The Daewoo X20 SED is a 1,998 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2002. It belongs to Daewoo's Family II engine series and features a cast-iron block with an aluminium DOHC 16-valve cylinder head. Equipped with multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), it delivers 85 kW (116 PS) and 175 Nm of torque, providing balanced performance for mid-size sedans and wagons.
Fitted to the Daewoo Nubira (J150) and Leganza (C150), the X20 SED was engineered for smooth highway cruising and dependable family transportation. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop oxygen sensor control, meeting Euro 3 standards across all production years. Its design emphasizes durability and ease of service, with wide service intervals and simplified ancillary layouts.
One documented concern is thermostat housing cracking due to thermal stress, highlighted in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin DB-ENG-2001-03. This issue arises from material fatigue in the plastic housing under repeated thermal cycling, particularly in cold climates with high coolant concentration. In 2001, Daewoo introduced a revised metal-reinforced housing, significantly reducing failure rates in later production units.
Daewoo
All production years 2000–2002 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Daewoo X20 SED is a 1,998 cc inline-four petrol engine designed for mid-size platforms (2000–2002). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a dual overhead camshaft valvetrain to deliver linear power delivery and refined operation. Engineered to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances performance, efficiency, and long-term reliability for private and fleet use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, API SL | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The X20 SED provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to the 90,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent engine damage. SAE 10W-40 API SL oil is recommended for optimal valvetrain lubrication. The DOHC 16-valve design enhances breathing efficiency but requires periodic valve clearance checks. Fuel injectors should be serviced every 60,000 km to maintain emissions compliance. The 2001 thermostat housing upgrade (Daewoo SIB DB-ENG-2001-03) significantly improved cooling system durability; pre-2001 engines benefit from retrofitting the reinforced unit.
Oil Specs: Requires API SL (or equivalent) 10W-40 (Daewoo Owner's Manual Rev4). ACEA A3/B3 compliant oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2002 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). No market-specific variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Daewoo TIS Doc. X20SED-PWR).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs X20SED-A01, X20SED-F01, DB-ENG-2001-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Daewoo X20 SED was used across Daewoo's Nubira and Leganza platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with General Motors derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-enhanced cooling in the Leganza and revised ECU mapping in the Nubira-and from 2001 the updated thermostat housing improved reliability, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS X20SED-ID1). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('X' for X20 SED). Pre-2001 models have a silver cam cover with "16V" badge; post-2001 units feature revised casting numbers on the cylinder head. Critical differentiation from G16MF: X20 SED has a larger bore (84.0 mm vs 79.0 mm) and longer stroke (90.0 mm vs 81.5 mm). Service parts require model year verification—thermostat housings for pre-2001 engines are not compatible with later models due to material and gasket redesign (Daewoo SIB DB-ENG-2001-03).
The X20 SED's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure on neglected units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage fleet vehicles. Daewoo internal quality reports from 2002 indicated over 14% of pre-2001 engines suffered belt-related damage beyond 90,000 km, while VCA MOT data links a significant number of engine seizures to missed belt changes. Extended service intervals and infrequent highway driving increase risk, making adherence to replacement schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (2000–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2001–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO X20SED.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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