The Vauxhall A30XF is a 2,969 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2004. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 12 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 132 kW (180 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 265 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing smooth power delivery suited to executive saloon and estate applications.
Fitted exclusively to the Omega B (Vauxhall Omega 3.0i), the A30XF was engineered for refined cruising and relaxed motorway performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control, closed-loop lambda feedback, and a three‑way catalytic converter, enabling Euro 3 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is oil sludge accumulation in the upper timing cover and rocker assembly, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 99‑045. This issue stems from inadequate crankcase ventilation and extended oil-change intervals under low-temperature operating conditions. From 2001, revised breather hoses and updated oil specifications were introduced to mitigate sludge formation.
All production years 1998–2004 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3412). No Euro 4 variants exist.
The Vauxhall A30XF is a 2,969 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive saloon and estate models (1998–2004). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver smooth, linear power and refined cruising characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes drivability and mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,969 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch Motronic M5.2) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | GM 5W‑30 or 10W‑40 (ACEA A3/B3) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The A30XF offers smooth, vibration-free operation typical of inline-six layouts but requires diligent oil maintenance to prevent sludge buildup in the rocker cover and timing area. Extended oil-change intervals or frequent short trips accelerate sludge formation, potentially blocking oil passages and causing camshaft wear. Use of ACEA A3/B3 5W-30 or 10W-40 oil is essential. The Bosch Motronic system is generally robust but sensitive to poor-quality fuel; 95 RON minimum is required. Revised breather hoses introduced in 2001 improve crankcase ventilation—pre-2001 engines should be retrofitted per Vauxhall SIB 99‑045.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 specification oil (Vauxhall Owner’s Manual 1999). Non-compliant oils increase sludge risk.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all A30XF production (1998–2004) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3412). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85 standards. Power output verified via VCA chassis dyno certification (VCA/EMS/3412).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A30XF‑01, ES‑A30XF
Vauxhall Service Information Bulletin 99‑045
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3412)
UN Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Vauxhall A30XF was used exclusively in the Vauxhall Omega B platform with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts and modified accessory brackets—and from 2001 the facelifted Omega B LCI adopted updated breather hoses and oil specifications, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Vauxhall TIS A30XF‑01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('3' for 3.0L). All A30XF units feature a black plastic cam cover with '3.0' embossed and a single SOHC layout with 12 valves. Critical differentiation from C30NE: A30XF uses Bosch Motronic M5.2 ECU and sequential injection; C30NE is batch-fired with earlier Motronic. Pre-2001 engines lack the updated breather hose routing—retrofit recommended per Vauxhall SIB 99‑045.
The A30XF's primary reliability risk is oil sludge formation in the upper engine, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or extended oil-change intervals. Vauxhall internal data (2002) noted rocker cover sludge in ~12% of pre-2001 engines beyond 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased oil consumption failures linked to blocked breather systems. Cold-climate operation and low-quality oil accelerate sludge buildup, making oil specification and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1999–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL A-30-XF.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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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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