2005 petrol Vectra electronics issues

Hesh's Umpire

Hoping someone can help.

I've a 2005 petrol Vectra. 1.8 litre.

Couple of things.

Can lock the car remotely with the key but not open it remotely with key. Also cannot open boot remotely with key.

From time to time the car won't start. I can link this to an elctronics thing that also happens when the car is running and the wipers, indicators, heater motor, back window heater and outside temperature indicator all stop functioning.

I realise it's an electronics thing but what's the solution? I had a "friend of a friend" put a diagnostics machine on it over a year ago but the problem is recurring.

Seems to be linked to cold, wet weather too if that makes any sense?

Would be grateful for suggestions!

Cass

When it won't start, does it sound sluggish, make a clicking/whurring noise or does it turn over fine, but just won't "fire"?

I've had numerous Vectras over the years from my 1996, 1.8 to my 2005 SRI, and my current 2004 GTS. Now i'm by no means an expert and not even a mechanic, but have done enough fixes to have a few guesses at what it might be. I say this as an "advisory" in that nothing i say should be acted upon until you consult a professional.

It sounds like alternator trouble. Failing alt. or bad earth causing the battery to run "solo". Have you checked the battery? Put a multi-meter across it. If the alternator is failing (not failed) it'll put a drain on the battery and may cause the intermittent nature electrical issues. It may also manifest in loss of power steering, and can affect the ECU. If this happens you're looking at a lot of money to fix.

Have you had it on a diagnostics machine recently? That would be the first port of call. Check the error codes to see if they shine a light on it. It may not show up or not pinpoint the error due to the intermittent nature of problems so have a professional check the alternator.

So in summary:

1. Get it to someone and get it plugged in again
2. Check Alternator
3. Check leads and earth to alternator/battery
4. Check Battery

The issue with the locks is something i've not had, but my Father did on his Vectra (1.9 Diesel, 2005). Was a solenoid (IIRC), but i'd look at your other issues first incase they somehow are linked.


As said i could be way off so open to correction.

Hesh's Umpire

Great post, thanks, I will take it to the mechanic.