The Vauxhall A28NER is a 2,792 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2012. It features a DOHC 24‑valve layout with variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard form it delivered 152 kW (207 PS) and 266 Nm of torque, offering smooth power delivery and refined high‑rpm performance.
Fitted primarily to the Vectra C, Signum, and Zafira B, the A28NER was engineered for executive — level refinement and relaxed motorwa…
Production years 2006–2012 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6215).
The Vauxhall A28NER is a 2,792 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive and large MPV applications (2006–2012). It combines dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust banks to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances performance with acceptable fuel consumption for its class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,792 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min) | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
Power output | 152 kW (207 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
Torque | 266 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (Bosch ME7.8) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain (dual front‑mounted chains) | |
Oil type | GM Dexos2 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 168 kg |
The Vauxhall A28NER was used across Vauxhall's Vectra C and Signum platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Signum and revised intake manifolds in the Zafira B—and from 2008 the facelifted Vectra C MY08 models adopted updated ECU calibrations, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The A28NER's primary reliability risk is variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non‑Dexos2 oil or extended service intervals. Vauxhall internal data from 2009 indicated a measurable uptick in VVT-related warranty claims before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions failure correlation. Oil quality and change discipline make VVT longevity critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2007–2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The A28NER offers smooth V6 performance and refinement, but early models (2006–2008) had VVT solenoid reliability concerns. Later units improved solenoid design, so well-maintained examples can be robust. Regular servicing and using GM Dexos2 5W‑30 oil greatly aid longevity.
The biggest issues are VVT solenoid sticking, coolant thermostat housing leaks, intake manifold runner faults, and rear main seal oil leaks. These are documented in Vauxhall service bulletins TIS 08‑052 and 07‑041.
This 2.8L V6 petrol was used in the Vectra C (2006–2008), Signum (2006–2008), and early Zafira B (2007–2009) as the naturally aspirated 2.8 V6. It was replaced by turbocharged Z28 variants and was not licensed to other manufacturers.
Limited potential. As a naturally aspirated V6, gains are modest—typically +10–15 kW via ECU remap and exhaust upgrades. Forced induction would require extensive modification and is not common. Most owners retain stock tune for reliability.
In a Vectra C 2.8 V6, typical consumption is ~12.5 L/100km (city) and ~7.8 L/100km (highway), or about 24 mpg UK combined. Real-world economy varies with driving style—expect 22–28 mpg UK on mixed roads for a healthy, unmodified engine.
Yes. The A28NER is an interference engine. If either timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. While the dual chains are generally durable, any unusual timing noise should be investigated immediately.
Vauxhall specifies GM Dexos2 5W‑30 synthetic oil. This is critical for VVT solenoid operation and chain lubrication. Always change oil every 10,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first, especially in stop-start or high-load use.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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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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