The Vauxhall 26SE is a 2,594 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1995. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) layout with 12 valves and sequential multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 103 kW (140 PS) and 210 Nm of torque, providing smooth linear power and refined cruising for executive sedans.
Fitted to models such as the Carlton GSi 3000 and Omega A, the 26SE was engineered for drivers seeking effortless highway performance and acoustic refinement in Vauxhall’s flagship vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 1 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is head gasket failure due to thermal stress in high-load conditions, which Vauxhall addressed in later production with revised gasket materials. This issue, referenced in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TIS 92‑07‑04, is linked to sustained high-speed driving without adequate cooling system maintenance.
All production years 1988–1995 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105).
The Vauxhall 26SE is a 2,594 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1988–1995). It combines SOHC architecture with sequential multi-point injection to deliver smooth, linear power and relaxed highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritises drivability and mechanical simplicity over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,594 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 74.4 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic M1.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 (API SG/CD or ACEA A2/B2) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The SOHC inline‑six layout provides smooth, vibration-free power ideal for motorway cruising but is sensitive to cooling system degradation. The cast-iron block and aluminium head create thermal expansion mismatches under sustained load, increasing head gasket stress. Vauxhall recommends maintaining coolant concentration at 50% ethylene glycol and replacing the thermostat every 60,000 km to prevent overheating. Bosch Motronic M1.5 requires OEM-spec spark plugs and clean grounds to avoid running issues. Revised head gaskets introduced in 1993 improve durability—pre-1993 engines should consider this upgrade per Vauxhall TIS 92‑07‑04.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/CD or ACEA A2/B2 (Vauxhall Owner’s Manual 1991).
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 26SE production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. CAR‑P1990).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs CAR‑A1001, CAR‑T1001, TIS 92‑07‑04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2105)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall 26SE was used across Vauxhall's Carlton and Omega A platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced subframes in the Carlton GSi and revised engine mounts in the Omega A—and from 1993 the updated head gasket design created minor service distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the exhaust manifold (Vauxhall TIS CAR‑ID01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('6' for 2.6L inline‑6). Early models (1988–1992) use black valve covers with single-layer head gaskets; post-1993 units feature revised multi-layer steel (MLS) gaskets. Critical differentiation from C26NE: 26SE uses SOHC and Bosch M1.5 ECU, while C26NE is DOHC with Motronic M2.7. Head gasket and manifold components are not interchangeable between variants (Vauxhall TIS 92‑07‑04).
The 26SE's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure under sustained high-load conditions, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for motorway touring without cooling system upkeep. Vauxhall internal data from 1993 indicated a notable portion of pre-1993 Carlton GSi models required head gasket replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVLA records show increased coolant contamination in high-mileage examples. Infrequent coolant changes and thermostat failure dramatically accelerate thermal stress, making proactive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1990–1995) and UK DVLA/DVSA failure statistics (1995–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 26SE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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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)
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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