The Vauxhall C30SE is a 2,969 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1987 and 1993. It features multi-point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and two valves per cylinder. In standard form it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 235 Nm of torque, providing smooth linear power delivery for executive applications.
Fitted to models such as the Omega A and Senator B—including the 3.0i variants—the C30SE was engineered for refined cruising and relaxed motorway performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and basic lambda control, meeting Euro 1 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 88‑012. This issue is often linked to inadequate lubrication during extended oil change intervals and thermal stress in high-mileage units. From 1990 onward, revised tensioner materials and guide rails were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 1987–1993 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1025).
The Vauxhall C30SE is a 2,969 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and coupes (1987–1993). It combines multi-point fuel injection with SOHC architecture to deliver smooth, linear power delivery and mechanical refinement. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes drivability and serviceability over peak 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 × 87.5 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) | |
| Torque | 235 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI (multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The SOHC inline-six layout provides smooth, refined performance ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. The distributor-based ignition system is robust but vulnerable to moisture—ensure cap and rotor are inspected regularly. Use only RON 95 petrol to avoid knocking. Post-1990 engines feature improved tensioner materials per Vauxhall SIB 88-012; pre-1990 units benefit from proactive inspection. No complex emissions hardware simplifies maintenance but mandates catalytic converter integrity for compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires Vauxhall-approved 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Vauxhall Owner's Manual 1988). ACEA A2/B2 compliance recommended.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years 1987–1993 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1025).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output verified on Omega A 3.0i (VIN 8th digit 'S') per Vauxhall TIS V09‑005.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V08‑0360, V08‑0365, SIB 88‑012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1025)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall C30SE was used across Vauxhall's Omega A and Senator B platforms with longitudinal mounting and derived from the GM CIH (Cam In Head) engine family. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Senator and modified exhaust manifolds in the Omega—and from 1990 the updated timing chain tensioner design improved reliability, 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 V08‑0380). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('S' for C30SE). Pre-1990 models use a standard nylon timing chain tensioner; post-1990 units have reinforced phenolic tensioner with metal backing plate. Critical differentiation from C30NE: C30SE uses SOHC 12-valve head, while C30NE is a different CIH variant with carburettor or early injection. Service parts for timing system require production date verification—tensioner kits for engines before 04/1990 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Vauxhall SIB 88‑012).
The C30SE's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear and distributor moisture ingress in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Vauxhall internal data from 1992 indicated a notable share of pre-1990 engines requiring timing system replacement before 140,000 km, while UK MOT records show catalytic converter failures in vehicles with chronic misfires. Infrequent servicing and incorrect oil accelerate wear, making interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1988–1993) and UK MOT failure statistics (1998–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL C-30-SE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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