The Vauxhall Z14XE is a 1,364 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with 16 valves and sequential multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 66 kW (90 PS) and 125 Nm of torque, providing responsive low-end performance for compact urban driving.
Fitted to models such as the Corsa C and Meriva A, the Z14XE was engineered for drivers prioritising fuel economy, low emissions, and city manoeuvrability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and precise electronic throttle control, allowing it to meet Euro 3 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on the intake valves and EGR passages, which can cause rough idle and hesitation. This issue, referenced in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TIS 05‑02‑04, is linked to sustained low-load operation and infrequent highway driving. Vauxhall recommended periodic cleaning of the throttle body and EGR system to restore smooth operation.
All production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3421).
The Vauxhall Z14XE is a 1,364 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2000–2005). It combines DOHC architecture with sequential multi-point injection to deliver brisk low-speed response and urban drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances economy with adequate performance for city and suburban use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,364 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.8 mm × 72.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos2 5W‑30 (or ACEA A3/B4 equivalent) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The DOHC inline‑4 layout offers crisp throttle response ideal for city driving but is prone to carbon buildup in the EGR and throttle body under frequent short-trip conditions. GM Dexos2 (or ACEA A3/B4) 5W‑30 oil ensures proper lubrication and minimises sludge. Extended idling or low-RPM driving without periodic highway use accelerates intake deposits, leading to idle instability. Vauxhall recommends cleaning the throttle body and EGR valve every 60,000 km or as needed per TIS 05‑02‑04. The Bosch Motronic ECU requires OEM-spec spark plugs to maintain ignition stability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos2 or ACEA A3/B4 5W-30 specification (Vauxhall SIB 05-02-04).
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all Z14XE production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3421).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. COR‑P2002).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs COR‑A1122, COR‑T2001, SIB 05-02-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3421)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall Z14XE was used across Vauxhall's Corsa C and Meriva A platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Meriva and updated intake manifolds in facelifted Corsa C models—and from 2003 the updated EGR calibration created minor service distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Vauxhall TIS COR‑ID01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('E' for 1.4L 16V). Early models (2000–2002) use silver cam covers with a single EGR pipe; post-2003 units feature black cam covers and revised EGR routing. Critical differentiation from X14XE: Z14XE uses DOHC and Bosch ME7.5 ECU, while X14XE is SOHC with Siemens control. Throttle body design changed in 2003—pre-2003 parts are not interchangeable without ECU adaptation (Vauxhall SIB 05-02-04).
The Z14XE's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup in the throttle body and EGR system, with elevated incidence in vehicles used exclusively for urban short trips. Vauxhall internal data from 2004 indicated a notable portion of Corsa C 1.4i models required EGR cleaning before 70,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased idle instability failures in high-mileage examples. Infrequent highway driving and extended idling accelerate deposit formation, making periodic cleaning critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2002–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-14-XE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VAUXHALL or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVAUXHALL documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
