The Vauxhall A18XER is a 1,796 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2015. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard form it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 175 Nm of torque, providing responsive performance and smooth urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Astra J, Insignia A, and Zafira B, including the 1.8i 16V and 1.8 VVT variants, the A18XER was engineered for everyday reliability, low emissions, and refined cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, sequential fuel injection, and an advanced three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the port fuel injection system lacking direct cleaning from fuel spray, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 09‑042. This can lead to rough idle and reduced efficiency over time, particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. From 2012, revised ECU calibrations were introduced to optimize valve timing and combustion stability under low-load conditions.
All production years (2009–2015) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Vauxhall A18XER is a 1,796 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2009–2015). It combines port fuel injection with dual continuous variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel efficiency and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 88.2 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) | |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point port injection (Bosch ME7.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The dual VVT system ensures smooth torque delivery across the rev range but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using GM dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) to protect the timing chain and VVT actuators. Port fuel injection lacks direct valve cleaning, so carbon buildup on intake valves can occur with frequent short trips—periodic induction cleaning is recommended after 80,000 km. The front-mounted timing chain is generally robust but depends on correct oil viscosity and level. Use only EN 228-compliant petrol to prevent combustion instability and catalytic converter damage. ECU calibrations updated in 2012 improve idle stability; pre-2012 units benefit from software updates per Vauxhall SIB 09-042.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall SIB 09-042). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 for VVT-equipped petrol engines.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2009–2015 builds (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321). No Euro 6 variants exist for this engine.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified on Astra J and Insignia A platforms (Vauxhall TIS Doc. T18-2301).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T18-2105, T18-2210, SIB 09-042
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall A18XER was used across Vauxhall's Astra J and Insignia A platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM Europe architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Zafira B and modified exhaust manifolds in the Insignia Sports Tourer—and from 2012 the ECU calibration update improved idle control, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Vauxhall TIS T18-2080). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('8' for 1.8 petrol). All A18XER units feature black plastic valve covers with “A18XER” embossed. Critical differentiation from A18NET: A18XER is naturally aspirated with no turbo plumbing or intercooler; A18NET is turbocharged. Service parts require production date verification—ECU software before 01/2012 lacks updated idle control logic per Vauxhall SIB 09-042.
The A18XER's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on intake valves due to its port-injected design, with elevated incidence in urban or short-trip usage. Vauxhall internal data from 2013 indicated measurable rough-idle complaints in high-mileage pre-2012 builds, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures, confirming robust catalyst durability. Extended oil intervals and poor-quality petrol increase VVT actuator wear and chain tensioner stress, making oil specification and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2010–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL A-18-XER.
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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