The Vauxhall M9T 870 is a 2,298 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine sourced from Renault and produced between 2014 and 2021. It features common‑rail direct injection, a single variable‑geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivered 120 kW (163 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, with higher-output variants reaching 140 kW (190 PS) and 450 Nm.
Fitted exclusively to the Vauxhall Insignia B, the M9T 870 was engineered for executive‑class efficiency, offering strong motorway cruising and low CO₂ emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), enabling Euro 6b compliance across all markets.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam lobe wear, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Information Bulletin 06‑19‑11. This issue is linked to marginal lubricity in certain diesel batches and exacerbated by extended oil change intervals or frequent short trips. From 2017, revised camshaft and pump drive components were introduced to improve durability.
All production years (2014–2021) meet Euro 6b emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5685).
The Vauxhall M9T 870 is a 2,298 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for mid‑size and executive models (2014–2021). It combines Bosch common‑rail injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong mid‑range torque and refined highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it balances performance with emissions control and fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,298 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 101.3 mm | |
| Power output | 120–140 kW (163–190 PS) | |
| Torque | 380–450 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 15.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | DEXOS2 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 172 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong mid-range torque ideal for mixed driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals to protect the timing chain and fuel system. DEXOS2 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its low-SAPS formulation, which safeguards the DPF and aftertreatment system. Frequent short trips increase soot loading; occasional highway runs (≥60 km/h for 15+ minutes) are recommended to trigger passive DPF regeneration. The Bosch CP4.2 fuel pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) with adequate lubricity—avoid biodiesel blends above B7. Pre-2017 engines should be inspected for HPFP cam lobe wear per SIB 06 19 11.
Oil Specs: Requires DEXOS2 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall Owner Manual 2014+). Meets ACEA C3 and API SN standards.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to all 2014–2021 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5685). Confirmed via NEDC testing.
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85. Output verified on NEDC-compliant dyno per Vauxhall PT‑2022.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V9112, V9115, SIB 06 19 11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5685)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Euro 6)
The Vauxhall M9T 870 was used exclusively in the Vauxhall Insignia B platform with transverse mounting and sourced under license from Renault. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations—including revised engine mounts and airbox routing—and from 2017 the camshaft drive for the HPFP was updated to address wear concerns, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filler neck (Vauxhall TIS V9118). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('N' for M9T series). All units feature black plastic cam covers with integrated coil packs and a visible DPF in the exhaust system. Critical differentiation from other 2.3L diesels: M9T 870 is a Renault-sourced dCi unit with Bosch CP4.2 pump and unique ECU calibration. Service parts for camshaft and HPFP drive differ pre- and post-2017 per SIB 06 19 11.
The M9T 870's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump cam lobe wear, with elevated incidence in pre‑2017 Insignia B models under frequent short‑trip or high‑load conditions. Vauxhall internal data from 2020 indicated a notable uptick in HPFP and camshaft replacements before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal DPF‑related MOT failures due to robust regeneration logic. Poor diesel quality and extended oil intervals accelerate wear, making fuel specification and maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2014–2021) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL M9T-870.
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