The Vauxhall Z16XEP is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2013. It features a 16‑valve DOHC layout, sequential multi‑point fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshaft. In standard form it delivers 81–85 kW (110–115 PS) and 155–158 Nm of torque, offering smooth everyday drivability with modest fuel consumption.
Fitted to the Corsa D, Astra H, and Meriva A, the Z16XEP was engineered for compact efficiency and urban responsiveness. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, allowing Euro 4 compliance across its production run, with select late builds meeting Euro 5 in specific markets.
One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in high-mileage units, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑09‑032. This issue stems from premature wear of piston rings and valve stem seals under sustained high-temperature operation. From 2010, revised piston ring tension and updated valve guide materials were introduced to mitigate oil burn.
Production years 2006–2012 meet Euro 4 standards; select 2012–2013 models may comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Vauxhall Z16XEP is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for supermini and compact hatchbacks (2006–2013). It combines sequential multi-point injection with intake-side variable valve timing to deliver smooth low-to-mid range response and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances reliability with everyday usability.
| 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 | 81–85 kW (110–115 PS) | |
| Torque | 155–158 Nm @ 4,000–4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch ME7.9.7) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2006–2012); Euro 5 in select 2012–2013 models | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Variable valve timing | Intake cam only (VVT) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response ideal for city driving but lacks low-end torque compared to turbocharged alternatives. Strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using GM dexos1 (5W-30) is essential to reduce piston ring wear and oil consumption. The front-mounted timing chain is generally robust but requires correct oil viscosity to maintain tensioner function. High-mileage units (>120,000 km) should be inspected for blue exhaust smoke or excessive oil use—symptoms linked to ring wear documented in TSB‑09‑032. Late-production engines (post-2010) feature improved ring packs and should be prioritized for long-term ownership.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall TSB‑09‑032). Meets ACEA A5/B5 but with OEM-specific additive package.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2006–2012 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567). Euro 5 compliance limited to specific 2012–2013 export variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full 115 PS output requires RON 95 petrol (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V22300).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V22150, V22151, V22152, TSB‑09‑032
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall Z16XEP was used across Vauxhall's Corsa D, Astra H, and Meriva A platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global small-car architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Astra and modified intake manifolds in the Meriva—and from 2010 the updated piston ring design per TSB‑09‑032, creating minor interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filler neck (Vauxhall TIS V22170). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Z' for Z16 series). All Z16XEP units use a Bosch ME7.9.7 ECU with a rectangular OBD2 port under the dashboard. Critical differentiation: Z16XEP is naturally aspirated with black plastic intake manifold and single cam phaser on intake side—do not confuse with turbocharged Z16LET. Post-2010 engines have revised piston part numbers; verify via production date on block casting.
The Z16XEP's primary reliability risk is elevated oil consumption in pre-2010 builds, with incidence rising significantly beyond 100,000 km. Vauxhall internal quality reports from 2011 noted a measurable uptick in warranty claims for blue smoke and low oil levels in Corsa D and Astra H units produced before mid-2010, while UK DVSA data shows no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Extended high-RPM operation and infrequent oil changes accelerate ring wear, making maintenance discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2009–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-16-XEP.
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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