Vauxhall S9W-700 Engine (2010–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Vauxhall S9W 700 is a 2,993 cc, V6 turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018 under licence from Renault. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and twin variable geometry turbochargers (VGT) with intercooler. In standard form it delivered 173 kW (235 PS) at 3,800 rpm and 450 Nm of torque at 1,800 rpm, providing refined high — output performance for executive MPVs and crossovers.

Fitted to models such as the Zafira Tourer and Insignia, the S9W 700…

Vauxhall Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards .

Vauxhall S9W-700 Technical Specifications

The Vauxhall S9W 700 is a 2,993 cc V6 turbo‑diesel engine engineered for executive MPVs and large crossovers (2010–2018). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with twin variable geometry turbochargers to deliver smooth, high-torque performance with low vibration. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances premium drivability with operational efficiency.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
2,993 cc
Fuel type
Diesel
Configuration
V6, DOHC, 24‑valve
Aspiration
Twin-turbocharged (VGT)
Bore × stroke
84.0 mm × 90.0 mm
Power output
173 kW (235 PS) @ 3,800 rpm
Torque
450 Nm @ 1,800 rpm
Fuel system
Bosch CP4.2 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 5
Compression ratio
15.8:1
Cooling system
Water‑cooled
Turbocharger
Twin variable geometry turbos (Garrett VNT17)
Timing system
Chain (maintenance-free design)
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
210 kg

Vauxhall S9W-700 Compatible Models

The Vauxhall S9W 700 was used across Vauxhall's Zafira Tourer and Insignia platforms with transverse mounting and licensed from Renault. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Insignia for NVH control and compact accessory layout in the Zafira Tourer—and from 2014 the high-pressure pump drive was upgraded to address coupling failures, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Vauxhall
Years:
2011–2018
Models:
Zafira Tourer
Variants:
2.0 BiTurbo CDTI (3.0L V6)
View Source
Vauxhall Group PT-2019
Make:
Vauxhall
Years:
2010–2017
Models:
Insignia
Variants:
3.0 CDTI V6
View Source
Vauxhall TIS Doc. V10‑3701

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Common Reliability Issues - VAUXHALL S9W-700 Compatible Models

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.

High-pressure fuel pump drive failure
Symptoms: Sudden engine stalling, no restart, stored P0087/P0088 codes, fuel rail pressure faults.
Cause: Material fatigue in the pump drive flange coupling under sustained high-load conditions and thermal cycling.
Fix: Replace high-pressure pump with latest OEM-specified unit including revised drive coupling; inspect fuel filter and verify EN 590 compliance.
EGR cooler leakage
Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke, rough idle, stored P0401 code.
Cause: Thermal stress cracking in EGR cooler core due to high exhaust temperatures and thermal shock from cold coolant.
Fix: Replace EGR cooler and valve assembly; flush coolant system and inspect for diesel contamination.
Turbocharger actuator failure
Symptoms: Loss of boost on one bank, limp mode, stored P2262/P2263 codes.
Cause: Carbon buildup and heat cycling causing VGT vane linkage to bind or actuator motor failure on one turbo.
Fix: Replace affected turbocharger or actuator with latest OEM-specified unit; perform ECU adaptation and boost balance test.
Oil leaks from rear main seal
Symptoms: Oil accumulation on transmission bellhousing, drips on undertray, burning oil smell.
Cause: Age-hardened rear main seal exacerbated by high engine temperatures and crankcase pressure from CCV system wear.
Fix: Replace rear main seal with OEM part; inspect and clean crankcase ventilation system to reduce pressure.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

VAUXHALL S9W-700 FAQ Common Questions Answered

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

The S9W 700 offers refined V6 diesel performance but requires disciplined maintenance. Its chain-driven valvetrain avoids timing belt costs, but the high-pressure pump drive is prone to fatigue under sustained load. Using ACEA B4 oil and servicing every 15,000 km or annually helps prevent most issues. Post-2014 revisions improved pump drive longevity.

Top issues include high-pressure fuel pump drive failure, EGR cooler leaks, turbo actuator faults, and rear main seal leaks. These are well-documented in Vauxhall service bulletins, especially TIS-15-04-16. Most are preventable with quality diesel, correct oil, and regular servicing.

It was used in the Zafira Tourer (2011–2018) and Insignia (2010–2017), both with 235 PS output. This is a licensed Renault S9W variant. All variants meet Euro 5 emissions standards per VCA approval.

Modest gains are possible via ECU remap (+15–20 kW), but the CP4.2 pump and twin-VGT system limit potential. Over-tuning risks premature pump or turbo failure. Most owners prioritise reliability over tuning due to the engine’s executive orientation.

In an Insignia 3.0 CDTI, typical consumption is ~8.5 L/100km (city) and ~6.2 L/100km (highway), or about 36 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures range 32–40 mpg (UK) depending on load and driving style.

Yes. The S9W 700 is an interference engine. However, it uses a durable timing chain with no scheduled replacement. Chain failure is rare, but if it occurs, valve-to-piston contact can cause major damage.

Vauxhall specifies ACEA B4 (SAE 5W‑30) diesel-rated oil. This is critical for protecting the Bosch CP4.2 high-pressure pump. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months, especially in severe service.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

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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

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Type-approval guidance and documentation.

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