The Vauxhall Y26SE is a 2,599 cc, 60° V6 petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2004. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with four valves per cylinder and sequential multi — point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 125 kW (170 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 245 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing smooth power delivery for mid — size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Omega B (Vauxhall Omega), Signum, and Vectra C, including the Omega 2.6i and Signum 2.6,…
Production years 1998–2004 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Vauxhall Y26SE is a 2,599 cc 60° V6 petrol engine engineered for executive and mid-size sedans (1998–2004). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with sequential multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances performance with drivability in both urban and motorway conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,599 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 82.6 mm | |
Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
Torque | 245 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC (dual chains) | |
Oil type | Vauxhall GM-LL-A-025 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 168 kg |
The Vauxhall Y26SE was used across Vauxhall's Omega B and Vectra C platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Signum and modified accessory drive layouts in the Omega—and from 2002 the Vectra C received updated PCV components, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The Y26SE's primary reliability risk is oil sludge accumulation in the cylinder head, with elevated incidence in vehicles used primarily for short urban trips. Vauxhall internal service data from 2003 indicated a notable rate of head cleaning or replacement before 150,000 km in affected fleets, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased oil consumption and emissions failures linked to PCV system degradation. Frequent cold starts and infrequent oil changes accelerate sludge formation, making oil quality and change intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2000–2005) 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 Y26SE offers smooth V6 performance but early models (1998–2001) are prone to oil sludge if not maintained properly. Later revisions (post-2002) with improved PCV systems are more robust. Regular oil changes with GM-LL-A-025 (5W-30) oil and avoiding frequent short trips greatly improve longevity.
Top issues include oil sludge in the cylinder head, intake manifold runner actuator failure, coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing, and exhaust manifold stud corrosion. These are documented in Vauxhall service bulletins, especially TSB-03-07-01 for sludge concerns.
The Y26SE was used in the Omega B (2.6i, 1998–2003), Vectra C (2.6 GSi/SRi, 2002–2004), and Signum (2.6, 2003–2004). It was not used in Corsa, Astra, or Zafira models, which used smaller four-cylinder engines.
Yes. The Y26SE responds well to ECU remapping (+10–15 kW), performance exhausts, and cold-air intakes. The robust bottom end can handle moderate increases, but head gasket integrity should be monitored. Forced induction is rare and not recommended without significant internal upgrades.
Typical consumption is ~11.5 L/100km (city) and ~7.2 L/100km (highway), or about 28 mpg UK combined in a Vectra C 2.6 GSi. Real-world figures range from 25–32 mpg (UK) depending on driving style and vehicle condition.
Yes. The Y26SE is an interference engine. If the timing chains fail or jump (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the dual-chain design is generally reliable with proper maintenance.
Vauxhall specifies SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting GM-LL-A-025 (or equivalent ACEA A3/B4). Change every 10,000 km or annually. Using correct oil is critical to prevent sludge, especially in pre-2002 engines.
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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