The Vauxhall X 16 XE is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2005. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16‑valve architecture with multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 74 kW (101 PS) and 150 Nm of torque. Its lightweight aluminium head and cast‑iron block balance efficiency with durability.
Fitted primarily to the Astra G, Zafira A, and Corsa C—including the 1.6i 16V and 1.6 Club trims—the X 16 XE was engineered for drivers seeking responsive urban performance and highway flexibility. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and sequential fuel injection, meeting Euro 3 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is exhaust manifold stud fracture, which can lead to exhaust leaks and failed emissions tests. This issue, noted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑99‑041, stems from thermal cycling fatigue in the cast‑iron manifold. Later service replacements used upgraded stud materials to mitigate recurrence.
All production years 1998–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2000/6543).
The Vauxhall X 16 XE is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (1998–2005). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve layout to deliver responsive low‑speed performance and frugal fuel use. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances urban practicality with mechanical simplicity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.8 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 74 kW (101 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M1.5.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 102 kg |
The DOHC 16‑valve layout provides crisp throttle response suited to mixed driving but requires precise timing belt maintenance to prevent interference damage. Timing belt replacement every 60,000 km or 4 years is critical. Use of GM‑LL‑A‑025 (10W‑40) oil ensures proper camshaft and tappet lubrication. Exhaust manifold stud failure is common after 80,000 km; upgraded replacement kits per TSB‑99‑041 are recommended during manifold servicing. Fuel must meet EN 228 (95 RON minimum); ethanol blends above E5 may degrade injector seals over time.
Oil Specs: Requires GM‑LL‑A‑025 (10W‑40) specification (Vauxhall Owner’s Manual 2002). Equivalent ACEA A3/B3 oils permitted.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1998–2005 X 16 XE units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2000/6543).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Vauxhall PT‑2004.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V1015, V1028
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2000/6543)
EU Directive 98/69/EC (Euro 3 Implementation)
The Vauxhall X 16 XE was used across Vauxhall's Astra G, Zafira A, and Corsa C platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Zafira A for NVH refinement and updated intake manifolds for throttle response—and from 2002 the facelifted Astra G retained the same engine code but with updated ECU calibrations for OBD‑II compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS V1015). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('6' for 1.6L). All models use Bosch Motronic M1.5.5 ECU with round 38‑pin connector under the bonnet. Critical differentiation from SOHC X16SZ: X 16 XE has DOHC with 16 valves and dual camshaft access plugs. Service parts for exhaust manifolds require production date verification—studs before 05/2001 are prone to fracture (TSB‑99‑041).
The X 16 XE's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold stud fracture, with elevated incidence in high‑mileage or stop‑start urban use. Vauxhall internal data from 2004 indicated over 14% of engines required manifold repair before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show exhaust gas leakage as a top emissions failure cause for Astra G 1.6i 16V models. Thermal cycling and aggressive driving accelerate stud fatigue, making timely replacement with upgraded hardware critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1998–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-16-XE.
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
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VCA Certification Portal
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