Used Opel Z16XER 1.6 Engine for Sale

The story of this engine

The Z16XER is the third-generation version of Opel's Family 1 1.6. Its main upgrade over the earlier Z16XEP is variable cam phasing on both the inlet and exhaust camshafts, together with a 10.8:1 compression ratio. That lifted output to 85 kW and 155 Nm, and it replaced the TwinPort engine in the Astra H and the Zafira B from around 2006.

Our listing describes it as a Corsa 1.6, but published Opel data ties the Z16XER to the Astra H and Zafira B, so we confirm your vehicle against the code before dispatch. In South Africa, the Astra H 1.6 and the seven-seat Zafira are the cars most likely to need one.

The best-known weak points on this engine are the cam phaser control solenoids and the phasers themselves, which can rattle or set fault codes when oil changes have been stretched. Check the thermostat housing for leaks, look at the oil cooler seals and fit a new cambelt kit with water pump at fitment. A smooth idle with no ticking from the front of the head is what you want to hear.

Workshops like the Z16XER because it is a well understood Opel engine with plenty of parts support, and because it shares its basic dimensions with other Family 1 1.6 units they have worked on for years.

Compatible vehicles in South Africa

Model	Years	SA variant names
Opel Astra H	2006 to 2014	1.6 16V VVT petrol
Opel Zafira B	2008 to 2011	1.6 petrol, 115 PS

Fitment varies with model year, sensors and mounts. Send your VIN and we will confirm before you pay.

What's included and what's not

On the pallet

Long block / engine as shown in photos
Engine code verified before dispatch
Ancillaries only where photos show them (confirm on WhatsApp)

Not included

Gearbox, clutch and flywheel
ECU and wiring harness
Fluids, filters and timing kit
Fitment labour

Warranty, inspection and nationwide delivery

Warranty

3-month, unlimited-kilometre warranty on internal engine components.
7-day warranty on the turbocharger, where fitted.
Fitment by an RMI-registered mechanic, with new oil, filters, coolant and a new timing belt on belt-driven engines.

Full warranty terms

Inspection

Checked against the Z16XER code before it is listed.
Compression tested and bench-checked where it applies.
Photos and video of the unit on request.

Delivery

Crated and dispatched from Potchefstroom to all nine provinces.
Cross-border to Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Lesotho, Eswatini and Malawi.
Free delivery anywhere in South Africa on orders of R50,000 and above (incl. VAT). Smaller orders and cross-border deliveries are quoted to your town before you pay.

Shipping details

FAQs

Will this Z16XER fit a Corsa?

Published data links the Z16XER to the Astra H and Zafira B. Send your VIN and engine code photo and we will confirm whether it suits your car.

What is included?

The engine as pictured. Gearbox, clutch, ECU, harness, fluids and timing kit are not included unless confirmed in writing.

What warranty applies?

3 months on internal engine components, provided an RMI-registered workshop fits it with new oil, filters and coolant.

Do you deliver outside South Africa?

Yes, to Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Lesotho, Eswatini and Malawi.

Why does the Z16XER rattle on start-up?

A brief rattle often points to the cam phasers or their solenoids, usually linked to oil condition. Check them and use the correct oil grade when the engine is fitted.