The Vauxhall Z16LEL is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2012. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 77 kW (105 PS) and 150 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive urban performance and low emissions.
Fitted to models such as the Astra H, Zafira B, and Corsa D—including the 1.6i and 1.6 TwinPort variants—the Z16LEL was designed for drivers seeking a balance of fuel economy, refinement, and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 4 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves and throttle bodies, particularly in vehicles used for frequent short trips. This issue is referenced in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 07‑022, which notes reduced airflow and idle instability in affected units. From 2008, revised intake manifolds and updated ECU maps mitigated the problem in later Astra H and Zafira B builds.
All production years 2005–2012 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3892).
The Vauxhall Z16LEL is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2005–2012). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver smooth mid‑range response and urban fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.5 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 3,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.9) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos2 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for mixed driving but requires consistent oil changes every 15,000 km to protect the front-mounted timing chain. GM Dexos2 (5W-30) oil is recommended to maintain valve train cleanliness and reduce carbon deposits. Short-trip driving accelerates throttle body and intake valve fouling—per Vauxhall SIB 07 022—and may cause rough idle or hesitation. Bosch ME7.9 ECUs benefit from periodic throttle adaptation resets after cleaning. EGR systems should be inspected for coking, which can trigger limp mode in high-mileage units.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos2 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall SIB 08 022). Compatible with ACEA C3 but includes OEM-specific detergent package.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2012 Z16LEL models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3892). No Euro 5 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output assumes RON 95 petrol (Vauxhall TIS Doc. VP1625).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VP1612, VP1618, SIB 07 022
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3892)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall Z16LEL was used across Vauxhall's Delta and Epsilon platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global small-engine strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intake manifolds in the Astra H and modified cooling in the Zafira B—and from 2008 the facelifted Astra H models adopted updated ECU calibrations, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (Vauxhall TIS VP1612). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Z' for Z16 series). All Z16LEL units feature a black plastic valve cover with '1.6' branding. Critical differentiation from Z16XEP: Z16LEL uses Bosch ME7.9 ECU and TwinPort variable intake geometry. Bosch ECU is mounted on the firewall. Service parts for intake manifolds require production date verification—units before 06/2008 use different runner geometry per Vauxhall SIB 07 022.
The Z16LEL's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on throttle bodies and intake valves, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Vauxhall internal data from 2009 indicated a significant share of pre-2008 builds required throttle cleaning before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show emissions-related failures in high-mileage Astra Hs. Short-trip driving and infrequent oil changes accelerate deposit formation, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2007–2011) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-16-LEL.
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
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