Overview

Released in March 2003, the Holden ZC Vectra was available as sedan or liftback. Manufactured in Russelsheim, Germany, the front-wheel drive ZC Vectra was available with either a 2.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine or a 3.2-litre petrol V6 engine and in CD, CDX and CDXi variants. Transmission options consisted of five-speed manual and five-speed automatic units.

L61 and L31 engines

Of the engines,

• the 2.2-litre L61 four-cylinder engine had an aluminium block, two counter-rotating in-block balance shafts, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, a double mass flywheel and a compression ratio of 10.0:1; and,
• the 3.2-litre L31 V6 engine had an iron block, aluminium double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, a variable length intake manifold and a compression ratio of 10.0:1.

Dimensions and body

Compared to the JS Vectra , the ZC Vectra sedan and liftback were 101 mm longer (at 4596 mm), 91 mm wider (1798 mm), 35 mm taller (1460 mm) and had 60 mm longer wheelbases (2700 mm). The use of high and extra-high strength steels also contributed to a substantially stronger body which achieved a 74 per cent increase in torsional rigidity and a 62 per cent increase in bending stiffness.

Suspension

The ZC Zectra had MacPherson strut front suspension and four-link rear suspension (both with coil springs, gas-filled dampers and anti-roll bars).

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the ZC Vectra included dual front airbags, front side airbags, ABS with cornering brake control, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, traction control, anti-submarining seats, active front seat head restraints, front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters and outer rear seatbelts with pretensioners; the CDXi was also fitted with electronic stability control.

From 2004, the Vectra CDXi was fitted with full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants).

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 2002 Opel Vectra sedan – as it was sold in Europe – that was fitted with a 1.8-litre petrol engine received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 29.86 when equipped with curtain airbags. In the frontal offset impact test, protection from serious chest and leg injury was marginal for the driver. In the side impact test, there was a slight risk of serious chest injury for the driver.

Features: Vectra CD, CDX and CDXi

Standard features for the entry-level Vectra CD included 16-inch alloy wheels, a nine speaker sound system with CD player, air conditioning, cruise control, steering wheel audio controls, an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors,  a height and reach adjustable steering wheel and an immobiliser.

Beyond this, the Vectra CDX added a six-stack CD player, velour upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, trip computer and woodgrain interior trim.

The range-topping Vectra CDXi was further equipped with 17-inch alloys with sports suspension, dual zone climate control air conditioning, black leather seats, contoured front seats with heating, a refrigerated glovebox and satin chrome instrument detailing. Visually, the CDXi could be identified its black headlight bezels, dark lens tail-lights, larger front air intake, wheel arch vents, rear spoiler and twin exhaust pipes.

2004 Vectra update

From 2004, the CD and CDX were fitted with clear side indicator and rear indicator lenses. Furthermore, the CD received body-coloured door handles (previously reserved for the CDX and CDXi) and the CDX was fitted with dual zone climate control air conditioning.

December 2004 Vectra update

In December 2004, the Vectra was again updated and the range was expanded with the introduction of V6-powered CD variants in sedan and liftback bodies. As part of the update, 

• the Vectra CD variant was fitted new five-spoke alloy wheels, an MP3-compatible CD player (standard across the range), contoured sports seats and twin cupholders (front and rear);
• the Vectra CDX was fitted 17-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels; and,
• the Vectra CDXi received rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, memory settings for door mirrors and electrochromatic (anti-glare) rear view and door mirrors.

Related links

• Holden Media Archive: Holden’s New ZC Vectra (March 2003)
• Holden Media Archive: The 2004 Holden Vectra (January 2004)
• Holden Media Archive: Holden Vectra Getes V6 Power Across The Range (December 2004)
• Features: Holden ZC Vectra (May 2005)
• Wikipedia.org: Opel Vectra C

Overview

Released in June 1997, the front-wheel drive Holden JR Vectra was available as a mid-size sedan or liftback. Manufactured in Belgium, the Vectra sedan was powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, while the liftback models were also available with a 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine.

Engines: C20SEL and X25XE

Of the engines,

• The 2.0-litre ‘Family II’ C20SEL petrol engine had an iron block, an aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 9.6:1; and,
• The 2.5-litre X25XE V6 petrol engine differed in that it had a compression ratio of 10.8:1.

