The Vauxhall A22DMH is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2017 and 2023. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16‑valve layout with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard form it delivered 125 kW (170 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 225 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering smooth power delivery suited to mid‑size vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Insignia B and Grandland X—incl…
All production years 2017–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9235).
The Vauxhall A22DMH is a 2,198 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans, estates, and SUVs (2017–2023). It combines direct fuel injection with dual‑VVT to deliver linear power delivery and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 6d‑TEMP emissions standards, it balances performance with modern regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 225 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV6) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven DOHC | |
Oil type | Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 128 kg |
The Vauxhall A22DMH was used across Vauxhall's E2XX and EMP2 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Grandland X and modified intake manifold routing in the Insignia B—and from 2020 the facelifted Insignia B models retained the same engine code but updated ECU calibrations for improved GPF management, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The A22DMH's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles used primarily for short urban trips. Vauxhall internal field data from 2021 indicated performance degradation in a notable subset of engines exceeding 80,000 km without highway driving, while UK DVSA MOT records show secondary failures linked to misfire-related emissions faults. Cold-start cycles without full warm-up increase deposit formation, making driving pattern and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2017–2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The A22DMH is generally dependable with proper maintenance, but early intake valve carbon buildup can occur in high-mileage examples used primarily for short trips. Using GM‑LL‑A‑025 oil and adhering to 15,000 km service intervals greatly reduces risk. Well-maintained units often exceed 150,000 km without major issues.
Intake valve carbon buildup is the most serious issue, followed by GPF regeneration limitations, VVT actuator wear, and cam cover oil leaks. These are documented in Vauxhall SIBs and commonly observed in UK MOT failure data. Regular highway driving and servicing mitigate most concerns.
The A22DMH powered the Insignia B (2017–2022) and Grandland X (2018–2023) in 2.2 Ultimate and GS trims. It was exclusive to Vauxhall/Opel and not licensed to other manufacturers. All variants meet Euro 6d-TEMP emissions.
Limited gains are possible via ECU remap (+5–8 kW), but the naturally aspirated design and direct injection limit significant tuning. Most owners prioritize reliability over performance due to the engine’s sensitivity to carbon buildup and maintenance.
In an Insignia 2.2, expect ~8.5 L/100km (city) and ~5.8 L/100km (highway), or about 39 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 35–42 mpg (UK), depending on condition and driving style. Economy is moderate for its displacement.
Yes. The A22DMH is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause severe internal damage. However, the chain is robust and rarely fails if maintained; no widespread timing-related failures are documented.
Vauxhall specifies SAE 5W‑30 synthetic oil meeting GM‑LL‑A‑025. Always use a quality oil and change every 15,000 km or 12 months to protect the valve train and maintain engine longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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