The Vauxhall D 16 XER is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivered 88 kW (120 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 155 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering balanced performance for compact hatchbacks and crossovers.
Fitted to models such as the Corsa D, Meriva B, and Mokka, the D 16 XER was engineered for responsive daily driving with low emissions and fuel consumption. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, ensuring all units met Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on the intake valves and EGR passages, which can lead to rough idling and hesitation under load. This issue, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin TIS-10-05-12, stems from crankcase ventilation routing and EGR soot accumulation over time. From 2015, revised PCV hoses and updated ECU calibrations were introduced to mitigate the problem.
All production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Vauxhall D 16 XER is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact and compact vehicles (2010–2018). It combines DOHC architecture with variable intake cam timing to deliver smooth power delivery and refined idle quality. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances urban drivability with fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.5 mm | |
| Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch ME7.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos2 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 106 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city and highway driving but requires periodic cleaning of the EGR valve and intake manifold to prevent rough idle and hesitation. GM Dexos2 (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain valve train longevity and catalytic converter efficiency. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate carbon buildup in the PCV and EGR circuits. The chain-driven valvetrain is generally robust, but oil degradation can increase wear on tensioners. Post-2015 models benefit from updated ECU maps and revised breather hoses per Vauxhall SIB TIS-10-05-12.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos2 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall SIB TIS-10-05-12). Not interchangeable with older GM-LL-A-025.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across all applications (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V10‑4422).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V10‑4422, SIB TIS-10-05-12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall D 16 XER was used across Vauxhall's Corsa D, Meriva B, and Mokka platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Meriva for NVH control and compact accessory layout in the Mokka—and from 2015 the Corsa D facelift introduced updated ECU calibration and PCV routing, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Vauxhall TIS V10‑4422). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('E' for 1.6L). All D 16 XER units feature black plastic cam covers with '1.6' embossed and a single intake cam phaser. Critical differentiation from A16XER: D 16 XER uses Bosch ME7.8 ECU with 16-pin under-hood diagnostic connector; A16XER uses Continental EMS3125 with 24-pin. Service parts for EGR and PCV hoses differ pre/post 2015 due to routing changes (Vauxhall SIB TIS-10-05-12).
The D 16 XER's primary reliability risk is EGR and intake carbon fouling, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Vauxhall internal data from 2014 noted a measurable increase in idle instability complaints on vehicles under 60,000 km in city fleets, while UK DVSA MOT records show EGR-related emissions failures as a recurring cause in Corsa D and Mokka models. Short-trip driving and infrequent oil changes accelerate deposit formation, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL D-16-XER.
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)
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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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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