Born from a close collaboration between Opel and Renault, the Opel Vivaro has established itself as a benchmark light commercial vehicle. Unveiled at the Brussels Light Commercial Vehicle Show and launched in 2001, it has sold over one million units across three generations, right through to the fully electric Vivaro-e. Even built to last, its transmission can develop a fault. EDEN BOITES is here to help you with the repair of the Opel gearbox in your Vivaro.
How Vivaro Gearboxes Work
What Makes the Vivaro Different
At launch, the Vivaro featured front-wheel drive and a 1.9 L diesel engine producing 80 or 100 bhp, paired exclusively with a five-speed manual gearbox. A six-speed automatic gearbox arrived in 2006 with the 2.5 CDTI 145. The 2.0 16V petrol engine producing 120 bhp was discontinued in 2012, making way for diesel and then electric powertrains. To understand what sets these options apart, read our guide on the differences between a manual and an automatic gearbox.
Looking After Your Vivaro Gearbox
Whatever the type of gearbox, smooth driving preserves the mechanics. With a manual gearbox, pay attention to engine noise and the rev counter to change gear at the right moment; the clutch pedal must be fully depressed before selecting a gear, then released gradually. With an automatic gearbox, make sure the vehicle is completely stationary before engaging park or reverse.
Repairing My Vivaro Gearbox
Identifying a Fault
Several symptoms point to a problem: dull grinding noises suggest worn bearings; crunching when changing gear indicates worn synchromesh rings; gears that refuse to engage may be caused by a disconnected gear linkage; and a gear that engages on its own points to a faulty linkage or worn synchromeshes.
What to Do When a Fault Occurs
Low transmission fluid is often the culprit: without adequate lubrication, the internal components struggle to turn freely. Start by warming the engine up with a short drive to circulate the oil, then park the vehicle, remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check that the level sits between the two marks and that the fluid remains clear and amber in colour.
Where to Buy a New Vivaro Gearbox
For a serious fault, a professional assessment is essential. If a full replacement is necessary, choose an economical and environmentally friendly solution: our catalogue of reconditioned gearboxes and the Opel gearbox range offer a wide selection of units sold on an exchange basis. Simply locate the reference number stamped on your old unit to confirm compatibility. Drivers of other light commercials may also find our articles on the Opel Movano gearbox and the Opel Combo gearbox useful.
Spotting Early Warning Signs
Used intensively, the Vivaro clocks up the miles quickly, making it all the more important to keep a close eye on the transmission. A stiff gear change, a recurring crunch, or difficulty engaging reverse should never be ignored. The earlier a fault is detected, the simpler and more cost-effective the repair. Note the circumstances in which symptoms appear and pass this information on to your mechanic, who will be able to pinpoint the component at fault. Combined with regular transmission fluid checks, this vigilance will often save you from a breakdown that puts the vehicle out of action — particularly damaging for a commercial vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Vivaro Related to Other Light Commercials?
Yes: born from the Opel-Renault collaboration, it shares its platform with the Citroën Jumpy, Peugeot Expert and Toyota Proace in the latest generation.
How Do I Check the Transmission Fluid?
After warming the engine up, use the dipstick to check that the level sits between the two marks and that the fluid remains clear and amber in colour.
What Warranty Comes with a Reconditioned Vivaro Gearbox?
Our gearboxes are warranted for up to 24 months and covered by a satisfaction-or-money-back guarantee in accordance with our Terms and Conditions.
What Are the Payment and Delivery Options?
Payment can be spread over multiple instalments, in up to 10 instalments. We deliver throughout France and the European Union, with lead times confirmed on quote.
Why Choose EDEN BOITES?
EDEN BOITES offers thousands of reconditioned gearboxes sold on an exchange basis, all checked and tested. Identify your reference, browse our Opel gearboxes and request an online quote: our experts will get back to you promptly, with no obligation.
