The Vauxhall Y22XE is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1999 and 2005. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 108 kW (147 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 205 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing smooth mid‑range response for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Vectra B (X20XEV replacement), Signum, and early Zafira A, the Y22XE was engineered for refined cruising and responsive urban performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 3 certification across all production years.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking near the exhaust ports, particularly in high‑mileage or overheated units. This issue, referenced in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑01‑03‑07, is attributed to thermal stress in the aluminium head casting. Later ECOTEC variants (Z22XE) introduced revised coolant passages and head material to mitigate this failure mode.
All production years (1999–2005) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2001/0876).
The Vauxhall Y22XE is a 2,198 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size family vehicles (1999–2005). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver linear power delivery and smooth refinement. 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‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 108 kW (147 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch Motronic M7.9.7) | |
| 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 | GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 10W‑40 or 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Y22XE offers smooth, linear power delivery ideal for motorway cruising but is sensitive to cooling system integrity—overheating significantly increases the risk of cylinder head cracking near exhaust ports. Use of GM‑LL‑A‑025‑compliant oil (10W‑40 or 5W‑40) is essential to maintain valve train longevity and oil pressure stability. The Bosch Motronic system requires 95 RON minimum fuel; prolonged use of lower octane can cause knock and pre‑ignition damage. Early detection of coolant loss or white exhaust smoke is critical—per TSB‑01‑03‑07, cracked heads often manifest after repeated thermal cycles. Regular coolant replacement (every 2 years) with OEM‑approved ethylene glycol mix helps prevent corrosion and head gasket stress.
Oil Specs: Requires GM‑LL‑A‑025 specification (Vauxhall Owner’s Manual, 2002). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1999–2005 Y22XE units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2001/0876). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel and ambient conditions per EU Directive 93/116/EEC.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS‑Y22‑101 to TIS‑Y22‑104
Vauxhall Service Bulletin TSB‑01‑03‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2001/0876)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall Y22XE was used across Vauxhall's Vectra B and Signum platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Opel under GM’s global ECOTEC strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Zafira A and revised intake manifolds in the Signum—and from 2003 the Z22XE direct-injection successor introduced aluminium-silicon block changes, creating 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‑Y22‑106). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('2' for 2.2L). Y22XE units feature a black plastic intake manifold with 'ECOTEC' branding and a Bosch Motronic M7.9.7 ECU mounted near the firewall. Critical differentiation from Z22XE: Y22XE uses port fuel injection with external coil packs; Z22XE has direct injection and integrated coil-on-plug. Engine blocks are visually similar, but Y22XE lacks high-pressure fuel rail and camshaft position sensor on exhaust cam.
The Y22XE's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking between exhaust valves, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to repeated overheating or extended high-load operation. Vauxhall internal quality data from 2004 indicated a measurable uptick in head replacements beyond 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show coolant system faults as a leading cause of advisory notices in Vectra B diesels and petrols alike. Thermal cycling and delayed coolant maintenance make proactive cooling system care critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2001–2006) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Y-22-XE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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