๐ท๏ธ Basic Information Identification Make: Opel Model: Astra Year: 1999 Codes Chassis Code: G (second generation) ๐ Introduction Market Position Positioning: A popular compact car in the European market, known for its practicality, comfort, and value. The 1999 model represents the second generation of the Astra, offering improved styling and technology over its predecessor. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Fiat Bravo, Peugeot 306, Renault Mรฉgane Key Features Features: Solid build quality, comfortable ride, range of efficient engines, spacious interior for its class, available in various body styles (hatchback, saloon, estate). Manual Value Proposition Value: Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and independent mechanics to perform a wide array of tasks, saving time and money compared to dealership servicing. ๐ Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Global (Europe, UK, Australia) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual) Manual Type Type: Full Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF ๐ Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system Transmission Drivetrain: Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drive axles, CV joints Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (front and rear discs/drums), ABS Electrical: Engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), lighting, instruments, infotainment, comfort systems, starting and charging system Body: Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, HVAC system Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement Repair: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper overhaul, starter motor replacement, alternator replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagram interpretation, component testing Electrical Service: Wiring diagrams for all systems, troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, connector identification Rebuilding: Detailed procedures for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and major component repairs Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams. ๐ Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Printability: Full Printable (designed for users to print specific sections or the entire manual) Binding Type Binding Type: Digital Download (no physical binding) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (digital format) Software Requirements Software: Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR (for potential archive decompression) Compatibility Operating Systems: Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac OS โ๏ธ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Variants: The Opel Astra 1999 (G platform) was offered with a variety of gasoline and diesel engines. Common gasoline engines included: 1.4L (X14XE), 1.6L (X16XEL, C16SEL), 1.8L (X18XE1, C18XEL), and 2.0L (X20XEV, C20XE, Z20LET - Turbocharged). Diesel engines included: 1.7L (DT, DTI), 2.0L (DTI, DTH - Turbocharged). Performance Horsepower Range: Approximately 60 hp (1.4L) to 192 hp (2.0 Turbocharged Z20LET) depending on the engine variant. Torque Range: Varies significantly by engine; e.g., 1.6L around 150 Nm, 2.0 Turbo around 250 Nm. Fuel System Type: Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines. Common rail direct injection (CRDI) or rotary pump injection for diesel engines. Ignition System Type: Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-Plug (COP) depending on engine variant. ๐ง Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed manual transmission was standard on most variants. Optional Transmission Type: Optional 4-speed automatic transmission available on many gasoline engine models. Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: Typically a GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid, with viscosity typically SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90. Specific part numbers and capacities are detailed within the manual. Automatic Transmission Fluid: Dexron III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid. Specific part numbers and capacities are detailed within the manual. ๐ Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon, 5-door estate (station wagon), convertible (Vectra B platform, but often associated with Astra family). Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 1150 kg to 1400 kg depending on body style and engine. ๐ก๏ธ Safety Features Ratings Euroncap Rating: The Astra G received a mixed bag of ratings from Euro NCAP for its time. Later models and specific configurations improved. For 1999, expect around 3 stars for adult occupant protection. Active Features Active Safety: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often optional or standard on higher trims. Traction Control System (TC) was available on some performance models. Passive Features Passive Safety: Driver and front passenger airbags were standard. Side airbags became available as an option on some models. Crumple zones and reinforced passenger cell designed to Euro safety standards of the era. ๐ก Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD players, often with steering wheel controls on higher trims. Optional upgraded speaker systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Available as an option on many models, particularly those with larger engines and higher trim levels. Connectivity Onboard Diagnostics: OBD-II compliant system for engine diagnostics and fault code retrieval, using a standard 16-pin connector....
A popular compact car in the European market, known for its practicality, comfort, and value. The 1999 model represents the second generation of the Astra, offering improved styling and technology over its predecessor.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Fiat Bravo, Peugeot 306, Renault Mรฉgane
Key Features
Features:
Solid build quality, comfortable ride, range of efficient engines, spacious interior for its class, available in various body styles (hatchback, saloon, estate).
Manual Value Proposition
Value:
Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and independent mechanics to perform a wide array of tasks, saving time and money compared to dealership servicing.
