The Vauxhall Z22XE is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2008. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 108 kW (147 PS) and 205 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth highway cruising and responsive urban performance.
Fitted to models such as the Vectra B, Signum, and Zafira A—including the 2.2i 16V variants—the Z22XE was designed for drivers seeking a balance of refinement, mid-range torque, and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 3 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is oil sludge accumulation in engines subjected to frequent short trips or extended service intervals. This issue is referenced in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 04‑019, which notes restricted oil galleries and potential bearing wear in affected units. From 2005, revised PCV systems and updated oil specifications were introduced to mitigate the problem in later Vectra B builds.
All production years 2002–2008 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2651).
The Vauxhall Z22XE is a 2,198 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans and MPVs (2002–2008). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver linear power delivery and stable motorway performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritizes reliability and serviceability over cutting‑edge efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 108 kW (147 PS) | |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.6) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos2 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for mixed driving but requires consistent oil changes every 10,000 km to prevent sludge accumulation. GM Dexos2 (5W-30) oil is recommended to maintain crankcase cleanliness and reduce deposit formation. Short-trip driving accelerates oil oxidation—per Vauxhall SIB 04 019—and may cause oil starvation in main bearings. Bosch ME7.6 ECUs are robust but benefit from periodic throttle body cleaning. EGR systems should be inspected for coking, which can trigger emissions-related faults in high-mileage units.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos2 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall SIB 04 019). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4 but includes OEM-specific detergent package.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2002–2008 Z22XE models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2651). No Euro 4 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output assumes RON 95 petrol (Vauxhall TIS Doc. VP2218).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VP2205, VP2212, SIB 04 019
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2651)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall Z22XE was used across Vauxhall's Epsilon platform with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global engine strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Signum and modified cooling in the Zafira A—and from 2005 the facelifted Vectra B models adopted updated PCV systems, creating minor service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (Vauxhall TIS VP2205). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Z' for Z22 series). All Z22XE units feature a black plastic valve cover with '2.2 16V' branding. Critical differentiation from Z20DMH: Z22XE has larger displacement (2,198 cc vs. 1,998 cc) and longer stroke. Bosch ME7.6 ECU is mounted on the firewall. Service parts for PCV require production date verification—units before 01/2005 use different breather hoses per Vauxhall SIB 04 019.
The Z22XE's primary reliability risk is oil sludge accumulation, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips or with extended service intervals. Vauxhall internal data from 2005 indicated a significant share of pre-2005 builds required engine cleaning or bearing replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show oil-related failures in high-mileage Vectra Bs. Infrequent oil changes accelerate deposit formation, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2004–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-22-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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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