Vectra Dashboard Flickers, Software or Alternator Issue?

Hey there, I had a similar issue with my '09 Vauxhall Astra (also petrol). The symptoms you're describing sound exactly like what I experienced last month. The dashboard flickering and warning lights were driving me crazy. Took it to my regular mechanic, and it turned out the Engine Control Unit (ECU) needed replacing. But here's the important part, it's not just about swapping the unit. The new ECU had to be properly programmed to match my specific vehicle. The first garage I went to actually replaced the ECU but didn't program it correctly, which caused more problems. Found a specialist garage that deals with Vauxhall electrical systems, and they sorted it properly. The whole process took about a day, they had to use specific diagnostic equipment to program the new ECU to communicate with all the car's systems. It's definitely a job that needs proper expertise and the right diagnostic tools. Not every mechanic can handle ECU programming, so I'd recommend finding someone who specializes in Vauxhall electrical systems. It was a serious issue that needed fixing right away to prevent further electrical problems. Hope this helps.

Thanks that's really helpful info! Sounds exactly like what I'm dealing with. I've been worried about taking it to another garage after my bad experience, but what you're saying about the ECU makes a lot of sense. Can't remember, did you mention how much you ended up paying for the whole job? Also, curious if you've had any other electrical gremlins pop up since getting it fixed? I'll definitely look for someone who knows their Vauxhalls properly this time. Cheers!

Hey again! Just to follow up, yeah, after getting it properly sorted at the specialist garage, all those annoying electrical issues completely disappeared! Got my peace of mind back, and the car's running like a dream now. The whole thing set me back 240€ for the ECU replacement and programming, bit of a hit to the wallet but totally worth it considering what a headache those flickering lights were! And nope, no more electrical gremlins since then *knocks on wood*. The key really was finding someone who knew what they were doing with the software side of things. The first garage that botched it just swapped the ECU without proper programming, rookie mistake! My specialist really knew their stuff with Vauxhall's systems and got everything talking to each other properly. Quick tip: if you're in the market for a specialist, make sure they've got the proper Vauxhall diagnostic equipment. That's what made all the difference in my case. Let me know how you get on with yours! Always happy to help a fellow Vauxhall owner.

Just wanted to update everyone, took your advice and found a specialist Vauxhall garage. what a difference! Took my Vectra in last week, and you were spot on about the ECU. They showed me exactly what was wrong, the old unit was shot and needed a full replacement plus proper programming. Cost me around 260€ all in, which wasn't as bad as I was expecting. The best part? No more flickering dashboard or warning lights! It's like driving a different car now. The mechanic really knew his stuff, even showed me all the diagnostic readings before and after. Really glad I asked here and didn't just settle for that first dodgy garage. Sometimes you've got to spend a bit more to get things done right. Thanks again for pointing me in the right direction, saved me a lot of hassle! Take care all!