The Vauxhall Z16XE is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2005. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16‑valve layout with sequential multi‑point fuel injection and a cast‑iron block with aluminium cylinder head. In standard form it delivered 74 kW (101 PS) and 150 Nm of torque, providing responsive urban performance and smooth highway cruising.
Fitted primarily to the Astra G, Zafira A, and Corsa C models—including the 1.6 variants—the Z16XE was engineered for everyday reliability and cost‑effective maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, meeting Euro 3 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature failure of the exhaust manifold due to thermal fatigue, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Information Bulletin SIB 02‑014. The cast‑iron manifold develops cracks near the flange after repeated heat cycles, leading to exhaust leaks, oxygen sensor errors, and increased emissions.
All production years (1998–2005) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Vauxhall Z16XE is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (1998–2005). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC valve actuation to deliver smooth power delivery and dependable urban drivability. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances simplicity with serviceability.
| 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 | 74 kW (101 PS) | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI (sequential) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos1 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The DOHC layout provides smooth high‑rpm performance but requires strict 60,000 km timing belt replacement to prevent interference damage. GM Dexos1 (10W‑40) oil is recommended for optimal valve train protection. The exhaust manifold is prone to cracking near the cylinder head flange—symptoms include ticking exhaust noise and P0171/P0174 codes. Replacement with revised manifold per SIB 02‑014 is advised for high‑mileage units. Use only RON 95 petrol to maintain emissions compliance and prevent knock.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 (10W‑40) specification (Vauxhall SIB 02‑018). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all Z16XE production (1998–2005) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all model applications (Vauxhall TIS Doc. AST‑ENG‑016).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs AST‑ENG‑016, SIB 02‑014, SIB 02‑018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall Z16XE was used across Vauxhall's Astra G, Zafira A, and Corsa C platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Zafira for NVH control and modified intake manifolds in the Corsa—and from 2002 minor ECU updates improved cold-start behavior, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS AST‑ENG‑016). The 7th VIN digit is 'Z' for Z16XE engines. All variants use a black plastic cam cover with "16V" embossed. Critical differentiation from X16XEL: Z16XE has DOHC with two camshafts visible under the cover; X16XEL is SOHC with one camshaft. Timing belt kits are not interchangeable with Z16XEP due to different tensioner geometry (Vauxhall SIB 03‑009).
The Z16XE's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold cracking due to thermal cycling, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban use. Vauxhall internal data from 2004 indicated over 12% of engines required manifold replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show exhaust-related failures in 9% of Astra G petrols from this era. Extended idling and aggressive driving accelerate thermal stress, making manifold inspection critical during service.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1998–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-16-XE.
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)
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
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VCA Certification Portal
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