Opel · 2012–2019
Common Opel Mokka problems, and how to check them
These are the 3 faults owners and garages report most often on the Opel Mokka, from the most common down. For each one: what goes wrong, how to check it yourself, and the usual fix, so you know what you’re dealing with before you buy parts.
Fact-checked by a licensed car technician · last reviewed 28 September 2026
Problem 1
Opel Mokka: Blocked particulate filter on short trips
What goes wrong
Driven mostly on short trips, the diesel particulate filter never gets hot enough to burn off its soot and blocks up.
How to check it yourself
Read the soot load and differential-pressure sensor with a diagnostic tool; check the pressure sensor pipes aren’t split.
The usual fix
A long drive or forced regeneration clears a partly full filter; a blocked one needs cleaning or replacing.
Signs: Loss of power, Check engine light
Fault codes: P2002, P2463, P244A
Problem 2
Opel Mokka: Whistle, rough idle, and oil use: failed breather in the cam cover
What goes wrong
The crankcase breather (PCV) diaphragm built into the plastic cam cover splits, so the engine sucks in air: a whistle, unstable idle, lean codes, and oil use.
How to check it yourself
With the engine idling, remove the oil filler cap: strong suction or a change in idle points to the diaphragm. Listen for a whistle from the top of the engine.
The usual fix
Replace the cam cover with the breather built in (it isn’t sold separately on most cars).
Signs: Rough idle, High oil consumption, Check engine light
Fault codes: P0171, P0507
Problem 3
Opel Mokka: Water pump failure that can throw the timing belt
What goes wrong
The water pump is driven by the timing belt; when its bearing or impeller fails it can knock the belt off and damage the valves.
How to check it yourself
Look for coolant traces below the timing cover and listen for bearing noise; ask when the timing belt and pump were last changed.
The usual fix
Always replace the water pump together with the timing belt and tensioner at the service interval.
Signs: Coolant loss, Engine overheating
Recalls for the Mokka
The most recent recalls registered with the RDW, the Dutch vehicle authority, across all generations of the Mokka. Not every recall covers every car: a dealer can check yours with the VIN (chassis number), and recall repairs are free.
Insufficient space for electrical components
There may be insufficient space between the petrol particulate filter line and the protective cap on the positive terminal of the 48v belt starter generator.
Possible consequence: This can cause a short circuit under humid conditions, increasing the risk of fire in the engine compartment.
The fix: The vehicle owner is requested to make an appointment with a brand dealer. They will replace the protective cap on the positive terminal of the belt starter generator. If necessary, the positioning of the petrol particulate filter line will be adjusted. If the line is damaged, it will be replaced.
Source: RDW open data, translated automatically from Dutch.
General guidance, not a professional inspection. Confirm faults with measurements before buying parts, and use a qualified mechanic for brakes, steering, fuel leaks, airbags, and other safety-critical work. Terms and disclaimer