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 drivers seeking a balance of relaxed highway performance and everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three‑way catalytic converter, allowing Euro 5 compliance across all production years.

One documented concern is timing chain tensioner wear in high-mileage applications, which can lead to chain slack and misalignment. This issue is referenced in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 13‑027, which notes increased wear in tensioners subjected to extended oil change intervals. From 2014, revised tensioner materials and guide rails were introduced to improve durability in later Insignia builds.

Vauxhall Engine
Compliance Note:

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

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
Displacement2,384 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke88.0 mm × 98.0 mm
Power output125 kW (170 PS)
Torque230 Nm @ 4,400 rpm
Fuel systemSequential multi‑point injection (Bosch ME17.4)
Emissions standardEuro 5
Compression ratio10.4:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain (front‑mounted)
Oil typeGM Dexos2 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight136 kg
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for mixed driving but requires consistent oil changes every 15,000 km to protect the front-mounted timing chain. GM Dexos2 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its low SAPS formulation, which reduces EGR and catalyst fouling. Extended service intervals accelerate tensioner wear—per Vauxhall SIB 13 027—and may cause cam/crank correlation faults. Bosch ME17.4 ECUs benefit from periodic throttle body cleaning. EGR systems should be inspected for coking, which can trigger limp mode in high-mileage units.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos2 (5W-30) specification (Vauxhall SIB 12 015). Meets ACEA C3 but includes OEM-specific shear stability.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2011–2018 Z24LER models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5210). No Euro 6 variants were produced.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Power output assumes RON 95 petrol (Vauxhall TIS Doc. VP2425).

Primary Sources

Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs VP2412, VP2418, SIB 13 027

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5210)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

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
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (Vauxhall TIS VP2412). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Z' for Z24 series). All Z24LER units feature a black plastic valve cover with '2.4' branding. Critical differentiation from turbocharged LWR: Z24LER has no turbocharger or intercooler piping and uses Bosch ME17.4 ECU. Bosch ECU is mounted on the firewall. Service parts for timing system require production date verification—units before 06/2014 use early-design tensioners per Vauxhall SIB 13 027.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Vauxhall TIS Doc. VP2412

Location:

Stamped on front timing cover adjacent to oil filter housing (Vauxhall TIS VP2412).

Visual Cues:

  • Black valve cover with '2.4' label
  • No turbocharger or intercooler piping
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Vauxhall SIB 13 027

Timing System:

2014+ Insignia models use updated tensioner and guide rails; pre-2014 kits are not directly interchangeable.

E C U Calibration:

ECU software differs between Astra GTC and Insignia; hardware swaps require matching calibration.
Timing Chain Maintenance

Issue:

Early-design tensioners prone to wear under extended oil change intervals, leading to chain slack.

Evidence:

Vauxhall SIB 13 027

Recommendation:

Replace with updated tensioner and guides per SIB 13 027 during major service or at first sign of rattle.

Common Reliability Issues - VAUXHALL Z24LER

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.

Frequently Asked Questions about VAUXHALL Z24LER

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z24LER.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Primary Sources

VAUXHALL Official Site

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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.

Official Documentation

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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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VCA Certification Portal

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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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Vauxhall Z24LER Engine Guide 2025 | Specs, Issues, Models