The Daewoo C18LE is a 1,796 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It features multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16-valve configuration. Designed for compact and mid-size applications, it delivers 88 kW (120 PS) and 165 Nm of torque, providing balanced performance and fuel efficiency for urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Daewoo Nubira II and Chevrolet Optra, the C18LE was engineered for family-oriented motoring with a focus on reliability and smooth power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 3 and later Euro 4 emissions standard certification across European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic valve lifters, which may lead to persistent tappet noise and reduced valve train efficiency. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin DSB-18-04-09, is typically associated with extended oil change intervals or use of non-specification oils. From 2006, revised lifter materials and updated oil pump flow characteristics were implemented to improve long-term durability.
Production years 2003–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2008 models comply with Euro 4 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Daewoo C18LE is a 1,796 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size family cars (2003–2008). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver responsive mid-range torque and consistent drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 and later Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances practical performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre-2006); Euro 4 (2006–2008) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 90,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SL/CF) | |
| Dry weight | 124 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for daily driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting API SL/CF specifications is essential for hydraulic lifter and bearing longevity. Use of 95 RON unleaded petrol ensures optimal combustion and prevents knock-induced wear. Pre-2006 models are prone to lifter noise; replacement with updated parts per Daewoo SIB DSB-18-04-09 is recommended during major services. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality, necessitating periodic injector cleaning to maintain idle stability and emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 API SL/CF specification (Daewoo SIB DSB-18-02-15). ACEA A2 compliant oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 3 applies to models produced before 2006 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 4 compliance confirmed for 2006–2008 builds.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (Daewoo TIS Doc. C18015).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C18001, C18002, C18003, DSB-18-04-09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for fuel consumption
The Daewoo C18LE was used across Daewoo's T250 platform with transverse mounting and shared with General Motors for global B/C-segment applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer intake runners in the Nubira and revised ECU calibrations in Optra variants-and from 2006, the facelifted Nubira II models adopted revised lifter hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS C18020). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for C18LE). Pre-2006 models have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2006 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from C15LE: C18LE has a 1.8L displacement with square bore/stroke (83.0 mm × 83.0 mm), while C15LE is a 1.5L SOHC unit. Service parts require production date verification—lifter kits for engines before 04/2006 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Daewoo SIB DSB-18-04-09).
The C18LE's primary reliability risk is hydraulic lifter wear on pre-2006 builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 2007 noted a significant number of pre-2006 engines requiring lifter replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records indicate valve train-related failures as a leading cause of MOT rejection for high-mileage Nubira models. Extended service intervals and use of non-OEM oils increase failure risk, making adherence to replacement schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (2003–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2008–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO C18LE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with DAEWOO or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
DAEWOO Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialDAEWOO documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
