The Volkswagen 2H is a 1,781 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 8‑valve design and multi‑point fuel injection, marking a transition from carburetted predecessors. Its cast‑iron block and aluminium head construction offered a balance of durability and weight for compact family vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Volkswagen Golf Mk2 and Jetta Mk2, the 2H engine was engineered for smooth, economical performance with improved drivability over carburetted models. It offered a modest power increase while focusing on reliability and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection and catalytic converters, meeting the prevailing standards for its production period.
One documented area for attention is potential for distributor drive gear wear, which can affect ignition timing, as noted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2‑88‑09. This issue is typically linked to lubrication or material fatigue over high mileage. The 2H was eventually superseded by more advanced 16-valve and Digifant engine management variants.
Production years 1985–1992 meet the emissions standards applicable in their respective markets at the time of manufacture (VCA UK Type Approval historical records).
The Volkswagen 2H is a 1,781 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1985-1992). It combines a simple SOHC valvetrain with multi-point fuel injection to deliver reliable, economical performance. Designed to meet the emissions regulations of its era, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 86.4 mm | |
| Power output | 66–74 kW (90–100 PS) | |
| Torque | 145–155 Nm @ 3,000–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CIS-E or Digifant multi-point fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (Market-specific regulations) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 – 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 mineral/semi-synthetic oil | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The multi-point injection provides more consistent performance than carburettors but requires a functioning electrical system and sensors. The toothed timing belt must be replaced at the manufacturer's interval (typically 80,000–100,000 km) to prevent engine damage, as it is an interference design. The distributor drive gear is a known wear item on high-mileage engines; inspect for play during major services. Using the correct viscosity oil helps maintain hydraulic lifter function and reduces valve train noise.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). Modern full synthetics may be acceptable but were not original specification.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to all models (VCA Historical Records). No standardized Euro norms existed during this production period.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output varies by injection system (CIS-E vs. Digifant) and market (Volkswagen Group PT-1990).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (ETKA): Docs 037 100 003, 043 100 004
Volkswagen Workshop Manual: Golf Mk2 (Typ 19)
UK Vehicle Certification Agency Historical Database
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Volkswagen 2H was used across Volkswagen's Golf Mk2 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received updates from CIS-E to Digifant engine management during its production run, creating electrical system variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat boss at the rear of the engine block, near the transmission flange (Volkswagen Workshop Manual). The 2H code is typically followed by a serial number. Visually, it can be identified by its SOHC valve cover and the presence of a distributor (unlike later distributorless engines). Differentiate from the 1.8L 16v (code '9A') by the valve cover design and distributor. CIS-E models have a distinctive fuel distributor unit on the intake manifold, while Digifant models have a simpler setup with individual injectors.
The 2H's primary reliability risk is catastrophic engine failure from a broken timing belt, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding service intervals. Volkswagen workshop data indicates this is the most common cause of major engine damage for this model. The secondary common issue is wear of the distributor drive gear, which can lead to drivability problems and is well-documented in service bulletins.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (1985-1992) and aggregated workshop repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN 2H.
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VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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