Market Position:
The Opel Frontera (U99 generation) was positioned as a compact to mid-size SUV, known for its ruggedness and off-road capability, often competing with vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Ford Escape in various markets.
Competitive Analysis:
The Frontera offered a more utilitarian and robust alternative to some unibody SUVs of its era, appealing to buyers who prioritized practicality and a more traditional SUV feel. Its availability with robust four-wheel-drive systems further cemented its appeal in this segment.
Key Features:
Body-on-frame construction (typically), available four-wheel drive, versatile interior space, towing capability, solid off-road performance for its class.
Coverage Areas:
All systems and components of the Opel Frontera, including engine, transmission, drivetrain, chassis, suspension, brakes, steering, electrical system, body, and interior. Specific focus on repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and adjustments.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging.
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission, clutch, transfer case, driveshafts, axles.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, hydraulic, parking brake).
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, power accessories, body electrical, engine control module (ECM), anti-theft system.
Body And Interior:
Body construction, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, exterior trim, bumpers, glass.
Climate Control HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, ventilation controls, refrigerant handling procedures.
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, bulb types and replacement procedures.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance checks, fluid level checks, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-up procedures, tire rotation.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, assembly, and installation of all vehicle components.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex problems, including wiring diagrams and flowcharts.
Adjustment Procedures:
Specifications and procedures for adjusting brakes, clutch, parking brake, suspension, steering, and engine components.
Diagnostics Procedures:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system reading, fault code interpretation, component testing procedures, live data interpretation.
Wheel Alignment Specifications:
Camber, caster, toe-in, thrust angle specifications for front and rear axles.
Tire Pressure Recommendations:
Front and rear tire pressure settings based on load and tire size.
Paint And Body Repair:
Information on body panel removal and installation, rust prevention, dent repair, and paint code identification.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic information and specifications.
Schematics Included:
Detailed electrical schematics, vacuum diagrams, and hydraulic circuit diagrams.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners, including cylinder head bolts, suspension components, engine mounts, and wheel lug nuts.
Primary Engine Options:
2.2L (X22SE) I4 Petrol, 3.2L (6VD1) V6 Petrol, 2.0L (C20NE) I4 Petrol (earlier models may vary, but U99 focused on 2.2L and 3.2L), 2.2L DTI I4 Diesel (Y22DTH).
2.2L I4 Petrol Horsepower:
Approx. 136-140 PS (134-138 hp)
3.2L V6 Petrol Horsepower:
Approx. 205-215 PS (202-212 hp)
2.2L Dti Diesel Horsepower:
Approx. 118-125 PS (116-123 hp)
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for petrol engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi) for diesel engines.
Engine Codes Petrol:
X22SE (2.2L), 6VD1 (3.2L V6).
Engine Codes Diesel:
Y22DTH (2.2L DTI).
Exterior Dimensions Long Wheelbase Approx:
Length: ~4780 mm, Width: ~1760 mm, Height: ~1740 mm
Exterior Dimensions Short Wheelbase Approx:
Length: ~4340 mm, Width: ~1760 mm, Height: ~1730 mm
Curb Weight Approx:
1700 - 1900 kg (depending on engine and configuration)
Towing Capacity Approx:
Up to 2000 kg (braked trailer)
Oil Change Interval Petrol:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact interval based on driving conditions).
Oil Change Interval Diesel:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact interval based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km or as needed based on operating environment.
Fuel Filter Replacement Diesel:
Every 30,000 - 40,000 km or as specified in manual.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ or higher, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4. Viscosity grade typically 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 (check manual for specific engine requirements).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a long-life silicate-free type (e.g., Dex-Cool equivalent). Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for precise specification).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 gear oil, typically 75W-90 viscosity.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent power steering fluid.
Differential Fluid Front Rear:
API GL-5 gear oil, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90 viscosity. Specific manual verification recommended.
Transfer Case Fluid:
API GL-4 gear oil, typically 75W-90 viscosity, or specific transfer case fluid as recommended by manufacturer.
Common Issues:
Rust and corrosion (especially around wheel arches and chassis), suspension wear (bushings, ball joints), potential issues with electronic components, diesel engine injector pump (on some diesel variants), automatic transmission shifting issues.
Electrical System Issues:
Flickering dashboard lights, window regulator failures, issues with central locking systems.
Brand Heritage:
Opel, a German automotive manufacturer founded in 1862, has a long history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from small cars to commercial vehicles. Its SUVs often leveraged General Motors' global platforms.
Model Evolution:
The Opel Frontera, first introduced in 1991, was based on the Isuzu Rodeo. The second generation (U99), launched in 1998, continued this relationship with Isuzu (specifically the Isuzu MU Wizard/Rodeo). It offered improved styling, updated engines, and enhanced features over its predecessor.
Body Styles Available:
Offered in both 3-door (short wheelbase) and 5-door (long wheelbase) configurations.
Production Location:
The Opel Frontera (U99) was primarily manufactured in Ellesmere Port, United Kingdom (for European markets) and also in other GM facilities depending on the region. It was sold globally under various GM brands.