The Vauxhall A17DTS is a 1,686 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivered 96 kW (130 PS) with 320 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive low — end pull and fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Astra J, Insignia B, and Zafira Tourer, the A17DTS was designed for drivers prioritising fuel econom…
Production years 2013–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market .
The Vauxhall A17DTS is a 1,686 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2013–2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,686 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 85.8 mm | |
Power output | 96 kW (130 PS) | |
Torque | 320 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2013–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Vauxhall A17DTS was used across Vauxhall's Astra J/Insignia B platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Insignia and revised cooling ducts in the Zafira Tourer—and from 2015 the Euro 6-compliant variants adopted updated ECU calibrations and cam follower designs, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The A17DTS offers good fuel economy and torque, but pre-2015 models have a known risk of high-pressure fuel pump failure due to cam follower wear. Post-2015 revisions significantly improved reliability. Using GM dexos2 oil and adhering to service intervals greatly enhances longevity.
Top issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure (linked to cam follower wear), DPF clogging from short trips, EGR valve/cooler fouling, and VGT actuator sticking. These are documented in Vauxhall TSB-15-04-13 and DVSA emissions data.
The 1.7 CDTi 130 (A17DTS) was used in the Astra J (2013–2018), Insignia B (2013–2017), and Zafira Tourer C (2013–2018). All are transverse-mounted applications meeting Euro 5 (early) or Euro 6 (late) standards.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the A-17-DT platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Excellent for its class. In an Astra 1.7 CDTi 130, expect ~5.2 L/100km (city) and ~3.8 L/100km (highway), or about 55 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 48–58 mpg (UK) when maintained properly.
Yes. The A17DTS is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. Fortunately, the front-mounted chain is robust—no widespread failures reported if serviced correctly.
Vauxhall specifies GM dexos2 5W-30 synthetic oil. This is critical for protecting the high-pressure fuel pump cam follower and turbo bearings. Always use a dexos2-certified oil and change every 15,000 km or 12 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
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.
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