Vauxhall Calibra (1989-97)

The **Vauxhall Calibra** had its fair share of common issues. Here are some to be aware of:

1. **Fault Codes and Sensors**:
- **Clearing Fault Codes**: To clear fault codes, you can either disconnect the battery for about 30 minutes or use a code reader to erase them¹.
- **Crankshaft Sensor**: Issues related to the crankshaft sensor (code 0335) can cause stalling. Ensure you're using a reliable sensor¹.
- **Cam Sensor**: Code 0340 indicates a cam sensor issue. Check the wiring, resistance, and plug. Using an original sensor is recommended¹.

2. **Immobilizer Fault**:
- Despite the immobilizer code (1503), your car still runs. Investigate any wiring issues related to the immobilizer system¹.

3. **Corrosion**:
- The Calibra's corrosion resistance improved with galvanized shells from 1995 onward. Still, examine panels for rust, especially behind the rear bumper and in the front bulkhead⁴.

Remember to address these issues promptly to keep your Calibra running smoothly!
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Generations
The **Vauxhall Calibra** had **one generation**, produced between 1989 and 1997. It was marketed as the Vauxhall Calibra in the United Kingdom, Chevrolet Calibra in South America, and Holden Calibra in Australia and New Zealand. The Calibra shared its running gear with the first-generation Opel Vectra.
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Body Style/Variants
The **Vauxhall Calibra** had several versions during its production, each with its unique features and styling. Here are some notable ones:

1. **Tickford**: Introduced in October 1991, only 26 Calibras were ever converted under this special edition. It featured an interior upgrade and alloy wheels.
2. **SE 8v**: Produced from October 1992 to August 1993, this version included features like Caribic Blue paint, alloys, and velour/leather upholstery.
3. **SE2 16v**: Available from September 1993 to April 1994, it came in Solar Yellow with leather seats and alloy wheels.
4. **SE3 8v**: Produced from May to August 1994, this version featured Rioja pearl paint.
5. **SE4 8v**: From January to June 1995, it had Magnetic Blue pearl paint, cream seats, and alloys.
6. **DTM**: Introduced in May 1995, this edition included Chequer cloth or Anthracite leather, lowered suspension, and alloy wheels.
7. **SE5 8v**: Produced from November 1995 to March 1996, it featured black paint, cream leather, and lowered suspension.
8. **SE6 8v**: Available from April to June 1996, it came in Iceland Blue pearl with cream leather, air conditioning, and alloys.
9. **Turbo LE**: Introduced in August 1996, this version had black paint, lowered suspension, BBS alloys, heated leather seats, air conditioning, and a special plaque.
10. **SE7 16v**: With only 33 units built, it featured Magic Grey pearl paint, cream heated leather seats, air conditioning, and alloys.
11. **SE8 16v**: Produced from Magnetic Blue pearl, Anthracite cloth, air conditioning, and alloys.
12. **SE9 V6**: Available in Flame Red with Anthracite leather and BBS alloys.

Additionally, there were prototype convertibles and other Opel specials in Continental Europe, including the Keke Rosberg edition, Cliff, Colour, and Last.
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Trim Levels
The Vauxhall Calibra, produced from 1989 to 1997, came in several trim levels and special editions. Here are some of the key ones:

1. **Base Models**:
- **2.0 8v**: Basic model with an 8-valve engine.
- **2.0 16v**: Upgraded with a 16-valve engine.
- **2.0 16v 4x4**: Added four-wheel drive for better traction.

2. **Performance Models**:
- **2.0 16v Turbo 4x4**: Turbocharged engine with four-wheel drive.
- **2.5 V6**: Featured a more powerful V6 engine.

3. **Special Editions**:
- **SE (Special Edition)**: Various versions like SE2, SE3, SE4, etc., each with unique features and limited production runs.
- **DTM Edition**: Inspired by the German Touring Car Championship, with sporty enhancements.
- **Turbo LE**: Limited edition with high-end features like BBS alloys and heated leather seats¹²⁴.

