The Vauxhall Z22YH is a 2,198 cc, V6 turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It features a 24‑valve DOHC layout, sequential multi‑point fuel injection, and a single turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler. In standard form it delivers 154–177 kW (210–240 PS) and 320–350 Nm of torque, offering strong performance with refined mid-range response.
Fitted to the Vectra C GSi and Signum GSi, the Z22YH was engineered for high-performance driving while maintaining executive-level comfort. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, close-coupled lambda sensors, and precise engine management, allowing Euro 4 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger bearing wear, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑07‑034. This issue stems from marginal oil flow during high-thermal-load operation and can lead to boost loss and oil contamination. From 2006, revised turbo oil feed restrictors and updated oil drain lines were introduced to improve bearing longevity.
All production years (2003–2008) meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2789).
The Vauxhall Z22YH is a 2,198 cc V6 turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and estates (2003–2008). It combines sequential multi-point injection with a single turbocharger and intercooler to deliver strong low-to-mid range torque and high-rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances sporty dynamics with executive refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 154–177 kW (210–240 PS) | |
| Torque | 320–350 Nm @ 2,000–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch ME7.6.3) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (Garrett GT2560R) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, dual-stage) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 172 kg |
The turbocharged V6 layout provides strong, linear power ideal for spirited driving but demands strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using GM dexos1 (5W-40) to protect turbo bearings and timing components. Extended idling after hard driving should be avoided to prevent oil coking in the turbo center housing. Post-2006 engines feature revised oil feed restrictors per TSB‑07‑034, reducing turbo bearing wear significantly. RON 98 petrol is recommended for sustained high-load operation to prevent knock and maintain performance.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 (5W-40) specification (Vauxhall TSB‑07‑034). Meets ACEA A3/B4 with OEM-specific additive package.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2003–2008) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full 240 PS output requires RON 98 petrol (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V20700).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V20500, V20501, V20502, TSB‑07‑034
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall Z22YH was used across Vauxhall's Vectra C and Signum GSi platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global performance architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced subframes in the Vectra estate and upgraded cooling in the Signum—and from 2006 the turbo oil system update per TSB‑07‑034, creating minor interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Vauxhall TIS V20510). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Z' for Z22 series). All Z22YH units use a Bosch ME7.6.3 ECU with rectangular OBD2 port under the dashboard. Critical differentiation: Z22YH is a turbocharged V6 with silver valve covers—do not confuse with naturally aspirated Z32SE. Turbo oil feed restrictor part numbers differ pre/post TSB‑07‑034—verify via production date code on turbo housing.
The Z22YH's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or track-driven vehicles. Vauxhall internal data from 2008 indicated a notable share of pre-2006 engines requiring turbo replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Extended high-load operation without proper cooldown and poor oil quality accelerate turbo degradation, making maintenance discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2007–2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z22YH.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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
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