The Vauxhall C30LE is a 2,969 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2002. It features multi — point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and two valves per cylinder. In standard form it delivered 125 kW (170 PS) with 260 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth highway cruising and refined performance.
Fitted exclusively to the Omega B (including the MV6 and Lotus Carlton derivatives in earlier years), the C30LE was Vauxhall’…
All production years (1995–2002) meet Euro 2 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0531).
The Vauxhall C30LE is a 2,969 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and estates (1995–2002). It combines multi-point fuel injection with SOHC 12-valve architecture to deliver linear power delivery and hallmark inline-six smoothness. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritises refinement and durability over modern efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,969 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) | |
Torque | 260 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M2.8) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | GM 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
Dry weight | 185 kg |
The Vauxhall C30LE was used exclusively in the Omega B platform with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine represented the final evolution of Vauxhall’s CIH inline-six family, featuring updated engine management and emissions controls over its predecessor C30NE. All units comply with Euro 2 and share identical service parts. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The C30LE's primary reliability risk is oil sludge accumulation in neglected or high-mileage units. Vauxhall workshop data from 1999 indicated a measurable rate of bearing wear repairs after 150,000 km in vehicles with irregular oil changes. Urban stop-start driving without adequate oil maintenance accelerates sludge formation, making oil service and ventilation system integrity critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1995–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1997–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The C30LE is mechanically robust and smooth when properly maintained, but high-mileage examples are prone to oil sludge if service intervals are neglected. With regular oil changes every 10,000 km and PCV system inspection, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 km.
Top issues include oil sludge buildup (leading to bearing wear), timing chain stretch, PCV system failure, and plastic thermostat housing leaks. These are documented in Vauxhall technical service bulletins TIS‑96‑12 and TIS maintenance schedules.
The C30LE powered only the Omega B (1995–2002) in 2.9i MV6 and 3.0i variants. It was the final evolution of Vauxhall’s CIH inline-six engine family, used exclusively in executive sedans and estates.
Limited potential. As a 12-valve SOHC engine, power gains are modest—typically +10–15 kW with intake/exhaust upgrades and ECU chip tuning. Aggressive tuning is not recommended due to marginal internal strength and outdated engine management.
Moderate for its size. In an Omega 3.0i, expect ~10.5 L/100km (27 mpg UK) combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 24–29 mpg UK (9.7–11.8 L/100km), depending on driving style and condition.
Yes. The C30LE is an interference design. Timing chain failure—though rare—can cause piston-to-valve contact and catastrophic damage. The front-mounted chain is robust with proper oil maintenance.
GM 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil is recommended. Full synthetic is acceptable but not required. Change intervals should not exceed 10,000 km or 12 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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EUR-Lex
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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