The Vauxhall Z28NEL is a 2,792 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2012. It features sequential multi‑point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 24‑valve configuration. In standard form it delivered 152 kW (207 PS) and 266 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth, linear power delivery and refined highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Vectra C, Signum, and Omega B, the Z28NEL was designed for executive‑level performance with low vibration and strong mid‑range response. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 4 compliance across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes on early builds, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑06‑11‑08. This issue is often linked to infrequent oil changes or use of non‑specification oil. The Z28NEL was succeeded by the updated Z30XE with increased displacement and variable valve timing.
Production years 2006–2012 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Vauxhall Z28NEL is a 2,792 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and estates (2006–2012). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver smooth, vibration‑free performance and predictable throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances refinement with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,792 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 152 kW (207 PS) | |
| Torque | 266 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME7.8) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, dual chains) | |
| Oil type | GM‑LL‑A‑001 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The DOHC V6 layout provides inherent smoothness and strong mid-range torque but demands adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent camshaft lobe wear. GM‑LL‑A‑001 (10W‑40) oil is critical for maintaining hydraulic tappet function and cam lubrication. Extended service intervals or incorrect oil viscosity accelerate wear on the exhaust cam, especially under high‑load conditions. The dual front‑mounted timing chains are generally robust but require inspection if valvetrain noise appears. The Bosch ME7.8 ECU supports OBD‑II diagnostics, enabling precise fault tracing for emissions or drivability issues.
Oil Specs: Requires GM‑LL‑A‑001 (10W‑40) specification (Vauxhall TSB 06‑11‑08). Equivalent to ACEA A3/B3.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2006–2012 Z28NEL models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 5 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on dynamometer per Vauxhall PT‑2006.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V‑2801, V‑2805, TSB 06‑11‑08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall Z28NEL was used across Vauxhall's Vectra C, Signum, and Omega B platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global V6 petrol strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Signum and modified exhaust manifolds in the Vectra Estate—creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Vauxhall TIS V‑2801). The 7th VIN digit for Vauxhall models is 'Z' for the Z28NEL engine family. Visual identification: black alloy valve covers with '2.8 V6' badge; Bosch ME7.8 ECU mounted in the engine bay. Critical differentiation from later Z30XE: Z28NEL lacks variable valve timing and uses conventional camshafts. Service parts are not interchangeable between Z28NEL and Z30XE due to camshaft and ECU differences.
The Z28NEL's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non‑specification oil or extended service intervals. Vauxhall internal data from 2008 indicated up to 11% of high‑mileage engines required cam replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records show catalytic converter faults as the second-most common emissions issue in this generation. Infrequent oil changes and high‑load driving accelerate wear, making oil quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2006–2009) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-28-NEL.
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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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