Common Faults with a Vauxhall Movano: a van so vast you might occasionally find yourself checking the echo when you shout. It’s designed to haul, tow, and endure the rigours of British roads and weather. But like all great leviathans of the load, it carries a few genetic flaws in its otherwise sturdy DNA.
First, let’s talk about the Turbocharger. The Movano’s turbo can be as temperamental as a celebrity chef at a bad review. When it decides to throw a fit, you might find your Movano struggling to get up hills or accelerate on the motorway, behaving more like a tired old mule than a sprightly workhorse. And when the turbo goes, it’s not just a quick fix—it’s a “cancel your plans and open your wallet” kind of problem.
Then there’s the Gearbox, especially in the older models. It’s like playing a slot machine that hasn’t been serviced since the ’80s. Sometimes you hit the jackpot with a smooth shift, and other times, it’s a clunking mess that leaves you wondering if you’ve just dropped gears onto the road. Reports of sudden gearbox failures or stubborn manual transmissions are not uncommon, which can be particularly irksome when you’re loaded and on a tight schedule.
Electrical issues are another chapter in this tome of troubles. The Electrical System in the Movano can act up with all the unpredictability of British weather. From central locking systems that decide to go rogue to mysterious battery drains that leave drivers stranded and scratching their heads—it’s all part of the Movano’s charm, apparently.
Let’s not overlook the Injection System, particularly in the diesel models. The fuel injectors can clog or fail, leading to reduced engine efficiency, stuttering performance, and an increase in smoke that could make it a candidate for its own weather system. It’s enough to make you think the van is auditioning for a role as a smoke machine at a rock concert.
The Suspension system, tasked with carrying heavy loads, can sometimes show signs of premature wear and tear. The Movano, when fully laden, often feels like it’s auditioning for a role in a period drama, groaning and creaking at every turn. Worn shocks and bushings can make a ride in the Movano feel more like a voyage on a Victorian carriage.
Despite these issues, the Movano is a beast of burden that many find indispensable. It offers impressive load space, a variety of body styles, and a driving position that gives you a view akin to a watchtower. It’s as versatile as it is voluminous, capable of becoming anything from a mobile workshop to a delivery giant.
If you’re the owner of a Vauxhall Movano or considering becoming one, take heart. Yes, it has its faults—some of them as pronounced as the dents in its bodywork from navigating through tight country lanes. But with regular maintenance, an understanding of its common faults, and a good mechanic (perhaps one who specializes in exorcisms for those electrical issues), the Movano can be a faithful ally in your commercial fleet.
In essence, owning a Movano is like being in a longstanding marriage. It requires patience, a good sense of humor, and an acceptance that sometimes things will break. Treat it well, pay attention to its needs, and it will likely keep your business moving forward, albeit with the occasional grumble.