These trims and editions offered a range of features from basic to high-performance, catering to different preferences and needs.
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Engines
The **Vauxhall Calibra** featured several engine options during its production:

1. **2.0 8V**: A two-liter eight-valve engine.
2. **2.0 16V**: A 16-valve version of the two-liter engine.
3. **2.0 16V Turbo**: A turbocharged variant with 198bhp and four-wheel drive.
4. **V6**: The V6 engine option.
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Spares
Certainly! If you're looking for **Vauxhall Calibra** spare parts in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **Autopartspro.co.uk**:
- Offers a wide range of original Calibra spares at competitive prices.
- Categories include brakes, filters, suspension, electrics, bodywork, and more.
- Fast and free shipping available¹.
- [Visit Autopartspro.co.uk](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/vauxhall-calibra-carparts)

2. **EU-SPARES**:
- Browse their online shop for Calibra parts.
- Select your vehicle type and specify your model to find the right parts².
- [Explore EU-SPARES](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/vauxhall/calibra/calibra)

3. **Breakeryard**:
- Find new and used Vauxhall Calibra parts.
- Search by registration or make and model.
- Great quality parts at affordable prices³.
- [Check Breakeryard](https://www.breakeryard.com/car-parts/vauxhall/calibra)
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Specialists
**NORTHERN IRELAND VAUXHALL SPECIALIST LIST**

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars
o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website
2. Wilsons of Rathkenny
o Address: 371 Cushendall Road, Ballymena BT43 6QB
o Phone: 028 2175 8177
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Townparks Car Sales Antrim
o Address: Springfarm Industrial Estate, Antrim BT41 4NZ
o Phone: 028 9446 2506
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. NI Vans
o Address: 1 Ashtree Hill, Craigavon BT62 2LH
o Phone: 028 3884 9777
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 - 17:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. McMullan Auto Services
o Address: 2 Moy Road, Armagh BT61 8DL
o Phone: 028 3752 2911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. Ballyrobert Vauxhall
o Address: 402 Bangor Road, Bangor BT19 1UE
o Phone: 028 9127 2701
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Donnelly Group
o Address: 62 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6LR
o Phone: 028 9038 1729
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Lochside Garages
o Address: 101 Irvinestown Road, Enniskillen BT74 6GQ
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Higgins Autos
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
Lloyd Cooke Motors
o Address: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o Phone: 028 7130 2100
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 14:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. Donnelly Group
o Address: Maydown Carrakeel Drive, Maydown, Derry/Londonderry BT47 6UQ
o Phone: 028 7122 6386
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday by appointment only
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly Group
o Address: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. McMullan Autobreakers
o Address: 15 Melmount Road, Sion Mills, Strabane BT82 9ET
o Phone: 028 8165 9500
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website
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Racing
Yes, the Vauxhall Calibra was indeed raced, particularly in touring car championships. Here are some key highlights:

1. **Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM)**: The Calibra was a prominent competitor in the DTM during the 1990s. It was driven by notable drivers such as Manuel Reuter, who won the championship in 1996.

2. **International Touring Car Championship (ITC)**: The Calibra also competed in the ITC, which was an international extension of the DTM. It achieved significant success in this series as well.

3. **British Touring Car Championship (BTCC)**: While not as dominant as in the DTM, the Calibra also made appearances in the BTCC, showcasing its versatility and performance.

The racing versions of the Calibra were extensively modified to meet the demands of competitive racing, including enhancements to the engine, suspension, and aerodynamics.

The Vauxhall Calibra had a notable presence in motorsport, particularly in touring car championships. Here are some key highlights of its racing achievements:

1. **Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM)**:
- The Calibra was a prominent competitor in the DTM during the 1990s.
- In 1996, Manuel Reuter drove the Calibra to win the DTM championship, showcasing the car's performance and reliability¹.

2. **International Touring Car Championship (ITC)**:
- The Calibra also competed in the ITC, which was an international extension of the DTM.
- It achieved significant success in this series as well, further cementing its reputation as a competitive racing car¹.

3. **British Touring Car Championship (BTCC)**:
- While not as dominant as in the DTM, the Calibra made appearances in the BTCC, demonstrating its versatility and performance².

### Technical Modifications
The racing versions of the Calibra were extensively modified to meet the demands of competitive racing. These modifications included:
- **Enhanced Aerodynamics**: Improved bodywork to reduce drag and increase downforce.
- **Upgraded Suspension**: To handle the rigors of racing and improve handling.
- **Powerful Engines**: Tuned for higher performance, often featuring turbocharging.

These achievements and modifications helped the Vauxhall Calibra become a respected name in motorsport during its racing years.