The Vauxhall Z22YH is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2003 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) at 5,600 rpm with 210 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering smooth power delivery suitable for mid‑size sedans and estates.
Fitted to models such as the Vectra C and Signum, the Z22YH was engineered for refined cruising and linear throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic engine management with a three‑way catalytic converter and oxygen sensors, allowing adherence to Euro 4 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes, particularly in high‑mileage or infrequently serviced units. This issue, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑04‑08‑19, stems from marginal oil flow to the camshaft under sustained high‑load conditions. From 2006 onward, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated tappet designs were introduced to mitigate this risk.
All production years 2003–2008 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2003/0675).
The Vauxhall Z22YH is a 2,198 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans and estates (2003–2008). It combines DOHC 16‑valve architecture with sequential multi‑point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances drivability with moderate fuel consumption.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 108 kW (147 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 10W‑40 or 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The DOHC layout provides good high‑rpm breathing but requires diligent oil maintenance to prevent cam lobe wear, especially under sustained load. Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 oil (10W‑40 or 5W‑40) is critical due to its high‑temperature detergency profile. Short‑trip driving without periodic extended runs accelerates wear; owners should adhere to 10,000 km or 12‑month oil intervals. The Bosch Motronic system demands clean fuel meeting EN 228 standards. Revised camshafts from 2006 (per TSB 04‑08‑19) improve lobe durability in high‑mileage applications.
Oil Specs: Requires Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 specification (Vauxhall TSB 04‑08‑19). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all Z22YH production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2003/0675). No Euro 3 or Euro 5 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output consistent across all applications (Vauxhall TIS Doc. VTIS‑A3208).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VTIS‑A3208, VTIS‑A3215
Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB 04‑08‑19
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2003/0675)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall Z22YH was used across Vauxhall's Vectra C and Signum platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Signum and unique exhaust manifolds in the Vectra Estate—and from 2006 the facelifted Vectra C models retained the same engine but with updated camshaft metallurgy, creating minor internal differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front left side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS VTIS‑A3208). The 8th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('Y' for Z22YH). Pre-2006 models use silver cam covers with black intake manifolds; post-2006 Vectra C/Signum models feature black cam covers and updated airbox routing. Critical differentiation from Y22XE: Z22YH is DOHC 16-valve; Y22XE is SOHC 8-valve. ECU part numbers differ—Z22YH uses Bosch 0 261 206 XXX series. Service parts for camshafts changed in 2006 per TSB 04‑08‑19.
The Z22YH's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent motorway driving or towing. Vauxhall internal quality data from 2007 indicated a measurable increase in camshaft replacements in engines exceeding 130,000 km without oil changes at recommended intervals, while UK DVSA MOT records show elevated emissions failures in Vectra/Signum 2.2i models with neglected maintenance. Sustained high‑load operation and infrequent oil changes exacerbate wear, making oil specification and service interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2004–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-22-YH.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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