Vauxhall Astra Astra H 1.7 CDTi 100bhp — Starter Motor Solenoid / Brush Wear
The starter motor wears out internally. This is particularly common on vehicles equipped with Stop/Start systems.
Severity
SevereDIY Difficulty
Moderate
Est. Cost
£150–£350
OBD Codes
None
Symptoms
- A single loud 'click' when turning the key, but engine doesn't crank
- Engine cranks very slowly despite a fully charged battery
- Whirring or grinding noise after the engine starts
Root Cause
The carbon brushes inside the motor wear down to the copper wiring, or the contacts inside the solenoid burn out from repeated arcing.
How To Fix
- Confirm battery voltage is strong under load (to rule out a dead battery).
- Replace the starter motor unit.
- Ensure main earth straps from engine block to chassis are clean and tight.
- Cost: £150-350
Estimated Repair Costs
| Repair Option | Est. Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | £60–£140 |
| Independent Garage | £150–£350 |
| Main Dealership | £240–£560 |
Other Faults on This Variant
EGR Valve Failure
ModerateThe Isuzu-sourced Z17DTH and Z17DTJ engines in the Astra H have a well-documented EGR valve failure. Carbon deposits cause the valve to stick, resulting in power loss and increased emissions.
DPF Blockage
ModerateDPF-equipped Astra H 1.7 CDTi models (post-2007) suffer from the same DPF blockage issues as most diesel Vauxhalls of this era. Urban use is the root cause.
Dual Mass Flywheel Failure
ModerateDMF wear on the Astra H 1.7 CDTi is a high-mileage inevitability. The flywheel's internal dampers lose effectiveness, causing vibration and judder that makes the car unpleasant to drive.
Disclaimer: Repair cost estimates are indicative and based on community data. Always get a quote from a qualified mechanic before proceeding with any repair.