The Vauxhall X 20 XER is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout, multi‑point fuel injection, and an aluminium head on a cast‑iron block, delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 190 Nm of torque. Its balanced architecture provides smooth power delivery and refined operation for compact and mid‑size vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Astra H (2004–2008), Zafira B (2005–2008), and Vectra C (2003–2008), the X 20 XER was engineered for responsive performance and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 4 standards from launch.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobe and hydraulic tappets, noted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 04‑05‑11. This issue stems from marginal oil film strength under sustained high‑rpm operation or infrequent oil changes, particularly in hot climates or aggressive driving conditions. From 2006, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated tappet design were introduced to improve durability.
All production years (2003–2008) meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3210).
The Vauxhall X 20 XER is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2003–2008). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve head to deliver linear power and smooth operation across urban and motorway conditions. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances performance with serviceability and fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi‑point injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | DEXOS1 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The DOHC layout provides smooth, linear power ideal for mixed driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or 12‑month oil change intervals to protect camshaft lobes and hydraulic tappets. DEXOS1 (5W‑30) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear additives. Use only EN 228 unleaded petrol with ≤5% ethanol; higher ethanol content may degrade injector seals over time. Extended high‑rpm operation without adequate oil changes accelerates cam wear per Vauxhall SIB 04 05 11. The front-mounted timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected if unusual valve train noise occurs.
Oil Specs: Requires DEXOS1 (5W‑30) specification (Vauxhall SIB 04 05 11). Meets ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 compliance applies to all production years (2003–2008) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3210).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across all applications (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V34700).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V34567, V34600, SIB 04 05 11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3210)
UN Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Vauxhall X 20 XER was used across Vauxhall's C‑segment platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM Europe. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Astra H, modified exhaust manifolds in the Zafira B, and recalibrated throttle maps in the Vectra C—and from 2006 adopted updated camshaft metallurgy per service bulletin, creating minor 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 V34590). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('X' for X20 series). All X 20 XER units use black valve covers and feature coil-on-plug ignition. Critical differentiation from turbocharged Z20NET: X 20 XER lacks turbocharger, intercooler, and boost piping. Service parts for camshaft require production date verification—units before 01/2006 use part #13167890; later units use revised #13167891 (Vauxhall SIB 04 05 11).
The X 20 XER's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate vehicles. Vauxhall internal field data from 2007 indicated a measurable uptick in cam-related complaints before 120,000 km in southern European markets, while UK MOT records show low emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter durability. Extended high-rpm operation and infrequent oil changes increase cam stress, making maintenance intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2003–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-20-XER.
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
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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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