The 3.2-liter Opel Z32SE or LU1 engine was produced from 2006 to 2011 and was installed on the popular Antara crossover or almost completely similar to the Chevrolet Captiva. Many confuse this motor with the LA3 power unit, which was installed on the Vectra or Signum models.
Z family: Z20LET, Z22SE, Z22YH, Z24SED, Z28NET, Z32SE.
Specifications
| Production years | 2006-2011 |
| Displacement, cc | 3195 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 227 |
| Torque output, Nm | 297 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 89 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 85.6 |
| Compression ratio | 10.3 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | three chains |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 7.4 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Opel Antara 2009) — city — highway — combined |
16.4 8.9 11.6 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 190 |
The engine was installed on:
- Opel Antara A (L07) in 2006 – 2010;
- Chevrolet Captiva C100 in 2006 – 2011.
Disadvantages of the Z32SE engine
- This motor does not like frost and not only starts poorly in winter, but also freezes on the go.
- But the main problems of the engine are associated with the low resource of the timing chain mechanism.
- The chain can stretch already on a run of 50,000 km, and the cost of replacement is not encouraging.
- The engine is afraid of overheating, when driving with a clogged radiator, rings quickly lie.
- The remaining breakdowns of the power unit are usually associated with oil leaks and ECU glitches.
Frequently asked questions about the Opel Z32SE
How much power does the Opel Z32SE make?
The Opel Z32SE develops 227 hp and 297 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Opel Z32SE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 7.4 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Opel Z32SE have a timing belt or chain?
Timing drive of the Opel Z32SE: three chains.
Is the Opel Z32SE turbocharged?
No, the Opel Z32SE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Opel Z32SE need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Opel Z32SE has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Opel Z32SE last?
The typical lifespan of the Opel Z32SE is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Opel Z32SE?
Opel Antara 2009: city 16.4, highway 8.9, combined 11.6 L/100 km.
What cars was the Opel Z32SE installed on?
Opel Antara A (L07) in 2006 - 2010; Chevrolet Captiva C100 in 2006 - 2011.
What are the common problems of the Opel Z32SE?
This motor does not like frost and not only starts poorly in winter, but also freezes on the go. But the main problems of the engine are associated with the low resource of the timing chain mechanism. All known problems.
