Vauxhall GrandlandX's Electrical Mystery: Dead eCall or More?

Hey there! I had very similar issues with my 2019 Vauxhall CrosslandX last summer. The symptoms you're describing are exactly what I experienced, sluggish starts, dim lights, and general electrical weirdness. Took it to my regular garage, and it turned out to be more than just the eCall battery. The main alternator was failing to charge the battery properly, which was causing a chain reaction of electrical problems. The mechanic showed me how the alternator wasn't putting out the correct voltage. Had to get both the alternator replaced and a new main battery installed. It was quite a serious job since the alternator is a crucial component, it basically keeps all your electrical systems running and your battery charged while driving. After the fix, all the electrical issues disappeared completely. Would definitely recommend getting it checked soon, as driving with a failing alternator can leave you stranded if the battery dies completely.

Cheers! Thanks for sharing your experience, it's really helpful to know it was the alternator in your case. Mine's behaving exactly like you described. Do you remember roughly how much you ended up paying for the whole job? Also, has everything been running smoothly since the repair, or have you noticed any other niggles?

Hey again! Always happy to help a fellow Vauxhall owner. I completely get why you're asking about the costs, car repairs can be a real pain in the wallet! For my CrosslandX, the total came to around £780, that covered the new alternator, labor, and the main battery replacement. But here's some good news on my end, I actually just got back from my mechanic last week because of that Emergency Call system battery warning, and they sorted that for €110. Much cheaper than the alternator job, thankfully! As for how it's been running since the alternator repair, honestly, it's been absolutely spot on. No more electrical gremlins, starts first time every time, and all the lights are bright as they should be. The recent eCall battery fix was just routine maintenance really, nothing major like that alternator issue.

Thanks a lot for all the detailed info! I actually went ahead and got my GrandlandX checked out yesterday at a local garage that another recommended. Turns out you were spot on, it was the alternator causing all the trouble. Got it replaced along with a new battery, and the whole thing set me back about £800, pretty similar to what you paid. The mechanic I found was brilliant actually, really took the time to explain everything and even showed me the worn-out alternator. He's been working on Vauxhalls for 15 years, so I feel like I've finally found a trustworthy mechanic! Just took the car for a spin this morning and what a difference! The engine starts up instantly, and all the lights are properly bright again. Feels like I'm driving a different car altogether. Really appreciate all your help and advice. Sometimes these car troubles turn out to be blessings in disguise, got my car fixed and found a reliable mechanic in the process! Cheers!