch, also documented across Peugeot 3008/5008 and Citroën C5 Aircross. Symptoms appear from 80,000 km. Same root cause as the well-documented MINI Cooper S timing chain issue from the sa… Repairs typically run $1,200-$3,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2019-2023 Opel Grandland Plug-in Hybrid High-Voltage Battery Fire Risk (Recall KT8/KC5)?

Grandland X Hybrid/Hybrid4 plug-in models use a 13.2 kWh lithium-ion high-voltage battery that is the subject of multiple Stellantis safety recalls. Water can infiltrate the battery case/support and cause corrosion, and a faulty high-voltage battery can overheat, creating a risk… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, automotive forums, and AI-assisted research. No aggregated owner-report counts available for this vehicle yet.

What is the 2019-2024 Opel Grandland 1.2 PureTech (EB2) Wet Timing Belt Degradation & Oil Starvation?

Grandland X models with the 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder petrol engine (EB2/EB2ADTS, developed by PSA) use a 'wet' timing belt that runs submerged in engine oil. The belt coating breaks down over time, shedding rubber/material debris into the oil. This debris clogs the oil pump pi… Repairs typically run $700-$4,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2017-2023 Opel Grandland Diesel SCR/AdBlue & NOx Sensor Emissions Fault with 'Starting Impossible' Limp Mode?

Diesel Grandland X models (1.5 BlueHDi/1.6 diesel with SCR after-treatment) frequently throw exhaust after-treatment faults. Owners see emissions warnings, reduced power/limp mode, and the countdown message 'Engine start prevented in XXX miles/km'. Common root causes are NOx sens… Repairs typically run $250-$1,200. Severity: high.

What is the 2018-2024 Opel Grandland EAT8 (Aisin AWF8) Automatic Transmission Jerking, Hesitation & Whining Noise?

Grandland X models fitted with the Aisin EAT8 8-speed automatic (shared across the Stellantis/PSA platform with Peugeot/Citroen) exhibit poor low-speed shift quality once the gearbox is at operating temperature. Owners report gears 1-3 shifting very slowly with an extra throttle/… Repairs typically run $100-$2,500. Severity: medium.

What is the 2017-2023 Opel Grandland IntelliLink/NAC Infotainment Freezing & Reversing Camera Dropout?

Grandland X owners widely report infotainment problems: the IntelliLink/NAC head unit freezes, crashes or reboots, loses smartphone (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) connectivity, and the reversing camera image goes black or dark intermittently. Issues often begin around 12,000-25,000… Repairs typically run $0-$600. Severity: low.