The Vauxhall C16XE is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2002. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivers 74 kW (101 PS) and 148 Nm of torque, providing smooth urban drivability and modest highway performance.
Fitted to models such as the Astra F, Corsa B, and Tigra, including the 1.6i 16V variants, the C16XE was engineered for everyday reliability, low emissions, and cost-effective maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control, three-way catalytic converter, and precise fuel metering, meeting Euro 2 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is head gasket failure due to thermal stress in high-mileage or overheated engines, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin 98‑045. This issue stems from marginal coolant flow design and material limitations in early castings. From 1999, revised gasket materials and updated cylinder head castings were introduced to improve durability.
All production years (1995–2002) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105).
The Vauxhall C16XE is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact models (1995–2002). It combines sequential multi-point injection with DOHC 16-valve architecture to deliver smooth power delivery and serviceability. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances drivability with mechanical simplicity and repair accessibility.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.8 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (101 PS) | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic M2.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall GM 10W‑40 (API SH/SG) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve layout provides smooth operation but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference damage. Coolant condition and level must be monitored regularly—overheating significantly increases head gasket failure risk. Use only EN 228-compliant petrol to maintain catalytic converter efficiency. Post-1999 engines include improved head gasket materials per Vauxhall TSB 98-045; pre-1999 units benefit from upgraded gasket kits during service. The Bosch Motronic system is robust but sensitive to poor grounding and aging sensors.
Oil Specs: Requires GM 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil meeting API SH/SG (Vauxhall TSB 98-045). ACEA A2/B2 acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2002 builds (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105). No Euro 3 variants exist for this engine.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on Astra F and Corsa B platforms (Vauxhall TIS Doc. T16-0150).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs T16-0105, T16-0120, TSB 98-045
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2105)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall C16XE was used across Vauxhall's Astra F, Corsa B, and Tigra platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM Europe architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Tigra and modified exhaust manifolds in the Astra F—and from 1999 the head gasket material update improved reliability, creating minor service part 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 T16-0080). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('6' for 1.6 16V). All C16XE units feature black plastic valve covers with “C16XE” embossed. Critical differentiation from X16XEL: C16XE uses DOHC 16-valve; X16XEL is SOHC 8-valve. Service parts require production date verification—head gaskets before 01/1999 use older material specification per Vauxhall TSB 98-045.
The C16XE's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in high-mileage or overheated engines, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to repeated thermal stress. Vauxhall internal data from 2001 indicated a measurable rate of head gasket repairs before 150,000 km in pre-1999 builds, while UK MOT records show minimal emissions-related failures, confirming robust catalyst durability. Extended oil intervals and poor coolant maintenance increase thermal stress, making cooling system integrity critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1998–2002) and UK DVSA MOT failure statistics (2000–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL C-16-XE.
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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