The Vauxhall Z16XE1 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2008. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16‑valve layout with sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 77 kW (105 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 150 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, providing responsive performance for compact applications.
Fitted to models such as the Astra H, Zafira B, and Corsa C—including the Astra 1.6i and Zafira 1.6— the Z16XE1 was engineered for everyday drivability with a focus on refinement and fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobe and tappet, leading to valve train noise and reduced performance. This issue, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑04‑09‑02, is attributed to marginal lubrication under high‑temperature conditions and was addressed in 2005 with revised camshaft metallurgy and updated tappet design.
Production years 2002–2008 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Vauxhall Z16XE1 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2002–2008). It combines DOHC 16‑valve architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances responsive performance with everyday economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 81.5 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.4) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve layout provides smooth, responsive power ideal for city and motorway use but requires regular oil changes every 10,000 km using GM-LL-A-025 (5W-30) oil to ensure adequate camshaft lubrication. Early engines (2002–2004) are prone to exhaust cam lobe wear due to thermal stress and marginal oil film strength. Revised camshafts introduced in 2005 feature improved surface hardening. The Bosch Motronic system relies on consistent lambda sensor feedback; degraded sensors can trigger lean/rich codes and affect fuel economy.
Oil Specs: Requires Vauxhall GM-LL-A-025 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall TSB-04-09-02). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2002–2008 Z16XE1 engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). No Euro 3 or Euro 5 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across all model applications (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V17234).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V17234, V17301, TSB-04-09-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall Z16XE1 was used across Vauxhall's Astra H, Zafira B, and Corsa C platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Zafira and modified accessory drive layouts in the Astra—and from 2005 the camshaft and tappet design was updated to address wear concerns, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS V17250). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('6' for Z16 series). All Z16XE1 units feature a black plastic intake manifold with '1.6 16V' badge. Critical differentiation from earlier X16XEL: Z16XE1 uses Bosch Motronic ME7.4 ECU with OBD-II port under dash; X16XEL uses Siemens Simos. Pre-2005 engines have smooth cam lobes; post-2005 units use micro-polished lobes per TSB-04-09-02.
The Z16XE1's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used in hot climates or under sustained high-load conditions. Vauxhall internal service data from 2006 indicated a notable rate of camshaft replacement before 120,000 km in affected fleets, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions failures linked to misfires from valve train degradation. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality oil accelerate wear, making oil specification and service discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2002–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-16-XE1.
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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
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