Opel

Opel parts have changed from one generation to the next, and identification leaves no room for approximation

From 1998 to 2025, the Opel catalogue underwent several major technical shifts: the Y and X engine families of the 2000s gave way to the Z, then A, B and D families, while transmissions evolved from 5-speed manual gearboxes to 6-speed units, with the introduction of the automated manual Easytronic and then the Tecshift on light commercial vehicles. The same engine capacity — the 1.7 CDTi being the clearest example — covers distinct engine codes depending on power output and year: Y17DT, Z17DTL, Z17DTH, A17DTJ, A17DTR and A17DTS are not interchangeable. Checking the engine code stamped on the block remains the only way to avoid ordering the wrong part.

Gearboxes, engines and turbos: three part families across sixteen models

The range covers three part families: gearboxes, bare engines and turbos. The most widely represented models are the Vivaro and the Astra, followed by the Corsa, Meriva and Movano. On certain generations, the Vivaro and Movano share engine blocks and gearboxes with Renault (codes F9Q, G9U, M9T, R9M…), which means cross-referencing the Opel engine code with the Renault reference is essential to confirm exact compatibility. The Mokka, Insignia and Crossland, meanwhile, feature PSA or jointly developed engines (1.6 CDTi codes B16DTH/D16DTH, 1.2 Turbo codes B12XHT/D12XHT, 1.5 CDTi DV5RC) that were absent from earlier generations of the brand.

Key points to check by engine type and part category

On Easytronic automated manual gearboxes (Corsa, Meriva, Astra) and Tecshift (Vivaro), the part is sold without the actuator or control unit: these electronic components are handled separately. The 2.0 CDTi and 2.3 CDTi (codes A20DTH, B20DTH, M9T…) fitted to the Vivaro, Movano and Insignia are frequently sought as reconditioned exchange units, as are the turbos for the 1.7 CDTi and 1.9 CDTi on the Astra and Zafira. For petrol engines, the 1.4 Turbo spans no fewer than ten different codes (A14NEL, A14NET, B14NEH, B14NET, B14XFT, D14NEL, D14NET…) depending on year and model: the Astra J, Corsa D and Corsa E do not all use the same block as the Meriva B. Browsing by model and then by specific engine type remains the most reliable way to find the correct reference.