The Vauxhall C14SE is a 1,389 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features multi-point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and two valves per cylinder. In standard form it delivered 60 kW (82 PS) with 121 Nm of torque, engineered for economical urban driving and low-cost ownership.
Fitted to models such as the Corsa B and Tigra A, including the 1.4i variants, the C14SE was designed as an entry-level powertrain prioritising simplicity, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance for its era. Emissions control was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda feedback, meeting Euro 2 standards across all markets.
One documented concern is head gasket failure in high-mileage or overheated units, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TIS‑97‑08. This issue stems from thermal stress on the cast-iron block and aluminium head interface, exacerbated by coolant neglect or thermostat failure. No major revisions were issued before the engine was superseded by the X14XE.
All production years (1995–2000) meet Euro 2 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0412).
The Vauxhall C14SE is a 1,389 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact hatchbacks and coupés (1995–2000). It combines multi-point fuel injection with SOHC architecture to deliver predictable urban performance and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritises reliability and cost-effective operation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,389 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.6 mm × 73.4 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) | |
| Torque | 121 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M1.5.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The C14SE delivers predictable, low-stress performance ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to coolant maintenance and timing belt replacement (every 60,000 km or 4 years) to prevent catastrophic failure. Use of correct 10W‑40 oil and regular thermostat inspection are critical to avoid overheating, which is the primary trigger for head gasket failure. The absence of complex emissions hardware simplifies repairs, but neglect of basic cooling system service can lead to premature engine damage.
Oil Specs: Requires GM 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Vauxhall Owner’s Manual 1996). No ACEA specification required for this era.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies universally to all 1995–2000 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0412).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all applications (Vauxhall TIS Doc. T14‑0110).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T14‑0101, T14‑0105, TSB TIS‑97‑08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/0412)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall C14SE was used across Vauxhall's Corsa B and Tigra A platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received consistent calibration across applications, with no significant platform-specific revisions during its production run. All units comply with Euro 2 and share identical service parts. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Vauxhall TIS T14‑0101). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for C14 series). All C14SE units feature a black plastic rocker cover with “1.4i” embossed and a single-row timing belt cover. Critical differentiation from C16SE: C14SE has 1,389 cc displacement and 82 PS output; C16SE is 1,598 cc with 101 PS. Timing belt kits are not interchangeable.
The C14SE's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in high-mileage or overheated units. Vauxhall workshop data from 1998 indicated a measurable rate of head gasket repairs after 120,000 km, particularly in vehicles with neglected coolant changes or faulty thermostats. Urban stop-start driving without adequate cooling system maintenance accelerates thermal fatigue, making coolant service and belt replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1995–2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1997–2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL C-14-SE.
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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
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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