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Hi everyone, I'm just wondering what fuel people are using on their Puretech engines: Esso or Shell. Or can we cheat and go with E10 supermarket fuel? Obviously I want the fuel which provides me with the best mpg possible.

I can't see the sensor as such but the position is bang on so maybe it is. Worth putting the scanner on the car and see what the live readings are for the ambient air temperature sensor - you'll soon see if it is out of range

That does make me wonder at times, as it is only down to the refinement of the fuel. I could understand it if it was like it used to be with the 4 star leaded and unleaded. And you had the 2 star for mowers and mopeds. But now I use E10 in my mower as well. I don't know how my 1982 Datsun is going to fair with E5 or E10 though. When leaded was done away with, I just adjusted the carb and timing. Didn't even need to have new valve seats either. But thats a project for the near future.

Finally got to Halfords... They have an 'ISO Harness CT20VX04' for aftermarket radio in a 05-10 Meriva. It will take power as per the factory fitted radio. It does not connect to the steering wheel controls. Costs £25. As commented in the original post I already have an aftermarket radio and the steering wheel controls operate the radio. Halfords person suggested splicing the current red power cable to one that provides power to the fuse/cable that runs the windows, sunroofs and wing mirrors. Could not see any issue with a further 5amp load on the fuse. That is the route I had in mind but had concerns about the 'Body Control Module'. Seems the concerns are unfounded. One day I will get to play around with the wires in the car :0) Thank you for your input.

Hey everyone I’m new to the group and also new to the whole car-modding scene. I drive an Opel Astra H GTC 125, and I’ve recently started developing a real passion for modifying it and making it look neat. So far, I’ve done a good cleanup, repainted the car, and even painted the brake calipers. Basically, it’s now at a perfect ground zero for me to start adding mods. I’d love to hear your suggestions on where a beginner like me should start. A few things about what I’m aiming for: I’d prefer to do most of the work myself and keep learning along the way. I don’t want to mess too much with electrical components. I’m more interested in exterior mods and some light engine or exhaust changes. I’m on a budget, since I’m still figuring out what I like most. I’m currently looking at adding a fin and roof bars. One thing I’m especially curious about: exhaust mods. I’d love my Astra to have a deeper, more aggressive roar. Can I realistically do an exhaust change myself as a beginner, or is it better to get it done by a pro? What exhaust tips or setups would you recommend for a nice roar without going overboard? What have you done to your own cars—any DIY exhaust mods that worked well? The car is my daily driver (work commute + weekend adventures), so I don’t want to go too extreme, just tasteful and practical. Thanks in advance, really looking forward to learning from you all!

I ran my Astra on E5 to start with, and it didn't seem to happy. Was quite spluttery at times. Went over to the E`10, and she runs like a dream. And i can get an average 45-50 mpg. 1.6 16 valve automatic with 141000 miles, and 23 years old.

Hi Taylor - welcome to the forum Modding cars is as you have already said is down to having a budget and also and most importantly, how you want it to look. Subtle mods are sometimes better than completely changing the look too much which can appear overwhelming to the eye. Bear in mind anything you do to the vehicle can affect the insurance, hence subtle body mods are better than changing engine and exhaust components. Also, tends to attract the attention of the local constabulary. Feel free to post up some pics of the car as it is and I'm sure other members can add their comments

Sat and worked out mpg for the trip to the coast the other day. And I can honestly say that I'm impressed. A round trip of 88 miles and £10 of petrol. Works out that I was getting 47 mpg. For a 23 year old car that's coming up to 241000 miles, and automatic. I think that's good going.

Ah the good old days of points and the ignition coil :0) I'll have a chat with Halfords. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

That's great news Andy and fuel filters are commonly overlooked on all makes and models of car, motorbike, you name it. May also be worth checking your coolant sensor and ambient air sensor (if fitted to your model) as sometimes they can give misleading information and that can affect idle speeds, etc

88 mile round trip to the coast and back. Had a little glitch on the way out, but that was it. Purred all the way with no problems. just got to work out mpg to see if it's back to its usual consumption. Oh I'm so happy to be driving her and not be worrying.

Yeh know what you mean, I ran Super Unleaded in my motorbikes and didn't make any difference to performance, etc. However, the Z3 (which is 25 years old now) and is in standard engine specs used to have a flat spot from about 1500 - 2500 rpm but as soon as I put the good stuff in it resolved that issue....If only I had know years ago as just put up with the running issue for so long.

Here's the update on the astras running issues. Changed out the fuel filter this evening, and after a rough start and idle, she seemed to pick up. Took her out for a test run, and first junction after a mile, she cut out. Restarted straight away. Went on a run for about ten miles, and withhaving to stop every so often as it's narrow country lanes around here. She had no issues of stalling. Gave her a good hard run on the clear straights, and yes she's back toher good old self. Pulling like a trojan, and stopping without cutting out. So if anyone has these issues. Then I suggest replacing fuel filter. Tomorrow we're off to the coast. So some fresh fuel and a good run should sort her out.

Thanks Andy for sharing the detailed report as it would be useful for anyone else who is experiencing the same issues. I don't think it does any harm to internally clean some components due to carbon build up and degrading seals and gaskets. I think we are yet to see how the increased Ethanol in fuel will affect the older vehicles particularly when it comes to seals and gaskets - only time will tell. Look forward to the updated reports

Well the clean up of throttle body improved the performance and the idling is a bit better. I have invested in a new fuel filter as apparently it can give the same symptoms that i am suffering with at the moment. So at some point tomorrow afternoon, i will swap them over and see how it goes. WATCH THIS SPACE FOR NEWS ON THE OUTCOME.

Hi I had the same problem and its very common issue with the grandland. The wiring loom can't take the load Apparently. I think the wire overheats and causes the wiring to fail. I had the garage look at it and they upgraded the wiring at a cost of £150. Hope this helps

Hi I had the same problem and it was a total nightmare to sort. I had to buy a certain type of manufactures USB memory stick. Had to download load the updates about 20 time before it was recognised by the car. Got there in the end and won't be updating it again lol

Thats strange, i went vauxhall they said its the MAP sensor on inlet manifold.... ive check the 4 pin wiring all the way to the ECU its all good, just waiting for new MAP sensor come to see if it is that

Hi ive just joined a week ago I bought a Vauxhall meriva just wanted to say hello

I have a brand new and packaged tow bar complete with all nuts bolts and fittings for a five door 1.6 1998 astra any offers accepted . thanks Rick on 07889220124

Thanks for that! Will try to get dealer to find the problem under the warranty ie free of charge!

Well I removed the throttle body and gave it a good dowsing of carb cleaner. It was very Carboned up below the butterfly. I'm going to give the EGR a clean out too. And hopefully it will be a good cure.

OK cheers for this will take a look at this I Ave had a look on taken the door card off but did not get around to getting it all the way off as it seemed to e stuck at top, but will try your reply first

Sorry for late update on this I ended up changing the resoviar and low and behold message gone on looking in side of the old one the float was not working so happy days thanks for any reply n this