Insigniabuyer's guide

The Insignia A is a big family car that looks good value at used prices — until the diesel emissions system or timing chain catches up with you. AdBlue, DPF and EGR faults are endemic on cars used predominantly for short runs, and the timing belt and chain service risk on several engine variants can mean a four-figure bill if the history is vague. The Insignia also spans nearly a decade of production, so knowing which years and specs to avoid matters as much as what to check.

This guide covers ten documented issues: AdBlue/DPF/EGR emissions fault, timing belt/chain service risk, DSG/automatic/clutch judder, coolant leak or water pump fault, infotainment/software electrical faults, suspension knocks and tyre wear, brake corrosion or EPB fault, panoramic roof or boot water leak, turbo boost leak or actuator fault, and recall/campaign status. Each fault has a field check and a real repair-cost range.

A well-serviced Insignia A with clean diesel history is a spacious and capable used car. This guide tells you what to ask, what to scan, and what to walk away from before you hand over a deposit.