The Vauxhall 6VD1 (DOHC) is a 3,791 cc, 60° V6 petrol engine produced between 1992 and 1998. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and sequential multi-port fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 173 kW (235 PS) and 339 Nm of torque, with strong mid-range response due to its even-firing V6 architecture.
Fitted to models such as the Omega B (Vauxhall Carlton/Omega) and Senator B, the 6VD1 was engineered for refined performance and high-speed stability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed-loop fuel system, catalytic converter, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to meet Euro 1 standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is head gasket failure under sustained high-load conditions, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB-94-08-61. This issue stems from thermal stress at the cylinder head-to-block interface, particularly in engines without updated coolant flow paths. From mid-1995, Vauxhall introduced revised gasket materials and coolant channel modifications to improve durability.
Production years 1992–1998 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Vauxhall 6VD1 (DOHC) is a 3,791 cc 60° V6 petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and performance variants (1992–1998). It combines sequential multi-port fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts to deliver smooth power delivery and responsive throttle behavior. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances performance with drivability for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,791 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 89.0 mm | |
| Power output | 173 kW (235 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 339 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port injection (Bosch Motronic 2.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SG/SH) | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The DOHC V6 layout provides smooth power delivery and refined cruising but requires vigilant cooling system maintenance to prevent head gasket issues. Use of correct 10W-40 oil and adherence to 10,000 km service intervals are essential to preserve timing chain tensioners and camshaft lobes. The Bosch Motronic system demands clean fuel and stable battery voltage to avoid limp-mode or misfire codes. Revised head gaskets introduced from 1995 onward (per TSB-94-08-61) significantly reduce failure risk; pre-1995 engines should be upgraded during service. Catalytic converter efficiency is critical for Euro 1 compliance—avoid leaded fuel or oil burning conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SG/SH (Vauxhall Owner’s Manual 1994). ACEA A3 not formally required.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1992–1998 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 2 variants produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output verified on Omega 3000 24V (Vauxhall PT-1995).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V6-1024, V6-1025
Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletins: TSB-94-08-61, TSB-93-07-12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Vauxhall 6VD1 (DOHC) was used across Vauxhall's Omega B and Senator B platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced subframes in the Lotus Carlton variant and modified intake manifolds in the Omega MV6—and from mid-1995 the head gasket and coolant flow revisions, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left bank (driver’s side) near the cylinder head-to-block junction (Vauxhall TIS V6-1024). The 7th VIN digit is '6' for 6VD1-equipped vehicles. Pre-1995 engines have silver valve covers with a single coolant outlet on the front cover; post-1995 units use revised front covers with dual outlets and updated gasket sealing surfaces. Critical differentiation from earlier CIH V6: 6VD1 has DOHC heads, coil-on-plug ignition, and no distributor. Head gasket service kits must match production date—pre-06/1995 and post-06/1995 are not interchangeable (TSB-94-08-61).
The 6VD1's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in pre-1995 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or performance-tuned examples. Vauxhall internal data from 1995 indicated a notable share of early engines requiring gasket replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show cooling system neglect as a leading cause of premature failure. Extended high-load driving and infrequent coolant changes increase thermal stress, making gasket upgrades and coolant maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1993–1997) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 6VD1-DOHC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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