Transmission options consisted of five-speed manual and four-speed automatic units. The automatic transmission also had a ‘neutral idle’ function which would automatically engage neutral when the vehicle was stationary; first gear would then be selected when the brake pedal was released.

Dimensions and suspension

The JR Vectra sedan and liftback were 4477 mm long, 1707 mm wide, 1425 mm tall and had 2637 mm long wheelbases. The JR Vectra also had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with upper and lower transverse links.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Vectra GL included a driver’s airbag, ABS, traction control and front seatbelt pretensioners. The Vectra CD variants were further equipped with a front passenger airbag.

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 1997 Vectra – fitted with a 1.8-litre engine – and equipped with a driver’s airbag received a three star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 17.95, though the third star was struck out. In the offset crash test, protection from serious leg injury was poor for the driver and there was a moderate risk of serious chest injury; for the front passenger, chest protection was assessed as weak. In the side impact test, there was a high risk of life-threatening chest injury for the driver and a moderate risk of abdomen injury.

Features

Standard features for the Vectra GL included a six speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, 60/40 split and folding rear seats with a loading-through facility, remote central locking, power mirrors with heating, a height adjustable steering wheel and an immobiliser.

The Vectra CD variants were further equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, a glovebox cooler, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, illuminated vanity mirrors, power windows and a trip computer.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Opel Vectra B

Review: Holden JS.I Vectra (1998-99)

Overview

Released in August 1998, the Holden JS Series I (JS.I) Vectra was available as a mid-size sedan, wagon or liftback. Within the front-wheel drive JS.I Vectra range, the sedan and wagon were manufactured at Holden’s Elizabeth plant in South Australia, while the liftback continued to be imported from Belgium.

Engines: C20 SEL, C22SEL and X25XE

Of the engines,

• The sedan and wagon were powered by Holden’s 2.2-litre ‘Family II’ C22SEL petrol engine had an iron block, an aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 9.6:1;
• For liftback GL variants, the 2.0-litre C20SEL four-cylinder petrol engine had similar properties to the 2.2-litre C22SEL engine; and,
• For liftback CD variants, the 2.5-litre X25XE V6 petrol engine differed in that it had a compression ratio of 10.8:1.

Transmission options consisted of five-speed manual and four-speed automatic units.

Dimensions

The JS Vectra sedan and liftback were 4477 mm long, 1707 mm wide, 1425 mm tall and had 2637 mm long wheelbases; the JS Vectra wagon, however, was 23 mm longer (at 4490 mm) and 65 mm taller (1490 mm).

Suspension

The JS Vectra had MacPherson strut front suspension and independent rear suspension with upper and lower transverse links. Furthermore, the Australian-built sedans and wagons had unique suspension tuning, cabin trim and Bridgestone tyres that were selected for Australian conditions.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Vectra GL included a driver’s airbag and front seatbelt pretensioners; GL liftbacks, however, were also fitted with ABS and traction control.

The Vectra CD variants were fitted with dual front airbags, ABS, traction control and front seatbelt pretensioners as standard.

Features: Vectra GL and CD

Standard features for the Vectra GL included a six speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, 60/40 split and folding rear seats with a loading-through facility, remote central locking, power mirrors, a height adjustable steering wheel and immobiliser. Wagon models were also fitted with a retractable cargo blind, integrated roof rails and underfloor storage compartments.

The Vectra CD was further equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels, CD player, air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, power windows and a trip computer.

Review: Holden JS.II Vectra (1999-03)

Overview

Released in August 1999, the JS Series II (JS.II) Vectra introduced mechanical and cosmetic updates. The 2.2-litre petrol engines were revised for greater low-range torque and were combined with new five-speed Getrag manual transmissions. For the Australian built sedans and wagons, further changes included retuned suspension, a new hydraulic control valve for the power steering for better on-centre feel, and road noise was reduced with new bushings in the rear lower control arms and newly developed tyres.

Visually, the JS.II Vectra could be identified by its jewelled-finish halogen headlights, body-coloured bumpers, chrome grille surrounds, new door sills and larger door mirrors. Inside, there were new grey patterned trims, greater rear seat legroom due to sculpted front seat backrests and a new roof console behind the reading lights.

