The Vauxhall X 22 XE is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2003. It features single overhead camshaft (SOHC), multi‑point fuel injection, and an 8‑valve configuration. In standard form it delivers 98 kW (133 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, providing smooth and linear performance for mid‑size sedans and estates.
Fitted to models such as the Vectra B, Omega B, and Frontera B, the X 22 XE was engineered for durability, towing capability, and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a conventional three‑way catalytic converter, allowing adherence to Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, noted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin PI0108. This is attributed to marginal surface hardness in early-production camshafts under sustained high‑load operation. From 1998, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated valve clearance specifications were introduced to mitigate this issue.
All production years (1995–2003) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1345).
The Vauxhall X 22 XE is a 2,198 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans, estates, and SUVs (1995–2003). It combines multi-point fuel injection with SOHC 8-valve architecture to deliver predictable power and robust low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability over high output.
| 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 | 200 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch MPFI (multi‑point fuel injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted, service interval 60,000 km or 4 years) | |
| Oil type | GM‑LL‑A‑001 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The SOHC design offers mechanical simplicity but requires strict adherence to the 60,000 km or 4‑year timing belt replacement interval to prevent catastrophic interference damage. Use of GM‑LL‑A‑001–approved oil (10W‑40) is essential to manage exhaust cam lobe wear, especially in pre‑1998 units. Extended oil change intervals beyond 10,000 km may accelerate cam wear and increase valve train noise. Vauxhall SIB PI0108 recommends inspection of cam lobes during major services on pre‑1998 engines; replacement with updated camshaft (P/N 90425610) if pitting is evident.
Oil Specs: Requires GM‑LL‑A‑001 specification (Vauxhall Owner's Manual Vectra B 1996). Equivalent to ACEA A2/B2.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2003 X 22 XE engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1345).
Power Ratings: Measured under EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 reference conditions. Output assumes RON 95 fuel and ambient temperature per ISO 1585.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS-X22XE-01, TIS-X22XE-02
Vauxhall Service Bulletin PI0108
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1345)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Vauxhall X 22 XE was used across Vauxhall's Vectra B, Omega B, and Frontera B platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Frontera for off-road durability and modified accessory brackets in the Omega—and from 1998 minor camshaft updates were introduced to address lobe wear, 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-X22XE-01). The 7th and 8th VIN digits identify engine variant ('X2' for X 22 XE). All units use Bosch Motronic 2.8 ECU with black casing. Critical differentiation from C22NE: X 22 XE uses multi-point injection (C22NE is throttle-body injection). Service parts for camshaft require production date verification—units before 01/1998 use part number 90398720; later units use 90425610 with hardened lobes (Vauxhall SIB PI0108).
The X 22 XE's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-rpm or towing use. Vauxhall internal data from 2001 indicated a measurable uptick in camshaft replacements before 120,000 km for 1995–1997 units, while UK DVSA records show catalytic converter degradation as the second-most common emissions fault in high-mileage examples. Extended oil intervals and incorrect viscosity amplify cam and timing belt stress, making adherence to GM‑LL‑A‑001 oil and belt replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1996–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2003–2013). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-22-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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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