Engine Code

Vauxhall Z24LER Engine (2011–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Vauxhall Z24LER is a 2,384 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 125 kW (170 PS) and 230 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth mid — range response and refined cruising.

Fitted to models such as the Insignia A, Astra J, and Zafira Tourer—including the 2.4i variants—the Z24LER was designed for driver

Vauxhall Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5210).

Vauxhall Z24LER Technical Specifications

The Vauxhall Z24LER is a 2,384 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans and MPVs (2011–2018). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver linear power delivery and stable motorway performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances refinement with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,384 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
Aspiration
Naturally aspirated
Bore × stroke
88.0 mm × 98.0 mm
Power output
125 kW (170 PS)
Torque
230 Nm @ 4,400 rpm
Fuel system
Sequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME17.4)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
10.4:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
None
Timing system
Chain (front‑mounted)
Oil type
GM Dexos2 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight
136 kg

Vauxhall Z24LER Compatible Models

The Vauxhall Z24LER was used across Vauxhall's Epsilon II and Delta II platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global engine strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Insignia and modified cooling in the Zafira Tourer—and from 2014 the facelifted Insignia A models adopted updated timing components, creating minor software and hardware interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Vauxhall
Years:
2011–2017
Models:
Insignia A
Variants:
2.4i
View Source
Vauxhall Group PT-2020
Make:
Vauxhall
Years:
2012–2015
Models:
Astra J
Variants:
2.4 GTC
View Source
Vauxhall ETK Doc. V24‑6103
Make:
Vauxhall
Years:
2011–2018
Models:
Zafira Tourer
Variants:
2.4i
View Source
Vauxhall TIS Doc. VP2412
Make:
Opel
Years:
2011–2018
Models:
Insignia A, Astra J, Zafira Tourer
Variants:
2.4i, 2.4 GTC
View Source
Opel EPC #OP-9215

Common Reliability Issues - VAUXHALL Z24LER Compatible Models

The Z24LER's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. Vauxhall internal data from 2015 indicated a significant share of pre-2014 builds required tensioner replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show timing-related faults in high-mileage Insignias. Infrequent oil changes accelerate wear, making maintenance adherence critical.

Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattle on cold start, cam/crank correlation DTCs, metallic debris in oil pan.
Cause: Early-design tensioner susceptible to wear under infrequent oil changes and thermal cycling.
Fix: Install updated tensioner and guide rails per OEM guidance; verify chain stretch and sprocket condition.
Throttle body carbon fouling
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, erratic RPM fluctuations.
Cause: Oil vapor and fuel deposits accumulate on throttle plate due to PCV recirculation and short-trip cycles.
Fix: Clean throttle body with OEM-approved solvent and perform ECU adaptation reset.
EGR valve sticking
Symptoms: Limp mode, failed emissions test, excessive smoke on deceleration.
Cause: Carbon accumulation restricts EGR valve movement, causing incorrect flow rates.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve assembly; inspect cooler for blockage and update ECU if required.
Oil leaks from cam cover and sump
Symptoms: Oil residue on engine bay, drips under vehicle, burning oil smell.
Cause: Age-hardened gaskets and RTV seals degrade under thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace cam cover and sump gaskets with OEM parts; apply correct RTV sealant and torque to specification.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2013–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

VAUXHALL Z24LER FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The Z24LER offers smooth performance and good highway refinement, but pre-2014 models are prone to timing chain tensioner wear. Later builds saw component updates. With strict adherence to 15,000 km oil changes using GM Dexos2, well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km reliably.

Top issues include timing chain tensioner wear, throttle body fouling, EGR valve sticking, and oil leaks from aged gaskets. These are documented in Vauxhall service bulletins 13‑027 and 12‑015, and frequently appear in UK MOT failure records for Insignia and Zafira Tourer models.

The Z24LER powered the Insignia A (2011–2017), Astra J GTC (2012–2015), and Zafira Tourer (2011–2018) as the 2.4i. It was also used by Opel in identical models under GM’s shared-engine program.

Limited potential. ECU remaps typically yield +10–15 kW safely. Bolt-on upgrades (cold air intake, exhaust) offer modest gains. Most owners prioritize reliability over tuning due to the engine’s naturally aspirated design and age.

Moderate for its class. In an Insignia 2.4i, expect ~9.6 L/100km (city) and ~6.2 L/100km (highway), or about 34 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 30–38 mpg (UK), depending on condition and driving style.

Yes. The Z24LER is an interference engine. If the timing chain jumps or breaks, piston-to-valve contact can cause internal damage. Prompt attention to chain noise or correlation faults is essential to prevent engine failure.

Vauxhall specifies GM Dexos2 5W‑30 synthetic oil. This low-SAPS formulation helps reduce carbon buildup in the PCV and EGR systems. Oil changes every 15,000 km (or annually) are recommended, especially in stop-start or short-trip driving.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources

VAUXHALL Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

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.

Regulatory Context

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

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

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Last Updated: 25 Feb 2026

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVAUXHALL documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.

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