The Vauxhall CIH 3.0L E SE is a 2,994 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1986. It features a 12‑valve SOHC layout with a single camshaft located in the cylinder block (Cam‑In‑Head design), and sequential multi‑point fuel injection introduced in later variants. In standard form it delivers 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) and 230–245 Nm of torque, offering smooth linear power delivery characteristic of classic inline‑six configurations.
Fitted to the Vauxhall Royale, Senator A, and early Carlton models, the CIH 3.0L E SE was engineered for executive cruising with relaxed motorway dynamics and refined idle quality. Emissions compliance in later years was achieved through electronic fuel injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing compliance with early Euro-equivalent standards under UK VCA Type Approval.
One documented concern is cylinder head gasket failure under sustained high-load conditions, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin SB‑78‑112. This issue stems from thermal stress at the fire ring due to the engine’s long stroke and cast-iron block/aluminium head combination. From 1982, revised gasket materials and updated torque sequences were introduced to improve sealing reliability.
Production years 1975–1981 meet pre-Euro emissions standards; 1982–1986 models with fuel injection comply with early UK emissions regulations under VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0891.
The Vauxhall CIH 3.0L E SE is a 2,994 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1975–1986). It combines the Cam‑In‑Head (CIH) valvetrain architecture with electronic fuel injection (in later variants) to deliver smooth torque and refined high-speed operation. Designed to meet early UK emissions requirements, it balances classic engineering with period-specific compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,994 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 105.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103–110 kW (140–150 PS) | |
| Torque | 230–245 Nm @ 3,200–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch L-Jetronic multi-point injection (post-1982) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1975–1981); UK emissions compliant (1982–1986) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1–9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The inline-six CIH layout provides inherent balance and smoothness ideal for highway cruising but requires regular valve clearance adjustments (every 20,000 km) due to its mechanical tappet design. Post-1982 fuel-injected variants demand correct Bosch L-Jetronic calibration and clean fuel to prevent idle instability. The cast-iron block with aluminium head is prone to head gasket failure if overheated or if coolant maintenance is neglected. Use of correct 10W‑40 oil and adherence to torque specifications during head reassembly per SB‑78‑112 is critical for longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Vauxhall SB‑78‑112). Modern ACEA A3/B4 oils may be used but avoid low-SAPS formulations.
Emissions: Pre-1982 models lack catalytic converters and meet only pre-Euro UK standards. 1982–1986 injected variants comply with early UK emissions rules (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/0891).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 150 PS output applies to post-1982 fuel-injected Senator A models (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V10300).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V10150, V10151, V10152, SB‑78‑112
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/0891)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Vauxhall CIH 3.0L E SE was used across Vauxhall's Royale, Senator A, and Carlton platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Opel under GM's European executive architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Senator and revised cooling in the Carlton—and from 1982 the transition to Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection, creating clear pre/post fuel system divides. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the bellhousing flange (Vauxhall TIS V10170). The prefix 'CIH' and displacement '30' identify the family. Pre-1982 units use a carburettor or mechanical injection; post-1982 models feature Bosch L-Jetronic with an air flow meter and ECU under the dash. Critical differentiation: CIH 3.0L E SE has a single camshaft low in the block—do not confuse with later DOHC engines. Head gasket part numbers differ pre/post SB‑78‑112—verify via casting date on block.
The CIH 3.0L E SE's primary reliability risk is cylinder head gasket failure in pre-1982 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or towing applications. Vauxhall internal service data from 1983 noted a measurable uptick in warranty claims for coolant contamination and overheating in Royale and early Senator models, while UK DVLA records show no significant emissions-related issues due to the era’s regulatory framework. Overheating and incorrect head bolt torque remain critical failure triggers, making cooling system maintenance essential.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall service bulletins (1978–1986) and UK DVLA historical records (1980–1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL CIH-30L-S-SE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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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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VCA Certification Portal
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