It was one of Britain’s most popular cars – the Vauxhall Corsa and there are still countless numbers on the road today. One of General Motors’ long-established ‘world cars’, designed to meet the needs of drivers on a global scale, since replacing the Nova in 1992 the British branded model won the affection of motorists across the UK, especially first-time drivers.

The third generation, launched in 2006, was a consistent best seller in the used-car charts, and a secondhand Corsa D can be a very cost effective way of getting on the road, whether you’re looking for an economical commuter car, reliable family transport or a high-performance small hot hatchback.

Sharing technology with the Fiat Grande Punto, the 2007-2014 Vauxhall Corsa introduced a grown up, substantial feel to Vauxhall’s superminis. Not only did it set a new benchmark for Corsa safety – achieving a full five stars for adult occupant protection with EuroNCAP – the fit and finish of the third generation is significantly improved over previous models, with upmarket materials and surprisingly advanced technology for what was also one of Britain’s most affordable new cars for much of its life.

If you’re confused by the generations, there’s a good reason. The Vauxhall Nova was known as the Opel Corsa elsewhere, so our Mk3 Corsa is known as the fourth-gen Corsa D globally.

They’re everywhere, but do you notice them?

You might remember the cute knitted puppets that marked this Corsa’s debut, but the car itself has a few memorable features – not least, the FlexFix integrated bike rack option. Hidden behind the rear numberplate is a two-bike rack that includes auxiliary lights. It’s not the easiest feature to find, but it’s worth seeking out if you enjoy escaping the city and cycling in the countryside.

Although this used review focuses on the Corsa D, the next generation Corsa E from 2014-2019 is a substantial facelift of the same car. If you have a higher budget and want something newer, it’s worth considering; the Corsa F (and the confusingly-named electric Corsa-E) is a very different car, sharing technology with the Peugeot 208.

Vauxhall Corsa D (2006-2014) known faults and common problems

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Buying guide – common issues, and what to look for if you’re looking at getting one.

1. EASYTRONIC TRANSMISSION

It may have six gears and a clever title but it’s one to miss. Basically it’s an ECU and servo controlled manual gearbox, which isn’t smooth. The electronic control can play up without warning causing big specialist bills. If you want two pedal fun, go for the four-speed automatic instead.

2. RATTLING ON IDLE

Three-cylinder 1.0 and 1.2/1.4 four-cylinder petrol engines can suffer from worn and noisy timing chains if they have been abused or neglected. A car with these symptoms is best avoided, repair is expensive regardless of how cheap the car may be. Lovingly serviced from new however, they can run forever.

3. LOOSE LEVER OR NON-WORKING HANDBRAKE

Give the handbrake lever a good wiggle in both on and off position. Any excessive movement may be down to loose rivets where the lever is mounted to the floorpan. A handbrake that doesn’t work points to an insecure cable mounting component under the car.

4. DOOR LOCK PROBLEMS

There’s been a number of reported cases of faulty central locking, namely with the deadlock function. It’s worth checking this works properly as contents theft may leave you out of pocket  if the car is examined by your insurance company.

5. TOTAL RECALL

The Corsa D has been subject to a number of manufacturer recalls. Contact a Vauxhall dealer to ensure they have been tackled. Scroll down for the link to the DVSA’s recall checker.

6. HEATER CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS

Make sure the heater dials or flap controls behind the dash work correctly otherwise expensive surgery is the only fix. Selecting the vents to screen causes the aircon (if fitted) to automatically switch on. This is a feature and not a fault!

7. SLUGGISH PERFORMANCE

Petrol engines can suffer from misfiring ignition coil packs that are simple and reasonably cheap to replace. However, 1.2 models sitting on optional larger diameter alloy wheels can feel a bit slow owing to optimistically high gearing – not so much a fault, it’s just how they are.

8. CONTAMINATED COOLANT

With the engine cold, look inside the coolant expansion tank for signs of oil contamination on the 1.3 diesel. It’s possibly a failed oil cooler which in severe cases can render the car an economic write off.

9. ERRATIC OR HEAVY STEERING

Problems with the electric power steering motor unit are common place. It’s not unknown for dodgy traders to attempt fobbing customers off by knocking few quid off the deal. It’s a well-known fault that has come down in price over the years to cure.

10. THUMPING FRONT SUSPENSION

Listen carefully on the test drive for clonking front suspension. This may point towards worn out front strut bearings and or a broken coil spring. Also ensure the front of the car sits evenly on a level surface. Springs should be replaced in pairs.

To find out if this is the small car for you, read on for our full used Vauxhall Corsa review

As with all used purchases, do remember to get a car history check. It might just save you from an unpleasant surprise later down the line. Also, don’t forget you can use our valuation tool to get an idea of how much you should be paying for a car. You can also check our reviews section for more information about the cars you are interested in.