The Vauxhall C18NE is a 1,796 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2002. Developed under GM’s Family 1 engine series, it features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8 valves, and sequential multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivers 74–77 kW (101–105 PS) with peak torque of 155–162 Nm, offering dependable urban drivability with modest performance.
Fitted to models such as the Astra F, Vectra B, and Zafira A, including the 1.8i variants, the C18NE was engineered for cost-effective ownership, serviceability, and compliance with Euro 2 emissions standards. Emissions control is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, allowing baseline Euro 2 certification without exhaust gas recirculation or advanced aftertreatment.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust manifold studs, which can lead to exhaust leaks and failed emissions tests. This issue is referenced in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB-98-07-03, noting that thermal cycling and corrosion accelerate thread degradation. From 1999, revised manifold hardware with improved metallurgy was introduced to enhance durability.
All production years (1995–2002) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105).
The Vauxhall C18NE is a 1,796 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size applications (1995–2002). It combines sequential multi-point fuel injection with a SOHC 8-valve layout to deliver reliable, low-maintenance performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes serviceability and parts commonality over high output or refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 88.2 mm | |
| Power output | 74–77 kW (101–105 PS) | |
| Torque | 155–162 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic M1.5.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM LL-A-025 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design offers mechanical simplicity and ease of repair but requires strict adherence to 30,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference damage. The Bosch Motronic system is tolerant of basic maintenance but sensitive to poor-quality ignition components. Exhaust manifold stud corrosion is common in humid climates; post-1999 engines feature upgraded hardware per TSB-98-07-03. Use of RON 95 petrol and GM LL-A-025 oil is essential for longevity and emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires GM LL-A-025 10W-40 specification (Vauxhall TSB-98-07-03). Not interchangeable with later DEXOS formulations.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all model years (1995–2002) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified with RON 95 petrol (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V09500).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V09120, V09200, TSB-98-07-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2105)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall C18NE was used across Vauxhall's Astra F, Vectra B, and Zafira A platforms with transverse mounting and shared extensively with Opel and Holden under GM global architecture. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised engine mounts in the Zafira and acoustic covers in the Vectra—and from 1999 the exhaust manifold hardware update created minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS V09150). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for C18NE series). All C18NE units feature a black plastic cam cover with "1.8i" badge and lack variable valve timing hardware. Critical differentiation from C18XE: C18NE uses SOHC 8-valve layout with Bosch Motronic M1.5.4, whereas C18XE is DOHC 16-valve with different ECU. Service parts for exhaust manifold require production date verification—pre-01/1999 units need TSB-98-07-03 hardware upgrade.
The C18NE's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold stud corrosion and breakage, with elevated incidence in coastal or high-humidity regions. Vauxhall workshop data (2001) indicated a significant share of pre-1999 engines required manifold replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show exhaust-related failures as a leading cause of rejection in this era. Infrequent oil changes and incorrect spark plugs increase catalytic converter stress, making adherence to GM-specified maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1998–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL C-18-NE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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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