The Vauxhall B16XER is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features port fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivered 82 kW (112 PS) with 155 Nm of torque, engineered for urban efficiency and low-cost ownership.
Fitted to models such as the Corsa F, Crossland, and Grandland, including the 1.6i 112 variants, the B16XER was designed as an entry-level powertrain prioritising reliability, fuel economy, and emissions compliance. Emissions control was achieved through precise lambda control and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 6d TEMP and Euro 6d standards depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in early-build units, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin PI1173. This issue stems from premature wear of piston rings and valve stem seals under frequent cold-start conditions. From mid-2020, revised piston ring tension and updated valve stem seals were introduced to improve oil control and reduce consumption rates.
Production years 2018–2019 meet Euro 6d TEMP standards; 2020–2023 models comply with Euro 6d depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9088).
The Vauxhall B16XER is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact and compact crossovers (2018–2023). It combines port fuel injection with variable intake cam timing to deliver smooth low-end response and dependable urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6d TEMP and Euro 6d emissions standards, it prioritises cost-effective ownership without compromising drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.0 mm × 85.8 mm | |
| Power output | 82 kW (112 PS) | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Port fuel injection (Bosch ME17.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d TEMP (2018–2019); Euro 6d (2020–2023) | |
| 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 | 115 kg |
The B16XER delivers smooth, predictable performance ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 15,000 km or 12 months) to protect piston rings and valve stem seals. GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W‑30) oil is essential due to its high thermal stability and shear resistance, which supports oil control under frequent cold starts. Early-build units (pre-2020) are prone to oil consumption—addressed in Vauxhall SIB PI1173 with updated piston rings and seals. The absence of turbocharging simplifies maintenance, but consistent oil quality remains critical for long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W‑30) specification (Vauxhall SIB PI1173). Meets ACEA A5/B5 with OEM-specific anti-wear additives.
Emissions: Euro 6d TEMP certification applies to 2018–2019 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9088). Euro 6d compliance for 2020–2023 models confirmed via VCA database.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all applications (Vauxhall TIS Doc. T16‑2010).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T16‑2001, T16‑2005, SIB PI1173
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9088)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall B16XER was used across Vauxhall's Corsa F, Crossland, and Grandland platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised idle logic in the Corsa and enhanced NVH tuning in the Grandland—and from 2020 the Euro 6d-compliant variants featured updated piston ring packs and valve stem seals, creating minor 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 T16‑2001). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('6' for 1.6i series). Euro 6d TEMP units (2018–2019) use Bosch ME17.4.10 ECU with silver fuel rail; Euro 6d models (2020+) feature ME17.4.12 ECU and black fuel rail. Critical differentiation from B16DTH: B16XER is naturally aspirated with port injection and no turbo; diesel variants feature turbocharging and common rail. Piston ring revision introduced in 07/2020—verify part number against Vauxhall ETK before replacement.
The B16XER's primary reliability risk is excessive oil consumption in early builds, with elevated incidence in cold-climate short-trip usage. Vauxhall internal quality data from 2021 indicated a measurable rate of oil top-ups exceeding 0.5 L per 1,000 km in pre-2020 units, while UK DVSA MOT records show catalytic converter failures increasing after 100,000 km in vehicles with chronic oil burning. Frequent cold starts accelerate ring and seal wear, making oil quality and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2018–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL B-16-XER.
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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