The Vauxhall Y22SE is a 2,198 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 108 kW (147 PS) at 5,600 rpm with 205 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing smooth power delivery suitable for mid‑size sedans and coupés.
Fitted to models such as the Omega B (Vauxhall Omega), the Y22SE was engineered for refined cruising and linear throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic engine management with catalytic converter and oxygen sensors, allowing adherence to Euro 3 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is oil sludge accumulation in the cylinder head, particularly in vehicles subjected to repeated short trips. This issue, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑02‑07‑03, stems from inadequate crankcase ventilation and infrequent oil changes. From 2003 onward, revised PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) components were introduced to mitigate this risk.
All production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2001/0892).
The Vauxhall Y22SE is a 2,198 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and coupés (2000–2005). It combines DOHC 24‑valve architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances drivability with moderate fuel consumption.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 108 kW (147 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 10W‑40 or 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The inline‑6 layout provides inherent balance and smooth operation but requires diligent oil maintenance to prevent sludge buildup in the rocker cover and oil return galleries. Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 oil (10W‑40 or 5W‑40) is critical due to its detergency profile for high‑temperature petrol engines. Short‑trip driving without periodic extended runs accelerates sludge formation; owners should adhere to 10,000 km or 12‑month oil intervals. The Bosch Motronic system demands clean fuel meeting EN 228 standards. Revised PCV valves from 2003 (per TSB 02‑07‑03) improve crankcase pressure control and reduce oil carryover.
Oil Specs: Requires Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 specification (Vauxhall TSB 02‑07‑03). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all Y22SE production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2001/0892). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output consistent across all applications (Vauxhall TIS Doc. VTIS‑A3312).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VTIS‑A3312, VTIS‑A3401
Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB 02‑07‑03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2001/0892)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall Y22SE was used across Vauxhall's Omega B platform with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts and unique exhaust manifolds in the Omega MV6—and from 2003 the facelifted Omega B2 models retained the same engine but with updated emissions hardware, creating minor ECU calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front left side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS VTIS‑A3312). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('Y' for Y22SE). Pre-2003 models use silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2003 B2 models feature black valve covers and revised airbox routing. Critical differentiation from Z22SE: Y22SE has 24 valves and DOHC; Z22SE is a 16-valve SOHC unit. ECU part numbers differ—Y22SE uses Bosch 0 261 206 XXX series. Service parts for PCV and rocker cover gaskets changed in 2003 per TSB 02‑07‑03.
The Y22SE's primary reliability risk is oil sludge accumulation in the cylinder head, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short journeys. Vauxhall internal quality data from 2004 indicated a measurable increase in rocker cover deposits in engines with oil change intervals exceeding 15,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show elevated oil consumption failures in Omega B models with neglected maintenance. Cold ambient temperatures and infrequent highway driving exacerbate sludge formation, making oil specification and service interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2002–2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Y-22-SE.
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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