The Vauxhall X 20 SE is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2000. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8‑valve architecture with multi‑point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering 85 kW (115 PS) and 170 Nm of torque. Its cast‑iron block and simple valvetrain prioritise durability and low-cost ownership.
Fitted primarily to the Omega B, Vectra B, and Frontera B—including the 2.0i and 2.0 GL trims—the X 20 SE was engineered for dependable everyday performance and light towing capability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and sequential fuel injection, meeting Euro 2 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is distributor ignition module failure, which can lead to intermittent misfires and no‑start conditions. This issue, noted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑96‑028, stems from thermal degradation of the Hall effect sensor in the distributor assembly. Later service replacements used improved thermal shielding to mitigate recurrence.
All production years 1995–2000 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1997/3210).
The Vauxhall X 20 SE is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and SUVs (1995–2000). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver predictable low‑speed performance and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances urban practicality with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (115 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M1.5.2) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The SOHC 8‑valve layout provides dependable low‑rpm response suited to mixed driving but lacks high‑rpm refinement. Timing belt replacement every 60,000 km or 4 years is critical to prevent interference damage. Use of GM‑LL‑A‑025 (10W‑40) oil ensures proper valve train lubrication. Distributor ignition module failure is common after 120,000 km; upgraded replacement kits per TSB‑96‑028 are recommended during 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 1998). Equivalent ACEA A3/B3 oils permitted.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2000 X 20 SE units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1997/3210).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Vauxhall PT‑1999.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V1008, V1012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1997/3210)
EU Directive 94/12/EC (Euro 2 Implementation)
The Vauxhall X 20 SE was used across Vauxhall's Omega B, Vectra B, and Frontera B platforms with longitudinal or transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Omega B for NVH refinement and updated intake manifolds for throttle response—and from 1998 the facelifted Vectra B retained the same engine code but with updated ECU calibrations for OBD‑I diagnostics, 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 V1008). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('0' for 2.0L). All models use Bosch Motronic M1.5.2 ECU with round diagnostic connector under the bonnet. Critical differentiation from DOHC X20XEV: X 20 SE has SOHC with 8 valves and distributor-based ignition. Distributor part number changes after 07/1997—units before this date are prone to thermal sensor failure per TSB‑96‑028.
The X 20 SE's primary reliability risk is distributor ignition module failure, with elevated incidence in high‑mileage or hot‑climate use. Vauxhall internal data from 1999 indicated over 16% of engines required distributor replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show ignition-related misfires as a recurring cause of emissions failure for Vectra B 2.0i models. Thermal cycling accelerates sensor degradation, making timely replacement with upgraded hardware critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1995–2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-20-SE.
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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