The Vauxhall Z19DT is a 1,910 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2012. It features a 16‑valve DOHC layout, common‑rail direct injection, and a single variable‑geometry turbocharger (VGT). In standard form it delivers 96–103 kW (130–140 PS) and 300–320 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end pull ideal for mixed and motorway driving.
Fitted to the Astra H, Zafira B, and Vectra C, the Z19DT was engineered for mid-size efficiency with responsive performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing Euro 4 compliance across its production run, with select late builds meeting Euro 5 in specific markets.
One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑08‑076. This issue stems from marginal lubrication under high thermal loads and can lead to erratic rail pressure and limp‑mode activation. From 2009, revised HPFP components and updated calibration were introduced to mitigate premature wear.
Production years 2005–2008 meet Euro 4 standards; 2009–2012 models may comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Vauxhall Z19DT is a 1,910 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2005–2012). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver robust low-rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and select Euro 5) emissions standards, it balances performance with diesel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,910 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 90.4 mm | |
| Power output | 96–103 kW (130–140 PS) | |
| Torque | 300–320 Nm @ 2,000–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3.4 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2005–2008); Euro 5 in select 2009–2012 models | |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos2 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong mid-range torque ideal for motorway overtaking but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using GM dexos2 (5W-30) to protect the Bosch CP3.4 high-pressure fuel pump and turbo bearings. The HPFP is sensitive to fuel lubricity—only ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) should be used to avoid premature wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway driving to enable passive regeneration; frequent short trips increase clogging risk. Post-2009 models feature updated HPFP internals per TSB‑08‑076, reducing failure rates significantly.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos2 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall TSB‑08‑076). Meets ACEA C3 but with OEM-specific additive package.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2005–2008 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456). Euro 5 compliance limited to specific 2009–2012 export variants.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full 140 PS output requires EN 590-compliant diesel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V21800).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V21500, V21501, V21502, TSB‑08‑076
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall Z19DT was used across Vauxhall's Astra H, Zafira B, and Vectra C platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global mid-size architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced subframes in the Vectra and revised cooling in the Zafira—and from 2009 the Euro 5 update introduced new exhaust aftertreatment hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Vauxhall TIS V21520). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Z' for Z19 series). Pre-2009 models use a Bosch EDC16C39 ECU with round OBD port; Euro 5 variants (2009+) use EDC17C19 and rectangular diagnostic connector. Critical differentiation: Z19DT is a 4-cylinder diesel with black valve cover and single turbo—do not confuse with 2.0L Y20DT. HPFP part numbers differ pre/post TSB‑08‑076—verify via production date code on pump housing.
The Z19DT's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban use. Vauxhall internal data from 2010 indicated a notable share of pre-2009 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased DPF-related MOT failures in short-trip-driven examples. Extended idling and poor fuel quality accelerate pump and aftertreatment degradation, making fuel specification and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2008–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-19-DT.
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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