The Volkswagen 1P is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2009. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection. This compact unit was engineered for efficiency in Volkswagen's supermini and city car range, delivering outputs between 55–77 kW (75–105 PS) and 126–148 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the Polo Mk4 (9N/9N3) and Fox (5N) models, the 1P engine was designed for urban agility and low running costs. Its character prioritises fuel economy and smooth low‑end response for stop‑start traffic. Emissions compliance was managed through electronic engine management and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 4 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the intake camshaft and its hydraulic lifters, potentially leading to a characteristic tapping noise and reduced performance. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2028147/1, is often attributed to lubrication quality or extended service intervals. The design was superseded by the more robust EA111 series engines.
Volkswagen
Production years 2003–2009 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen 1P is a 1,390 cc inline‑four petrol engineered for supermini applications (2003-2009). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive low-end torque and frugal urban consumption. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday usability with low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 55–77 kW (75–105 PS) | |
| Torque | 126–148 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00 specification oil to prevent camshaft and lifter wear. Extended oil service or incorrect viscosity can accelerate wear, leading to noise and power loss per STB 2028147/1. The timing chain is designed as maintenance-free; however, tensioner failure, though rare, can cause catastrophic engine damage. Fuel system is tolerant of standard 95 RON petrol.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). LongLife service requires 504 00.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2003–2009 1P engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies by model application and ECU mapping (Volkswagen SSP 305).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 305
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin (STB): 2028147/1
The Volkswagen 1P was used across Volkswagen's 9N/5N platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU calibrations for the Fox versus the Polo-creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder block, near the transmission flange (Volkswagen SSP 305). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for this era. Visually, the 1P engine has a black plastic intake manifold and a coil-on-plug ignition system. Critical differentiation from the later 1.4 TSI (EA111): The 1P is naturally aspirated with no turbocharger or intercooler. Service parts are generally consistent across Polo and Fox applications, but ECU software part numbers must match the specific vehicle.
The 1P's primary reliability risk is intake camshaft and lifter wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals or lower-quality lubricants. Volkswagen STB 2028147/1 documents this issue, while general owner feedback highlights it as a frequent concern. Neglecting oil service makes using the correct VW specification oil critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN 1P.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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