The Vauxhall 4EE1 is a 1,686 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8 valves, and indirect injection via a Bosch mechanical fuel pump. In standard form it delivered 35 kW (48 PS) at 4,600 rpm and 96 Nm of torque at 2,800 rpm, prioritising durability and fuel economy over performance.
Fitted to models such as the Astra F and Corsa B, the 4EE1 was engineered for entry‑level commercial and private use with an emphasis on simplicity, low maintenance costs, and cold‑weather starting reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through mechanical injection timing control and an oxidation catalyst, allowing Euro 1 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is injector nozzle coking due to low‑sulphur fuel incompatibility in later service life, noted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑93‑012. This issue, exacerbated by extended idling and short trips, can cause hard starting and uneven combustion. From 1996, revised injector specifications improved fuel atomisation.
Vauxhall
All production years 1993–1998 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Vauxhall 4EE1 is a 1,686 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated diesel engine engineered for compact and light commercial vehicles (1993–1998). It uses indirect injection with a mechanical Bosch VE distributor pump to deliver predictable torque and exceptional longevity. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and serviceability over refinement or power.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,686 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 35 kW (48 PS) @ 4,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 96 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE mechanical indirect injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API CF or ACEA B2 10W‑40 mineral oil | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The indirect injection design provides exceptional cold-start reliability and mechanical robustness but requires strict 10,000 km or 12-month timing belt replacement to prevent catastrophic valve-piston contact. Use of API CF or ACEA B2 10W-40 mineral oil is essential—synthetic oils may reduce injector lubrication in this mechanical system. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate injector coking; periodic sustained driving helps maintain combustion chamber cleanliness. The oxidation catalyst has no regeneration cycle, so fuel quality directly impacts emissions longevity. Revised injectors from 1996 (part #90487212) offer improved atomisation per TSB‑93‑012.
Oil Specs: Requires API CF or ACEA B2 10W-40 mineral oil (Vauxhall TSB‑93‑012). Synthetic oils not recommended due to injector lubrication requirements.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1993–1998 4EE1 engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). No market variants deviate from this standard.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all applications (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V‑4EE1‑01).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V‑4EE1‑01, V17‑1201
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall 4EE1 was used across Vauxhall's GM T-platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Astra F van and compact accessory drive in the Corsa B—and from 1996 the Corsa B facelift adopted updated injector specifications, creating minor parts interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Vauxhall TIS V‑4EE1‑01). The 7th VIN digit is '7' for 1.7L diesel engines in Astra F and Corsa B. Visual identification: grey cast-iron cam cover with '1700 D' cast into the surface; mechanical Bosch VE pump mounted on the right side. Critical differentiation from later 17DT: 4EE1 lacks turbocharger and intercooler plumbing. Injector part numbers changed in 1996—pre-1996 units use #90487105, post-1996 use #90487212 per TSB‑93‑012.
The 4EE1's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to missed service intervals, with catastrophic consequences in this interference design. Vauxhall internal service data from 1997 indicated a sharp rise in engine replacements after 120,000 km when belt changes were delayed. Secondary concerns include injector coking from modern low-sulphur diesel and water ingress into the Bosch VE pump during high-pressure washing. Cold climates exacerbate hard-start issues if glow plug circuits degrade.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1993–1998) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 17-D-4EE1.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VAUXHALL 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.
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