The Daewoo D18T is a 1,796 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2006 and 2011. It features common-rail direct fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with 16 valves, delivering strong low-end torque and improved fuel efficiency. In standard tune it produces 88 kW (120 PS) and 230 Nm of torque, making it suitable for compact and mid-size sedans requiring responsive diesel performance.
Fitted to models such as the Daewoo Tosca and Chevrolet Lacetti Premiere, the D18T was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of economy, refinement, and motorway capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and closed-loop lambda control, allowing Euro 4 compliance across all production years.
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in vehicles operated with poor-quality diesel. This issue, highlighted in GM Korea Service Information Bulletin 07-024C, is linked to fuel contamination and inadequate filtration. In 2009, revised pump calibration and updated fuel filter specifications were introduced to improve durability and injector longevity.
Daewoo
Production years 2006–2011 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Daewoo D18T is a 1,796 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine engineered for mid-size sedans (2006–2011). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-RPM torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel economy and emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 88.3 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1,800–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (VGT, Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt (interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30, API CI-4/SL | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference engine damage. SAE 5W-30 API CI-4/SL oil is critical for turbo and injector protection, especially under sustained load. Extended idling or frequent short trips may accelerate EGR and DPF clogging. The Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent HPFP and injector failure. Post-2009 models benefit from updated fuel filter and pump calibration; pre-2009 units should use enhanced filtration and avoid non-compliant fuels per GM Korea SIB 07-024C. DPF regeneration cycles must complete fully to avoid limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30, API CI-4/SL specification (GM Korea SIB 07-024C). Compatible with ACEA B4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2006–2011 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all markets (GM Korea PT-2009).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D1875, D1880, SIB 07-024C
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ECE Regulation No 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Daewoo D18T was used across Daewoo's Tosca and Chevrolet's Lacetti Premiere platforms with transverse mounting and shared GM Europe architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Tosca and revised ECU tuning in the Lacetti-and from 2009 the facelifted Lacetti adopted the D18T with updated emissions calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover below the valve cover (Daewoo TIS D1890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for D18T). Pre-2009 models have silver valve covers with black plastic covers; post-2009 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from D17DT: D18T has larger displacement and uses a timing belt, while D17DT is a 1.7L with similar configuration. Service parts require production date verification—fuel filters and HPFP kits for engines before 04/2009 are incompatible with later units due to calibration changes (GM Korea SIB 07-024C).
The D18T's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in regions with poor diesel quality. Internal GM Korea reports from 2008 indicated a notable number of pre-2009 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show fuel system faults as a leading cause of MOT rejection for imported models. Extended idling and delayed maintenance increase injector and pump stress, making adherence to service intervals and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from GM Korea technical bulletins (2006-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO D18T.
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