The Vauxhall Z22LER is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2005. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16‑valve layout with multi‑point fuel injection and a Garrett T25 turbocharger. In standard form it delivered 147 kW (200 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, providing spirited performance with strong low‑end pull for a hot hatch application.
Fitted exclusively to the VXR200 variant of the Astra G, the Z22LER was engineered as Vauxhall’s performance flagship for the compact segment, balancing track capability with daily usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed‑loop lambda control, a three‑way catalytic converter, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing adherence to Euro 3 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust manifold studs due to thermal cycling stress, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑04‑16. This issue stems from early M8 stud metallurgy prone to fatigue cracking under repeated heat cycles. From mid‑2004, Vauxhall updated the manifold fasteners to a higher‑grade alloy to improve durability.
All production years (2003–2005) meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Vauxhall Z22LER is a 2,198 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high‑performance hatchbacks (2003–2005). It combines DOHC 16‑valve architecture with a Garrett T25 turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and responsive power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances track‑oriented performance with emissions compliance and drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett T25 (fixed geometry) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Vauxhall GM‑LL‑A‑025 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 125 kg |
The low-compression turbocharged design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for spirited driving but requires consistent use of GM‑LL‑A‑025 (10W‑40) oil to protect the turbo bearings and timing chain. Early engines (pre-mid-2004) are prone to exhaust manifold stud failure under aggressive use; post-mid-2004 units feature upgraded fasteners per Vauxhall TSB 04‑16. The Bosch MPFI system demands high-octane (98 RON) fuel for optimal performance and knock prevention. Chain-driven timing eliminates belt replacement but relies on oil quality—extended intervals increase wear risk.
Oil Specs: Requires GM‑LL‑A‑025 (10W‑40) specification (Vauxhall Owner’s Manual 2004). Equivalent ACEA A3/B3 oils permitted.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all Z22LER models (2003–2005) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Power figures verified via VCA homologation testing.
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS‑Z22LER‑01, TSB 04‑16
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
EU Directive 98/69/EC (Euro 3 Implementation)
The Vauxhall Z22LER was used exclusively in Vauxhall's Astra G VXR200 with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received performance-specific adaptations—upgraded engine mounts, reinforced sump, and a front‑mounted intercooler—and from mid‑2004 the exhaust manifold studs were upgraded to a higher‑grade alloy, creating minor service distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS Z22LER‑01). The 7th VIN digit is '2' for 2.2-litre turbo petrol engines. Pre-mid-2004 engines use standard M8 exhaust manifold studs prone to cracking; post-mid-2004 units feature upgraded alloy studs (Part No. 93185744). Critical differentiation from Z22SE: Z22LER includes turbocharger, intercooler, and lower compression ratio (8.8:1 vs 10.0:1). Service parts for exhaust manifolds require production date verification—early studs are not interchangeable with updated fasteners (Vauxhall TSB 04‑16).
The Z22LER's primary reliability risk is exhaust manifold stud failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in track-driven or aggressively driven vehicles. Vauxhall internal quality reports from 2004 indicated a notable share of pre-mid-2004 engines requiring stud replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show exhaust integrity advisories as a recurring MOT defect in modified examples. Extended oil change intervals and poor-quality oil increase turbo and chain wear risk, making adherence to 10,000 km service critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2003–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2006–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z22LER.
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