In November 2000, the range was revised as Australian production of the Vectra was discontinued: wagons and models with 2.0-litre engines were discontinued, while the 2.5-litre inline six cylinder engine was replaced with a 2.6-litre V6 unit (mated to either a four-speed automatic or five-speed Getrag manual transmission). The 2.6-litre V6 engine had a ‘coil over plug’ ignition system for more efficient spark control, revised pistons and a close-couple catalytic converter that reached operating temperature more rapidly. Models with the 2.6-litre V6 engine were also fitted with a unique front fascia with integrated fog lights.

Safety equipment

Compared to their JS.I predecessors, safety equipment was initially unchanged for the JS.II Vectra. From November 2000, however, standard safety equipment was upgraded to include ABS, traction control and active front seat head restraints.

Features

Compared to their JS.I predecessors, features were largely unchanged for the JS.II Vectra.

1999 Vectra Olympic editions

In September 1999, limited-run Olympic editions of the GL sedan and wagon were released. Compared to the standard GL sedan and wagon, the Olympic editions added 15-inch alloy wheels, CD player, air conditioning and ‘Olympic Edition’ badges.

The Olympic editions returned in July 2000; based on the GL sedan, these models were further equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows and ‘Olympic Edition’ badges.

2001 Vectra Equipe

In March 2001, limited-run Equipe editions of the GL sedan were released. Compared to the standard GL, the Equipe was fitted with six-spoke 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows and ‘Equipe’ badging. The GL Equipe sedan was solely available with a manual transmission. The Equipe editions returned in March 2002, but were also fitted with cruise control and available with automatic transmissions.

2001 Vectra International

In October 2001, limited-run International editions of the CD liftback were released. Compared to the standard CD liftback, the International was further equipped with ten-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, Ebony Black leather trim, a power sunroof and silver instrument console highlights. The International editions were available in Midnight Black and Star Silver paint finishes.

Related links

• Holden Media Archive: Holden’s Limited Edition Vectra Equipe (March 2001)
• Holden Media Archive: 2002 Holden Vectra Equipe (March 2002)
• Wikipedia.org: Opel Vectra B

Recalls: Holden JR Vectra

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Holden JR Vectra

• In October 1998, a recall was issued for Holden JR Vectra models manufactured between April 1997 and February 1998 and with serial numbers in teh range V5125546 to W5066141. In these vehicles, the brake fluid reservoir cap may allow water to enter the brake fluid reservoir, reducing braking efficacy (PRA 1998/3666).

Problems and faults: Holden JR Vectra

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Holden JR Vectra

• For Holden JR Vectra models with 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines, the timing belt drives the water pump. It is recommended that the water pump be changed at every second timing belt change – if the water pump fails, it can shed its impeller blades and seize, throwing off the belt.
• For Holden JR Vectra models with 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines, rough running or stalling may be attributable to erratic timing output from the crank sensor.
• For Holden JR Vectra models with 2.0-litre petrol engines, if the idle speed is in the range of 1200-2000 rpm, the air intake control valve require cleaning (with fuel system cleaner) or replacement and modification with an oil separator.
• For JR Vectra models with 2.2-litre petrol engines, the timing chain may snap if the lubrication jet becomes blocked – this may be caused by running on dirty oil or extended oil change intervals. From March 2002 (engine number 11065400), a larger oil spray nozzle was introduced to alleviate this problem.
• Spark plug leads deteriorate over time and are costly to replace.
• Clutch failure may be due to failure of a no return valve rather than the master cylinder or slave cylinder.
• If the air conditioning does not work, the air conditioning compressor may have failed – this is a common fault that is not prevented by regular air conditioning use.

Recalls: Holden JS Vectra

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Holden JS Vectra

• In October 1998, a recall was issued for Holden JS Vectra sedan and station wagon models built between July 1998 and September 1998 and in the VIN range L314383 to L378443. In these vehicles, the brake fluid reservoir cap may allow water to enter the brake fluid reservoir, reducing braking efficacy (PRA 1998/3669).
• In March 1999, a recall was issued for Holden JS Vectra sedan and wagon models built between July 1998 and December 1998 and serial numbers in the range L314383 and L406948. In these vehicles, the specified torque setting for the upper and lower controls arm to rear suspension arm bolts may not have been achieved in production – this could result in poor and unpredictable vehicle handling (PRA 1999/3960).
• In April 1999, a recall was issued for Holden JS Vectra hatch/liftback models built within August 1998 and February 1999 and with vehicle tag numbers in the range Y067450 to Y076366. In these vehicles, there may be insufficient weld penetration of the spot weld that attached the child restraint anchorage bracket to the rear panel (PRA 1999/3915).

