The Vauxhall X 14 SZ is a 1,389 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features single overhead camshaft (SOHC), multi‑point fuel injection, and an 8‑valve configuration. In standard form it delivers 60 kW (82 PS) and 118 Nm of torque, providing economical and predictable performance for entry‑level hatchbacks.
Fitted to models such as the Astra F, Corsa B, and Tigra A, the X 14 SZ was engineered for cost‑effective ownership, low emissions, and urban practicality. Emissions compliance was achieved through a conventional three‑way catalytic converter, allowing adherence to Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust valve guides, noted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin PI0105. This is attributed to marginal metallurgical hardness in early‑production cylinder heads under sustained high‑load operation. From 1997, revised cylinder head castings with hardened valve guides were introduced to mitigate oil consumption and compression loss.
All production years (1995–2000) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1122).
The Vauxhall X 14 SZ is a 1,389 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and coupés (1995–2000). It combines multi-point fuel injection with SOHC 8-valve architecture to deliver frugal, dependable performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes simplicity and serviceability over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,389 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.6 mm × 73.4 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 118 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MPFI (multi‑point fuel injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted, service interval 60,000 km or 4 years) | |
| Oil type | GM‑LL‑A‑001 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km or 4‑year timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic interference damage. Use of GM‑LL‑A‑001–approved oil (10W‑40) is essential to manage exhaust valve guide wear, especially in pre‑1997 units. Extended oil change intervals beyond 10,000 km may accelerate guide wear and increase oil consumption. Vauxhall SIB PI0105 recommends inspection of compression and oil consumption during major services on pre‑1997 engines; replacement with updated cylinder head (P/N 90412875) if wear is evident.
Oil Specs: Requires GM‑LL‑A‑001 specification (Vauxhall Owner's Manual Astra F 1996). Equivalent to ACEA A2/B2.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2000 X 14 SZ engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1122).
Power Ratings: Measured under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 reference conditions. Output assumes RON 95 fuel and ambient temperature per ISO 1585.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS-X14SZ-01, TIS-X14SZ-02
Vauxhall Service Bulletin PI0105
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1122)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Vauxhall X 14 SZ was used across Vauxhall's Astra F, Corsa B, and Tigra A platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Tigra for NVH control and compact accessory brackets in the Corsa—and from 1997 minor cylinder head updates were introduced to address valve guide durability, creating service part 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 TIS-X14SZ-01). The 7th and 8th VIN digits identify engine variant ('X4' for X 14 SZ). All units use Bosch Motronic 1.5 ECU with black casing. Critical differentiation from C14NZ: X 14 SZ uses multi-point injection (C14NZ is throttle-body injection). Service parts for cylinder head require production date verification—units before 01/1997 use part number 90387621; later units use 90412875 with hardened valve guides (Vauxhall SIB PI0105).
The X 14 SZ's primary reliability risk is exhaust valve guide wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-rpm or hot-climate use. Vauxhall internal data from 1999 indicated a measurable uptick in oil consumption complaints before 80,000 km for 1995–1996 units, while UK DVSA records show catalytic converter degradation as the second-most common emissions fault in high-mileage examples. Extended oil intervals and incorrect viscosity amplify valve and timing belt stress, making adherence to GM‑LL‑A‑001 oil and belt replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1996–2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-14-SZ.
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)
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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