The Volkswagen AFN is a 1,896 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1996 and 2000. It features indirect injection, a fixed-geometry turbocharger, and a single overhead camshaft, delivering 66 kW (90 PS) and 210 Nm of torque. Its cast‑iron block construction provides durability for high-mileage commuting and light towing.
Fitted primarily to the B4 Passat (3A) and Mk3 Golf (1H), the AFN was engineered for dependable, torque-rich performance with an emphasis on fuel economy. Emissions compliance for its production era was managed through an oxidation catalyst and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 2 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the injection pump’s electronic control unit (ECU), which can lead to sudden engine cut-outs. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen workshop manuals and service bulletins, is often linked to moisture ingress or voltage spikes. The engine was superseded by more advanced direct-injection powerplants.
Volkswagen
Production years 1996–2000 meet Euro 2 standards for their respective markets (VCA UK Type Approval documentation for model years).
The Volkswagen AFN is a 1,896 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine engineered for mid‑size sedans and hatchbacks (1996-2000). It combines indirect fuel injection with a single overhead camshaft to deliver strong low-end torque and robust reliability. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes fuel efficiency and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,896 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) | |
| Torque | 210 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Indirect injection (Bosch VP37 rotary pump) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 19.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed-geometry turbo (Garrett or KKK) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | VW 505 00 (SAE 15W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in primary sources |
The SOHC 8-valve design offers simplicity and low-cost maintenance but requires a 60,000 km timing belt replacement to prevent catastrophic failure. The Bosch VP37 injection pump is generally robust but its electronic control unit is susceptible to moisture and electrical faults. Using VW 505 00 specification oil is critical to protect the turbocharger and injection pump. The EGR system requires periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent rough running. The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable boost but lacks the low-end response of later VGT units.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 505 00 specification (Volkswagen Workshop Manual). Supersedes basic ACEA B3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all model years (VCA Type Approval Database).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Volkswagen Group PT-1998). Output is consistent across verified applications.
Volkswagen Technical Service Information & Workshop Manuals
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
VCA Type Approval Database
The Volkswagen AFN was used across Volkswagen's B4 and A3 platforms with longitudinal and transverse mounting respectively. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-for example, revised engine mounts and accessory drives for the Passat-creating minor interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front edge of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Volkswagen Workshop Manual). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for Volkswagen Group vehicles of this era. The AFN can be visually identified by its single camshaft cover and the Bosch VP37 rotary injection pump mounted on the side of the engine. Critical differentiation from similar engines (e.g., AHU, AGR) lies in its specific power output (90 PS) and ECU part number. Service parts like gaskets and sensors are generally interchangeable within the 1.9L TDI family, but injection pump and ECU components are specific to the AFN.
The AFN's primary reliability risk is failure of the injection pump's electronic control unit, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to damp conditions or poor electrical grounding. Volkswagen workshop data indicates this is a common cause of no-start conditions after 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show emissions-related faults as a frequent MOT advisory item. Neglecting oil service intervals accelerates wear, making adherence to the specified oil grade and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (1996-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (historical data). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AFN.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLKSWAGEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLKSWAGEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