๐ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Global (Europe, UK, Australia)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Wiring diagrams for all systems, troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, connector identification
Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and major component repairs
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
๐ Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Printability:
Full Printable (designed for users to print specific sections or the entire manual)
Binding Type
Binding Type:
Digital Download (no physical binding)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (digital format)
Software Requirements
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR (for potential archive decompression)
Compatibility
Operating Systems:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac OS
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Variants:
The Opel Astra 1999 (G platform) was offered with a variety of gasoline and diesel engines. Common gasoline engines included: 1.4L (X14XE), 1.6L (X16XEL, C16SEL), 1.8L (X18XE1, C18XEL), and 2.0L (X20XEV, C20XE, Z20LET - Turbocharged). Diesel engines included: 1.7L (DT, DTI), 2.0L (DTI, DTH - Turbocharged).
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 60 hp (1.4L) to 192 hp (2.0 Turbocharged Z20LET) depending on the engine variant.
Torque Range:
Varies significantly by engine; e.g., 1.6L around 150 Nm, 2.0 Turbo around 250 Nm.
Fuel System
Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline engines. Common rail direct injection (CRDI) or rotary pump injection for diesel engines.
Ignition System
Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-Plug (COP) depending on engine variant.
๐ง Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission was standard on most variants.
Optional
Transmission Type:
Optional 4-speed automatic transmission available on many gasoline engine models.
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch.
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Typically a GL-4 rated manual transmission fluid, with viscosity typically SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90. Specific part numbers and capacities are detailed within the manual.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid. Specific part numbers and capacities are detailed within the manual.
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon, 5-door estate (station wagon), convertible (Vectra B platform, but often associated with Astra family).
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1150 kg to 1400 kg depending on body style and engine.
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
Euroncap Rating:
The Astra G received a mixed bag of ratings from Euro NCAP for its time. Later models and specific configurations improved. For 1999, expect around 3 stars for adult occupant protection.
Active Features
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often optional or standard on higher trims. Traction Control System (TC) was available on some performance models.
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Driver and front passenger airbags were standard. Side airbags became available as an option on some models. Crumple zones and reinforced passenger cell designed to Euro safety standards of the era.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette or CD players, often with steering wheel controls on higher trims. Optional upgraded speaker systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on many models, particularly those with larger engines and higher trim levels.
Connectivity
Onboard Diagnostics:
OBD-II compliant system for engine diagnostics and fault code retrieval, using a standard 16-pin connector.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific engine/oil recommendations. Using synthetic oil can often extend intervals.
Timing Belt Interval:
For engines with a timing belt (e.g., 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.8L X18XE1), replacement is usually recommended every 80,000 to 120,000 km or 5-6 years, whichever comes first. This is critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Intervals vary by spark plug type (copper, platinum, iridium) but generally range from 30,000 km (copper) to 100,000 km (iridium).
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
G12 (purple) or G11 (blue/green) ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Always use the correct type and mix with distilled water. Capacity approximately 6-7 liters.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1. Regular flushing (every 2 years) is recommended. Capacity approximately 1 liter.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Specific hydraulic fluid (often Dexron III or a dedicated power steering fluid). Consult manual for precise specification. Capacity approximately 1-1.5 liters.
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Ignition coil pack failure (causing misfires), ABS sensor issues, wear in front suspension components (e.g., wishbone bushes, drop links), oil leaks from valve cover gasket or sump, EGR valve issues on diesel engines, central locking problems, occasional ECU faults.
Filter Part Numbers
Oil Filter:
Part numbers vary by engine, but common examples include Mahle OC264, Bosch 0986452056, Mann-Filter W719/5.
Air Filter:
Part numbers vary by engine, but common examples include Mann-Filter C27153, Bosch 1987429437.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Opel Heritage:
Opel, a German automotive manufacturer, has a long history dating back to 1898, known for producing reliable and well-engineered vehicles. Part of General Motors for much of this period, it benefited from shared technology and global reach.
Model Evolution
Astra G Evolution:
The second generation Astra (G) was introduced in 1998, replacing the Astra F. It was a significant step forward in design, chassis dynamics, and safety. It was produced until 2004 in Europe and continued in some markets under different badges (e.g., Chevrolet Viva).
Production
Production Period:
1998-2004 (Europe)
Production Locations
Locations:
Mainly Germany (e.g., Rรผsselsheim), UK (as Vauxhall Astra), and other Opel/GM plants globally.
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Model Awards:
The Opel/Vauxhall Astra G generally received positive reviews for its ride and handling, often ranking well in its segment in road tests. Specific 'Car of the Year' awards might not be prominent for this generation, but it was a consistent performer in industry evaluations.