The Daewoo X20XER is a 1,998 cc inline-four gasoline engine produced between 2008 and 2011. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering responsive performance in mid-size applications. In standard tune, it produces 103 kW (140 PS) and 186 Nm of torque, designed for balanced driving dynamics in everyday conditions.
Fitted primarily to the Daewoo Lacetti Premiere and Chevrolet Cruze platforms, the X20XER was engineered for improved refinement and emissions compliance over earlier G-series engines. Emissions control is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, secondary air injection system, and oxygen sensor feedback, allowing the engine to meet Euro 4 standards across its production run as confirmed by UK VCA type approval records.
One documented service concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin TSB-ENG-018, is associated with inadequate lubrication and sludge buildup affecting the hydraulic tensioner. A revised maintenance schedule and updated oil specification were introduced in 2009 to improve chain system longevity.
Daewoo
All X20XER production (2008–2011) meets Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Daewoo X20XER is a 1,998 cc inline-four gasoline engine designed for mid-size sedans and hatchbacks (2008–2011). It uses a DOHC 16-valve configuration with intake-side variable valve timing (VVT) and multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. Engineered to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances performance with serviceability and modern engine management.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline (Petrol) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, VVT | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (non-serviceable, life-of-engine) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30 (API SM/CF, GM-LL-A-025) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The naturally aspirated DOHC design with VVT provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for daily driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. SAE 5W-30 oil meeting API SM/CF and GM-LL-A-025 standards is essential for maintaining hydraulic tensioner function and preventing sludge buildup. Short-trip driving cycles increase risk of oil contamination, accelerating wear. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to poor fuel quality, which may lead to injector coking over time. Post-2009 models benefit from revised ECU logic that extends oil life under moderate conditions, though severe use still demands adherence to scheduled maintenance per Daewoo SIB TSB-ENG-018.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 API SM/CF and GM-LL-A-025 specification (Daewoo Owner's Manual Rev. 4). Compatible with ILSAC GF-4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2008–2011) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228 standards (Daewoo TIS Doc. X20-006).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs X20-001, X20-002, TSB-ENG-018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Test method for the measurement of fuel consumption
The Daewoo X20XER was used across Daewoo's Lacetti Premiere and Chevrolet's Cruze platforms with transverse mounting and shared under GM's global engine program. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifolds in hatchback variants and ECU tuning for automatic transmission models-and from 2010 the facelifted Cruze adopted a revised exhaust manifold for improved warm-up emissions, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS X20-007). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('X' for X20XER). All models feature a black valve cover with silver GM logo. Critical differentiation from G20MF: X20XER includes intake VVT and uses a timing chain instead of a belt. Service parts require model-year verification—ECUs for 2008-2009 models are not compatible with 2010-2011 revisions due to emissions calibration updates (Daewoo SIB TSB-ENG-018).
The X20XER's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 2010 indicated a significant number of pre-2009 engines required chain inspection before 100,000 km, while VCA field data links oil degradation to accelerated tensioner wear. Extended service intervals and infrequent oil changes increase failure risk, making scheduled maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (2008-2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO X20XER.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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