Problems and faults: Holden JS Vectra

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Holden JS Vectra

• For Holden JS Vectra models with 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines, the timing belt drives the water pump. It is recommended that the water pump be changed at every second timing belt change – if the water pump fails, it can shed its impeller blades and seize, throwing off the belt.
• For Holden JS Vectra models with 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines, rough running or stalling may be attributable to erratic timing ouput from the crank sensor.
• For Holden JS Vectra models with 2.0-litre petrol engines, if the idle speed is in the range of 1200-2000 rpm, the air intake control valve require cleaning (with fuel system cleaner) or replacement and modification with an oil separator.
• For JS Vectra models with 2.2-litre petrol engines, the timing chain may snap if the lubrication jet becomes blocked – this may be caused by running on dirty oil or extended oil change intervals. From March 2002 (engine number 11065400), a larger oil spray nozzle was introduced to alleviate this problem.
• Spark plug leads deteriorate over time and are costly to replace.
• Clutch failure may be due to failure of a no return valve rather than the master cylinder or slave cylinder.
• If the air conditioning does not work, the air conditioning compressor may have failed – this is a common fault that is not prevented by regular air conditioning use.

Recalls: Holden ZC Vectra

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Holden ZC Vectra

• In November 2004, a recall was issued for Holden ZC Vectra vehicles due to a potentially loose exhaust clamp which secured the middle muffler to the front exhaust pipe; this could enable the muffler to separate from the front pipe (PRA 2004/7358).

Problems and faults: Holden ZC Vectra

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Holden ZC Vectra

• For Holden Vectra’s with the V6 engine, the cam belt requires changing every 60,000 kilometres or four years (whichever comes first) – failure to do so risks a belt failure and serious engine damage.
• Creaking noises from the front of the vehicle may be due to loose radiator mounts.

Released in March 2003, the Holden ZC Vectra was available as sedan or liftback. Manufactured in Russelsheim, Germany, the front-wheel drive ZC Vectra was available with either a 2.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine or a 3.2-litre petrol V6 engine and in CD, CDX and CDXi variants. Transmission options consisted of five-speed manual and five-speed automatic units… Read full Holden ZC Vectra review

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Released in June 1997, the front-wheel drive Holden JR Vectra was available as a mid-size sedan or liftback. Manufactured in Belgium, the Vectra sedan was powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, while the liftback models were also available with a 2.5-litre V6 petrol engine… Read full Holden JR Vectra review

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Released in August 1998, the Holden JS Series I (JS.I) Vectra was available as a mid-size sedan, wagon or liftback. Within the front-wheel drive JS.I Vectra range, the sedan and wagon were manufactured at Holden’s Elizabeth plant in South Australia, while the liftback remained imported from Belgium… Read full Holden JS Vectra review

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Images: Holden JS.II Vectra (1999-03)

Released in August 1999, the Holden JS Series II (JS.II) Vectra introduced mechanical and cosmetic updates. The 2.2-litre petrol engines were revised for greater low-range torque and were combined with new five-speed Getrag manual transmissions. For the Australian built sedans and wagons, further changes included retuned suspension, a new hydraulic control valve for the power steering for better on-centre feel, and road noise was reduced with new bushings in the rear lower control arms and newly developed tyres. The Holden JS.II Vectra could be identified by its jewelled-finish halogen headlights, body-coloured bumpers, chrome grille surrounds, new door sills and larger door mirrors. Inside, there were new grey patterned trims, greater rear seat legroom due to sculpted front seat backrests and a new roof console behind the reading lights

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Euro NCAP: Opel Vectra crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing, a 2002 Opel Vectra sedan – sold in Australia as the Holden Vectra – fitted with a 1.8-litre petrol engine received a four star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 29.86 when equipped with curtain airbags. For further information regarding this testing, please go to the Euro NCAP website. Videos are provided with the permission of Euro NCAP.

Men and Motors: 2002 Vauxhall Vectra review

Note

Please note that these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia. In the UK, the Vectra was sold as a Vauxhall rather than a Holden.

Men and Motors: 2002 Vauxhall ZC Vectra V6 – test drive and review