The Vauxhall X 17 DTL is a 1,686 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It features a single fixed-geometry turbocharger, indirect injection via a prechamber, and single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves. In standard form it delivers 55 kW (75 PS) and 170 Nm of torque, providing modest low-end pull for compact hatchbacks and entry-level commercial vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Astra G, Corsa C, and Combo B, the X 17 DTL was engineered for cost-effective urban mobility and fleet durability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), allowing adherence to Euro 3 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature failure of the vacuum-operated turbo wastegate actuator, noted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin PI0211. This is attributed to diaphragm fatigue under repeated thermal cycling and exposure to underbonnet ozone. From 2003, revised actuator materials and updated vacuum hose routing were introduced to improve reliability.

All production years (2000–2005) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2233).
The Vauxhall X 17 DTL is a 1,686 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and light commercial vehicles (2000–2005). It combines indirect injection with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver predictable low-rpm torque and fleet-grade durability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes simplicity and serviceability over high performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,686 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel (EN 590) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (fixed geometry) | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 82.6 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VE rotary distributor pump with indirect injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 18.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed-geometry turbo (KKK) | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted, service interval 60,000 km or 4 years) | |
| Oil type | GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable boost but lacks low-end responsiveness; it requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km or 4-year timing belt replacement to prevent interference damage. Use of GM‑LL‑A‑025–approved oil (10W‑40) is essential to manage soot and maintain injector pump longevity. Extended oil change intervals beyond 15,000 km may accelerate wear in the Bosch VE pump and turbo actuator. Vauxhall SIB PI0211 recommends replacing the wastegate actuator with updated part number (90472150) for pre-2003 engines exhibiting boost control faults.
Oil Specs: Requires GM‑LL‑A‑025 specification (Vauxhall Owner's Manual Astra G 2001). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2000–2005 X 17 DTL engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2233).
Power Ratings: Measured under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007. Output assumes EN 590 diesel and ambient conditions per ISO 1585.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS-X17DTL-01, TIS-X17DTL-02, TIS-X17DTL-03
Vauxhall Service Bulletin PI0211
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2233)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Vauxhall X 17 DTL was used across Vauxhall's Astra G, Corsa C, and Combo B platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Combo for commercial load tolerance and modified air intake routing in the Corsa—and from 2003 minor turbo actuator updates were introduced to address wastegate reliability, 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-X17DTL-01). The 7th and 8th VIN digits identify engine variant ('X7' for X 17 DTL). All units use Bosch EDC15C4 ECU with black casing. Critical differentiation from X17DT: X 17 DTL has turbocharger and EGR; X17DT is naturally aspirated. Service parts for turbo actuator require production date verification—units before 01/2003 use part number 90461080; later units use 90472150 with reinforced diaphragm (Vauxhall SIB PI0211).
The X 17 DTL's primary reliability risk is turbo wastegate actuator failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Vauxhall internal data from 2004 indicated a measurable uptick in actuator replacements before 90,000 km for 2000–2002 units, while UK DVSA records show EGR-related faults as the second-most common emissions issue in high-mileage examples. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel amplify pump and turbo stress, making adherence to GM‑LL‑A‑025 oil and EN 590 diesel critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2002–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-17-DTL.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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EUR-Lex
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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.
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