Encyclopedia of engines: Opel 1.8 Ecotec (gasoline)

The design of this engine dates back to the early 90s, so it is already 30 years old. However, in this article we will consider its latest version with variable valve timing, prepared for 2005 and produced until 2014. It set in motion not only Opel cars.

The latest incarnation of the 1.8 Ecotec engine lasted 9 years on the market, despite the already rather old naturally aspirated design with indirect injection. However, in 2005 it underwent a thorough technical modernization, which gave it an almost completely new look. It even met the Euro 5 standard (designation A18XER). It was available with 140 hp, rarely 120 hp. (for example, Zafira B Family - XEL designation). It got under the hood, including Opel Astra H, Vectra C or Insignia A, but also adapted for Chevrolet Cruze and Orlando or Alfa Romeo 159 where it was the base version of this model, the only one with indirect injection.

Despite the fact that there are malfunctions, sometimes even unpleasant on the part of electricians (sensors, controller, thermostat), the overall design should be evaluated very well. Is relatively simple and cheap to repairmileage resistant, although not necessarily neglected. For example, the timing drive should be changed every 90 thousand. km, and oil, although the manufacturer recommends every 30 thousand km, it is advisable to change twice as often. Timely and correct oil change (5W-30 or 5W40) prevents costly malfunctions of variable valve timing mechanisms. It is often the users flooding a semi-synthetic engine that make timing replacement twice as expensive as it should be – a variable-phase wheel can cost up to PLN 800.

Unfortunately, the engine has one significant operational defect - valve adjustment plates. This type of regulation does not contribute to saving on LPG, and in many cars this is a fairly fuel-intensive engine, because. he needs at least 4000 rpm for a dynamic ride, and there may also be a little lack of power, for example, in a heavy Insignia or Alfa Romeo 159. Driving on gas is not a problem, but you need to watch the valve clearance, and in case of adjustment you will have to adjust - quite expensive and not every mechanic will do it. A good solution is to install a high-end gas system with head lubrication and ride without excessive heat loads.

The big advantage of the engine is its interaction with 5-speed reliable transmissionunlike the rather weak 6-speed M32. Unfortunately, this has a negative effect on driving comfort, there is no higher gear, for example on the highway. In some models, it was combined with the problematic Easytronic automatic transmission. Another advantage of the engine is excellent access to spare parts, which - even as original ones - are not too expensive (with the exception of some, such as KZFR). A well-maintained 1.8 Ecotec unit will last for many years.

Advantages of the 1.8 Ecotec engine: