The Vauxhall X20XER is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2012. It features sequential multi‑point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16‑valve configuration with variable valve timing on the intake cam. In standard form it delivered 103 kW (140 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive mid‑range performance and smooth everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Astra H, Zafira B, and Insignia A, the X20XER was designed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate power for mid‑size applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control, variable valve timing, and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 4 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on the intake valves and cam phaser sticking, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑06‑08‑15. This issue is often linked to short‑trip driving cycles and infrequent oil changes. The X20XER succeeded the Z20XE and was later replaced by the turbocharged A20NHT in downsizing strategies.
Production years 2005–2012 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6543).
The Vauxhall X20XER is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size hatchbacks and estates (2005–2012). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with variable valve timing on the intake cam to deliver linear power delivery and improved low‑end responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances efficiency with serviceability.
| 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 @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM‑LL‑A‑001 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 120 kg |
The DOHC layout with variable intake timing provides improved low-end torque and smoother idle but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent cam phaser sticking and carbon buildup. GM‑LL‑A‑001 (10W‑40) oil is critical for maintaining hydraulic phaser function and tappet lubrication. Short-trip driving accelerates intake valve coking due to lack of sustained high temperatures. The front-mounted timing chain is generally robust but requires inspection if valvetrain noise appears. The Bosch ME7.8 ECU supports OBD‑II diagnostics for precise emissions and drivability fault tracing.
Oil Specs: Requires GM‑LL‑A‑001 (10W‑40) specification (Vauxhall TSB 06‑08‑15). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2012 X20XER models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6543). No Euro 5 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Vauxhall PT‑2006.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V‑2020, V‑2025, TSB 06‑08‑15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6543)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall X20XER was used across Vauxhall's Astra H, Zafira B, and Insignia A platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global mid‑petrol strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Zafira and modified intake manifolds in the Insignia—creating minor service part differences. 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‑2020). The 7th VIN digit for Vauxhall models is 'X' for the X20XER engine family. Visual identification: black plastic valve cover with '2.0 16V' badge; Bosch ME7.8 ECU mounted in the engine bay. Critical differentiation from earlier Z20XE: X20XER features a cam phaser on the intake camshaft (visible as a cylindrical housing on the front of the intake cam sprocket). Service parts are not interchangeable between X20XER and non-VVT engines due to camshaft and ECU differences.
The X20XER's primary reliability risk is cam phaser sticking and intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in vehicles used primarily for short urban trips. Vauxhall internal data from 2009 indicated up to 16% of high-mileage engines exhibited phaser-related timing faults before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show catalytic converter degradation as the second-most common emissions issue in this generation. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality fuel accelerate deposit formation, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2006–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X20XER.
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)
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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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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