The Vauxhall A22DM is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2010. Developed under GM’s Ecotec family, it features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout, 16 valves, and sequential multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivers 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) with peak torque of 200–210 Nm, offering smooth mid-range response suited to mid-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Vectra C, Signum, and Zafira B, including the 2.2i variants, the A22DM was engineered for refinement, linear power delivery, and compliance with Euro 4 emissions standards. Emissions control is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and electronic throttle control, enabling Euro 4 certification without particulate filtration.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobe driving the variable intake timing actuator, which can cause rough running and misfires. This issue is referenced in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB-07-12-08, noting that extended oil change intervals or incorrect oil viscosity accelerate lobe wear. From 2007, revised camshaft materials were introduced to improve durability.
All production years (2003–2010) meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3321).
The Vauxhall A22DM is a 2,198 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans and MPVs (2003–2010). It combines sequential multi-point fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver smooth power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it relies on a three-way catalytic converter and precise air-fuel control without turbocharging or direct injection.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) | |
| Torque | 200–210 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch ME7.9.7) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos2 5W‑30 or ACEA A3/B4 | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using GM Dexos2 5W-30 or ACEA A3/B4 oil to protect the exhaust camshaft lobes driving the variable intake timing system. Extended oil intervals or incorrect viscosity accelerate lobe wear, leading to rough idle and misfires. From 2007, revised camshafts with hardened lobes were introduced per TSB-07-12-08. The Bosch ME7.9.7 ECU requires genuine ignition components to maintain emissions compliance and prevent catalytic converter damage.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos2 5W-30 or ACEA A3/B4 specification (Vauxhall TSB-07-12-08). Not interchangeable with older GM LL-A-025 formulations.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all model years (2003–2010) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3321).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 110 kW output requires RON 95 petrol (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V14500).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V14210, V14290, TSB-07-12-08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3321)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall A22DM was used across Vauxhall's Vectra C, Signum, and Zafira B platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel and Saab under GM global architecture. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised engine mounts in the Signum and acoustic covers in the Zafira—and from 2007 the camshaft material update created minor interchange limits for timing system compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS V14230). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('M' for A22DM series). All A22DM units feature a black plastic cam cover with "2.2i" badge and lack turbo hardware. Critical differentiation from A22DTH: A22DM uses Bosch ME7.9.7 ECU with sequential injection, whereas A22DTH is a turbocharged diesel variant. Service parts for camshaft require production date verification—pre-01/2007 units need TSB-07-12-08 material upgrade.
The A22DM's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear driving the variable intake timing actuator, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. Vauxhall internal data (2009) indicated a notable share of pre-2007 engines required camshaft replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show catalytic converter failures rising in high-idle applications. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect viscosity increase stress on the cam lobes, making adherence to Dexos2 oil and service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2007–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL A-22-DM.
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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