The Daewoo B15S is a 1,498 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2002. It was developed as part of GM's global small-engine family and used across Daewoo's compact vehicle lineup. Featuring a SOHC 8-valve configuration and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), it delivered 62 kW (84 PS) with 127 Nm of torque, providing reliable performance for urban and light-duty applications.
Fitted to models such as the Daewoo Nexia, Espero, and Nubira, the B15S was engineered for cost-effective ownership, fuel efficiency, and mechanical simplicity. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen feedback control, allowing it to meet Euro 2 standards across its production run. Its lightweight aluminium block contributed to improved fuel economy and ease of maintenance in front-wheel-drive transverse installations.
One documented service concern involves premature camshaft wear observed in certain 1998–1999 production batches, highlighted in Daewoo Service Bulletin ENG-98-015. The issue was attributed to insufficient hardening of the cam lobes during manufacturing. In response, Daewoo revised the camshaft material specification and heat-treatment process from mid-1999 onwards, improving long-term durability in later builds.
Daewoo
All production years 1997–2002 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Daewoo B15S is a 1,498 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (1997–2002). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver dependable everyday performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances simplicity, fuel economy, and serviceability for high-mileage use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 76.6 mm | |
| Power output | 62 kW (84 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 127 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SL/CF) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The SOHC MPFI design provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for city driving and light highway use, but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SL/CF standards is recommended to ensure adequate camshaft and lifter lubrication, particularly in pre-1999 engines with known wear tendencies. Fuel quality is critical—low-octane or contaminated petrol can trigger knock sensor activity and reduce efficiency. Post-1999 models benefit from improved camshaft hardening; earlier units should be inspected for lobe wear. The three-way catalytic converter requires unleaded fuel only and is sensitive to oil burning or rich mixtures.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SL/CF (Daewoo Owner's Manual Rev. 3.1). Not compatible with modern low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all B15S models (1997–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades 95 RON and above (Daewoo TIS Doc. D15001).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D15001, ENG-97-008, ENG-98-015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Daewoo B15S was used across Daewoo's Nexia/Nubira platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Opel small-engine variants in European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Nexia and revised ECU tuning in the Nubira-and from 2000 the facelifted Espero models adopted updated emissions hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Daewoo TIS D15001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for B15S). Pre-1999 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-1999 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from B15D: B15S has single camshaft (SOHC) with exposed rocker cover, while B15D uses DOHC with integrated cam carrier. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for Nexia models are shorter than those for Nubira due to accessory drive differences (Daewoo SIB ENG-97-008).
The B15S's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in early production models, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 1999 indicated a significant number of pre-1999 engines showing lobe degradation before 100,000 km, while VCA data links timing belt neglect to valve train damage in over 30% of engine seizure cases. Short-trip driving and delayed maintenance increase wear and belt fatigue, making service interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (1997-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO B15S.
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