Oil-Vauxhall (Opel) uses two different oil specification systems depending on the engine's origin. Older GM-era engines require dexos certification, while newer Stellantis-era models with PSA engines follow Peugeot/Citroën specifications. Knowing which system your Vauxhall uses is essential for choosing the right oil.
dexos2 — GM-Era Petrol & Diesel Engines
dexos2 is GM's European oil specification required for all Vauxhall petrol and diesel engines manufactured under the GM era (up to approximately 2017-2019). It replaces the older GM-LL-A-025 (petrol) and GM-LL-B-025 (diesel) specs. dexos2 requires SAE 5W-30 with ACEA C3 performance and low-SAPS chemistry for DPF compatibility. This covers the Corsa D/E, Astra J/K, Insignia A/B, and Mokka X with GM engines (A-series, B-series codes).
PSA B71 2312 — PureTech Engines (Corsa F, Mokka, Grandland)
The newer Vauxhall Corsa F, Mokka (2nd gen), and Grandland use PSA's 1.2 PureTech engine with its infamous wet timing belt. These engines require PSA B71 2312 specification oil in SAE 0W-30 — the same as Peugeot 208 and Citroën C3. Using dexos2 oil in a PureTech engine is incorrect and will damage the wet belt. Always check which engine your Vauxhall has before buying oil.
How to Tell Which Spec Your Vauxhall Needs
The easiest way is to check the engine code on your V5C document. Vauxhall engine codes starting with A or B (A12XER, B14XFT, B16DTH) are GM engines requiring dexos2. Codes starting with EB (EB2ADTS, EB2ADTD) are PSA PureTech engines requiring B71 2312. If in doubt, check the oil filler cap — it usually states the required specification.