The Vauxhall Z16SE is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2008. It features sequential multi‑point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16‑valve configuration. In standard form it delivered 77 kW (105 PS) and 150 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive urban driving and everyday reliability.
Fitted to models such as the Astra H, Zafira B, and Corsa C, the Z16SE was designed for cost‑effective ownership with smooth low‑to‑mid‑range performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 3 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑03‑07‑12. This issue is often linked to infrequent oil changes or use of non‑specification oil. The Z16SE was succeeded by the updated Z16XEP with variable valve timing and improved emissions control.
Production years 2002–2008 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Vauxhall Z16SE is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2002–2008). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver predictable throttle response and low‑maintenance operation. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritises drivability and serviceability over peak efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 77.8 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.5) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM‑LL‑A‑001 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The DOHC 16‑valve layout provides smooth power delivery but demands adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft lobe wear. GM‑LL‑A‑001 (10W‑40) oil is critical for maintaining hydraulic tappet function and cam lubrication. Extended service intervals or incorrect oil viscosity accelerate wear on the exhaust cam, especially under high‑load conditions. The front‑mounted timing chain is generally robust but requires inspection if valvetrain noise appears. The Bosch ME7.5 ECU supports OBD‑II diagnostics, enabling precise fault tracing for emissions or drivability issues.
Oil Specs: Requires GM‑LL‑A‑001 (10W‑40) specification (Vauxhall TSB 03‑07‑12). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2002–2008 Z16SE models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Vauxhall PT‑2003.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V‑1502, V‑1505, TSB 03‑07‑12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall Z16SE was used across Vauxhall's Astra H, Zafira B, and Corsa C platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global small‑petrol strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Zafira and modified intake manifolds in the Astra—creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Vauxhall TIS V‑1502). The 7th VIN digit for Vauxhall models is 'Z' for the Z16SE engine family. Visual identification: silver alloy valve cover with '1.6 16V' badge; Bosch ME7.5 ECU mounted in the engine bay. Critical differentiation from later Z16XEP: Z16SE lacks variable valve timing (no cam phaser on intake cam) and uses a conventional throttle body. Service parts are not interchangeable between Z16SE and Z16XEP due to camshaft and ECU differences.
The Z16SE's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non‑specification oil or extended service intervals. Vauxhall internal data from 2005 indicated up to 12% of high‑mileage engines required cam replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show catalytic converter faults as the second-most common emissions issue in this generation. Infrequent oil changes and short‑trip driving accelerate wear, making oil quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2003–2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-16-SE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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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)
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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