The Daewoo T20SED is a 1,998 cc, inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2002. It was developed as part of Daewoo's mid-size engine family for executive sedans and upper-medium vehicles. Featuring a SOHC 8-valve configuration and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), it delivers 92 kW (125 PS) and 178 Nm of torque, providing balanced performance suitable for highway cruising and family transportation.
Fitted to the Daewoo Espero and Rezzo platforms, the T20SED was engineered for durability and ease of maintenance, targeting fleet operators and private buyers seeking reliable daily transport. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 2 standards throughout its production run. Its design prioritizes fuel efficiency and mechanical simplicity over high performance.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner assembly, which may lead to belt slippage or failure under sustained load. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin ENG-06-009, is attributed to early tensioner spring fatigue and inadequate damping in high-temperature environments. From 1999, revised tensioner units with improved spring metallurgy and damping characteristics were introduced to enhance reliability.
Daewoo
All T20SED production (1997–2002) meets Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3789).
The Daewoo T20SED is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine designed for mid-size sedans and MPVs (1997–2002). It features SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver reliable performance and ease of servicing. Engineered to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.5 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 178 Nm @ 4,400 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 SG) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The naturally aspirated SOHC design provides smooth, predictable power ideal for highway driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference-related engine damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SG specifications is essential for valve train longevity and deposit control. Use of low-octane fuel (below 95 RON) may cause knock sensor intervention, reducing performance under load. The transverse mounting layout places demands on the timing belt tensioner due to packaging constraints, making the post-1999 upgraded tensioner assembly critical for long-term reliability. Pre-1999 models should have the revised tensioner installed per Daewoo SIB ENG-06-009 to mitigate spring fatigue.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SG specification (Daewoo SIB ENG-07-006). Compatible with ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: All T20SED models comply with Euro 2 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3789), applicable for 1997–2002 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across markets with 95 RON fuel (Daewoo TIS Doc. D20T-001).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D20T-001, ENG-06-009, ENG-07-006
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3789)
ECE Regulation 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Daewoo T20SED was used across Daewoo's Espero/Rezzo platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed applications. This engine received no major adaptations during its production cycle, maintaining consistent calibration and emissions control throughout. All units were equipped with MPFI and a single catalytic converter meeting Euro 2 standards, allowing for full interchangeability across model years. No facelift or emissions upgrade occurred during the 1997–2002 production window, simplifying parts compatibility. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS D20T-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('T' for T20SED). All T20SED engines have a silver valve cover with black intake manifold. Critical differentiation from T25: T20SED has a 2.0L displacement with 87.5 mm bore, while T25 is 2.5L with 92.0 mm bore and DOHC 16-valve layout. Service parts are generally interchangeable, but pre-1999 units should use updated timing tensioner per Daewoo SIB ENG-06-009.
The T20SED's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage highway applications. Internal Daewoo field reports from 1999 indicated a notable number of pre-1999 engines required premature belt replacement due to tensioner degradation, while VCA MOT records show timing-related failures are a leading cause of engine seizure in high-mileage units. Extended service intervals and poor-quality coolant increase thermal stress, making adherence to 90,000 km belt changes and use of OEM-specified coolant 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 T20SED.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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