The Vauxhall A 13 DTR is a 1,248 cc, inline‑three turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It features a common-rail direct injection system, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). In standard tune it delivered 70 kW (95 PS) at 4,000 rpm and 230 Nm of torque at 1,750 rpm, providing strong low-end response and fuel efficiency for compact city and subcompact applications.
Fitted to models such as the Vauxhall Corsa E and Adam, the A 13 DTR was engineered for urban efficiency, responsive low-speed torque, and compliance with Euro 5b emissions standards. Emissions control was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), enabling full Euro 5b certification across all production years.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear leading to rail pressure faults, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin SB‑13‑08. This issue is linked to fuel lubricity degradation in ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) and inadequate maintenance intervals. From 2014, Vauxhall introduced revised HPFP internals and updated calibration to improve durability.
Production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2341).
The Vauxhall A 13 DTR Diesel is a 1,248 cc inline‑three turbocharged engine engineered for compact city cars (2011–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-rpm torque and efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 5b emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,248 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel (EN 590) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 97.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5b | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell VNT15) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W‑30 (ACEA C3 / GM Dexos2) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The three-cylinder layout provides compact packaging and strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to protect the timing chain and turbo bearings. ACEA C3 / GM Dexos2 5W-30 oil is critical due to its low-SAPS formulation protecting the DPF and aftertreatment system. The Bosch CP4.2 high-pressure fuel pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) with adequate lubricity; fuel contamination or extended service intervals accelerate HPFP wear. Post-2014 engines include revised pump internals per Vauxhall SB‑13‑08—pre-2014 units benefit from updated calibration and fuel additive use. EGR/DPF systems require regular highway driving to enable passive regeneration and prevent limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 5W-30 oil meeting ACEA C3 and GM Dexos2 specifications (Vauxhall Owner’s Handbook 2012). Low-SAPS essential for DPF longevity.
Emissions: Euro 5b certification applies to all 2011–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2341). DPF and DOC required for compliance.
Power Ratings: Measured under BS AU 14 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Vauxhall PT‑2015.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V1248‑11, CO‑2013, SB‑13‑08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2341)
British Standards Institution: BS AU 14 Engine Power Testing
The Vauxhall A 13 DTR Diesel was used across Vauxhall's Corsa E and Adam platforms with transverse front-engine mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Adam and modified intake ducting in the Corsa—and from 2014 the introduction of updated high-pressure fuel pump internals for improved durability, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS V1248‑11). The full engine number begins with 'A13DTR' followed by a sequential build code. Pre-2014 units use early-spec Bosch CP4.2 pumps (part #0445 020 001); post-2014 engines feature revised internals (part #0445 020 015). Critical differentiation from petrol A14XER: A13DTR has turbocharger, EGR valve, DPF, and diesel injector rails. Cylinder head casting number 'A13DTR' confirms identity.
The A 13 DTR's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality diesel or extended service intervals. Vauxhall internal quality reports from 2015 noted HPFP-related no-start faults in over 12% of pre-2014 units by 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links DPF-related failures to predominantly urban usage patterns. Infrequent highway driving and incorrect oil specifications accelerate aftertreatment and timing chain wear, making correct maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2011–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL A-13-DTR.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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