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 cruisin…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The Y22SE offers smooth performance and strong build quality, but early examples (2000–2002) are prone to oil sludge if not maintained properly. Later models (2003–2005) benefit from PCV updates. With regular oil changes using GM‑LL‑A‑025 spec oil, the engine can reliably exceed 250,000 km.
Top issues include oil sludge in the cylinder head, intake manifold runner actuator failure, coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing, and collapsed PCV hoses. These are documented in Vauxhall TSB 02‑07‑03 and owner service records.
The Y22SE was used exclusively in the Vauxhall Omega B (2000–2005), including both saloon and estate body styles, in 2.2i and MV6 trims. It was not used in Corsa, Astra, or Vectra models, which used four-cylinder engines.
Modest gains are possible. ECU remapping typically yields +10–15 kW, limited by the naturally aspirated design. Forced induction is complex due to space and fuel system constraints. Most owners focus on drivability improvements rather than significant power increases.
Real-world consumption averages 9.5–11.0 L/100km (26–25 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can achieve 7.8 L/100km (36 mpg UK), while city driving may exceed 12 L/100km. Economy is typical for a 2.2L inline‑6 of this era.
Yes. The Y22SE is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is designed as maintenance-free and rarely fails if oil is kept clean.
Vauxhall specifies 10W‑40 or 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting GM‑LL‑A‑025 standard. This ensures proper sludge control and high-temperature protection. Change every 10,000 km or 12 months, especially with short-trip driving.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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