The GM 1.6 litre CDTI family (B16DTH, B16DTL, B16DTE) was fitted to the Astra J, the Astra K and the Insignia. The timing chain and the tensioner wear.
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The design of the early tensioner does not hold the oil pressure with the engine standing, so on a cold start the chain rattles metallically until the pressure builds. That rattle speeds up wear of the chain and the guides. If it is neglected, the chain can jump and the engine is badly damaged inside. The repair often requires removing the gearbox, because the chain sits on the gearbox side, so the labour is the bigger part of the bill.
It shows up on cars from around 2009 to 2018. If the rattle when cold lasts longer than a flash, the chain and the guides are wearing.
between 100,000 and 200,000 km
What to check
- Insist on a cold start: a metallic rattle from the back of the engine or the gearbox side is suspect
- If the rattle lasts longer than 1 to 2 seconds, or comes back when warm: do not take the car without an inspection
- Ask whether the chain kit (chain plus tensioner plus guides) was replaced, and whether they got an improved tensioner
