The Daewoo B18S is a 1,796 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2002. It was developed as part of GM's Family 1 engine series and features a cast-iron block with an aluminium DOHC 16-valve head. Equipped with multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) and distributorless ignition, it delivered 98 kW (133 PS) and 165 Nm of torque, providing balanced performance for compact and mid-size sedans.
Fitted to models such as the Daewoo Espero, Nubira, and Leganza, the B18S was engineered for smooth daily driving with an emphasis on reliability and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen feedback control, allowing it to meet Euro 2 standards across European markets during its production run.
One documented service concern involves premature camshaft wear observed in early B18S units, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-1805, is attributed to marginal oil flow to the upper valvetrain in certain production batches. Later revisions incorporated modified oil gallery drilling and improved lifters to mitigate the risk.
Daewoo
Production years 1997–2000 meet Euro 2 standards; 2001–2002 models comply with Euro 3 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Daewoo B18S is a 1,796 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size passenger vehicles (1997–2002). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a DOHC 16-valve layout to deliver responsive urban performance and stable highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 2 and later Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances drivability with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 98 kW (133 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (1997–2000); Euro 3 (2001–2002) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (80,000 km interval) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, API SL | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The DOHC design provides strong mid-range response ideal for city and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 80,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Use of API SL-spec oil is essential to maintain lifter quietness and prevent cam wear, especially in early-build engines. Extended idling or short-trip driving can accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to low fuel pressure; clogged filters may cause lean misfires. Post-2000 models feature revised oil passages; pre-2000 units should follow Daewoo TSB-ENG-1805 for cam wear prevention.
Oil Specs: Requires API SL specification (Daewoo SIB 08 05 02). ACEA A3/B3 oils acceptable as alternative.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to 1997–2000 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 3 compliance confirmed for 2001–2002 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across EU fuel grades (RON 95).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D18001, D18110, TSB-ENG-1805
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Daewoo B18S was used across Daewoo's U-body and Leganza platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Nubira and revised exhaust manifolds in the Leganza-and from 2001 the updated Nubira LCI adopted a secondary air injection system for improved cold-start emissions, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Daewoo TIS D18001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for B18S). Pre-2000 models have black intake manifolds with round throttle bodies; post-2000 units use grey manifolds with electronic throttle control. Critical differentiation from B15S: B18S has larger bore and longer stroke, and the exhaust manifold has four separate runners. Service parts require chassis number verification - timing belts for pre-2000 Nubira are not interchangeable with Leganza due to accessory drive layout (Daewoo SIB 08 05 02).
The B18S's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban driving. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 2000 indicated a measurable number of pre-2000 engines exhibiting cam wear before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine failure in high-mileage units. Short-trip usage and delayed oil changes increase valvetrain stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (1997-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1999-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO B18S.
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