The Vauxhall X 14 XE is a 1,389 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2005. It features multi‑point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and two valves per cylinder. In standard form it delivers 66 kW (90 PS) and 125 Nm of torque, prioritising simplicity and urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Corsa B, Astra G, and Tigra—including the 1.4 i variants—the X 14 XE was engineered for low-cost ownership and serviceability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and precise air‑fuel ratio control, enabling Euro 3 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is timing belt tensioner failure leading to premature belt wear, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin PI0215. This is often linked to bearing fatigue under thermal cycling and infrequent belt replacements. From 2002, Vauxhall introduced an updated tensioner with improved bearing durability.
All production years (1998–2005) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105).
The Vauxhall X 14 XE is a 1,389 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for supermini and compact models (1998–2005). It combines multi-point fuel injection with SOHC architecture to deliver predictable urban performance and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 3, it prioritises cost-effectiveness over peak output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,389 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, RON 95 min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.6 mm × 73.4 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MPFI (multi-point fuel injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (SOHC, 8‑valve) | |
| Oil type | ACEA A3/B3 10W‑40 or 5W‑30 | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC layout provides predictable throttle response and low mechanical complexity but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km or 4-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. Use of ACEA A3/B3 10W-40 or 5W-30 oil is recommended; extended intervals may accelerate camshaft lobe wear. Early tensioners (pre-2002) are prone to bearing seizure—evident as belt squeal or misalignment—prompting replacement per Vauxhall SIB PI0215. The engine lacks variable valve timing, so performance is linear but modest; it responds well to basic maintenance and is tolerant of varied fuel grades meeting RON 95 minimum.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 specification (Vauxhall Owner's Manual 1999).
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1998–2005 X 14 XE engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2105).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output assumes RON 95 fuel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. TIS-X14XE-04).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS-X14XE-01 to TIS-X14XE-04, SIB PI0215
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2105)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall X 14 XE was used across Vauxhall's Corsa B, Astra G, and Tigra platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Astra G for NVH control and modified airbox routing in the Tigra—and from 2002 the Corsa B adopted an updated timing belt tensioner, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Vauxhall TIS TIS-X14XE-06). The 7th VIN digit for X 14 XE applications is 'X'. All units feature black valve covers with external coil packs and no turbocharger. Critical differentiation from later 1.4 Z14XEP: X 14 XE uses SOHC 8-valve architecture with a belt-driven camshaft and lacks variable valve timing. Service parts for timing belt tensioner (pre- and post-2002) are not interchangeable due to bearing design changes per Vauxhall SIB PI0215.
The X 14 XE's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure under extended service intervals. Vauxhall internal field data (2003) indicated elevated belt replacement rates due to tensioner seizure before 70,000 km in high-mileage fleets, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Thermal cycling and infrequent maintenance make belt interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1998–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-14-XE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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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