The Vauxhall X 22 SE is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2003. It features multi‑point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and 8 valves. In standard form it delivers 98 kW (133 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering smooth and linear power delivery for mid‑size sedans and estates.
Fitted to models such as the Omega B and Vectra B, the X 22 SE was engineered for relaxed motorway cruising, reliability under sustained load, and compliance with Euro 2 emissions standards. Emissions control was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, allowing baseline regulatory compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner and idler pulleys, noted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 06‑014. This is attributed to marginal bearing lubrication under extended thermal cycling and infrequent oil changes. From 1999, revised tensioner materials and updated belt kits were introduced to improve service life.
All production years (1995–2003) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2233).
The Vauxhall X 22 SE is a 2,198 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and estates (1995–2003). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with SOHC architecture to deliver dependable highway performance and torque. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical robustness and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 98 kW (133 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MPFI (multi‑point fuel injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven SOHC (replace every 60,000 km or 4 years) | |
| Oil type | ACEA A2/B2 or GM 9310M (10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 124 kg |
The SOHC valvetrain provides robust and predictable performance ideal for motorway cruising but requires strict adherence to timing belt and oil change intervals (max 10,000 km or 12 months) to prevent tensioner pulley failure and cam wear. ACEA A2/B2 or GM 9310M 10W‑40 oil is essential for upper valvetrain and timing component lubrication. Use only RON 95+ fuel meeting EN 228 standards to avoid knock and injector fouling. Post‑1999 engines include revised tensioner pulleys per Vauxhall SIB 06‑014; pre‑1999 units benefit from proactive inspection of belt tensioner condition during major services.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A2/B2 or GM 9310M specification (Vauxhall Owner's Manual Omega B 1996).
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2003 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2233).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output assumes RON 95 fuel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V‑ENG‑X22‑05).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V‑ENG‑X22‑01 through V‑ENG‑X22‑05, SIB 06‑014
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2233)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall X 22 SE was used across Vauxhall's Omega B and Vectra B platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Omega B estate and modified accessory drive routing in the Vectra B—and from 1999 received updated timing belt tensioner kits, 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 crankshaft pulley (Vauxhall TIS V‑ENG‑X22‑01). The 7th VIN digit is 'X' for this engine family. Pre-1999 units use early-design tensioner pulley; post-1999 revisions use updated bearing per SIB 06‑014. Visual differentiation: all X 22 SE units have black plastic cam covers with '2.2i' embossed. Do not confuse with carburetted X 22 S (8V) which lacks fuel injection and has different intake manifold. Timing belt kits are not interchangeable between pre- and post-1999 builds due to pulley profile changes.
The X 22 SE's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner and idler pulley failure under sustained motorway use or infrequent servicing, with elevated incidence in pre-1999 builds. Vauxhall internal data from 2002 indicated a measurable uptick in belt-related breakdowns for early units before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalyst design. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality oil increase upper valvetrain and timing component stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1995–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998–2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-22-SE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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