Z22SE

DDC

I am currently driving a modified Vauxhall Astra 1.6 16v which is up for sale. I have been looking at a Vectra as I don't want to leave Vauxhall but want something different. I have seen a few 2.2's for sale in my area which interest me. However I was getting my brake pads changed at Vauxhall last week and speaking to one of the mechanics. He told me I should watch with the 2.2 engine as they are bad for the timing chain going. I was looking at a few Y, 51, 02 reg Vectra. Can anybody gives me any information on this subject? I would probably be buying the car around 40/50k miles, so am I better getting the timing chain changed when I buy?

Advise please! 😃

dodger

Have a look here https://z22se.co.uk/viewforum.php?f=22 there is plenty to read on the subject and hopefully put your mind at ease.

vocky

a couple of members on here are thinking of selling their vectra's, both have had the timing chain replaced, so hopefully you can find one which has had the work done 🙂

depends whereabouts you are in the country, maybe another member can check your new car before you buy 🙂

DDC

Read through the forum and its seems to be quite common the timing chain snaps. Leaves my mind at unrest, do you reckon I would be better getting the 1.8 SRI Vectra?

vocky

it's no different than changing the cambelt, except the new cam chain will last at least 100,000 miles 🙂

once done, you can forget about it 😃

whereas the cam belt will need doing again at 40k :roll:

plus the 2.2 is probably the best engine vauxhall fitted to the vecB, that's what the car mags claimed 🙂

DDC

Just to clarify, when the timing chain is replaced the oil jet will be replaced too. How much does it cost including parts to have this replaced? So other than the timing chain, are there any other problems with the 2.2 engine.

How many miles are you getting to a tank, whats the mpg like etc?

vocky

the timing chain comes as a complete kit, every part is replaced including the guides, tensioner, chain, cogs and the oil jet - even the bolts are new :lol:

mpg depends on driving conditions as usual, around town @ 25 mpg, on a run @ 40 mpg dunno..

the only other thing to keep an eye on is the oil level, the z22se doesn't like to be run low (off the dipstick) but that's basic maintenance on any car 🙂

DDC

Thanks for the information. Suppose its kinda puts my mind at rest. With every car I have bought I have changed the timing belt so in this case would change the timing chain.

vocky

same as me, as soon as I get a car the timing belt gets replaced, better safe than sorry 🙂

at least with the chain you won't have to change it again 🙂