The Volkswagen AJV is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2008. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT). This 20-valve powerplant delivered 147 kW (200 PS) and 280 Nm of torque, using a K03 turbocharger to provide strong mid-range thrust.
Fitted primarily to the Mk5 Golf GTI and early Eos models, the AJV was engineered for responsive performance and daily drivability. Emissions compliance for its production run was met through secondary air injection and catalytic converters, achieving Euro 4 standards across its applications.
One documented engineering revision involves the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe on the camshaft. Early AJV engines were noted for potential premature wear, addressed in later production via a hardened camshaft profile per Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin 2028066/4.
Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2008 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Volkswagen AJV is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for hot hatches and coupes (2005-2008). It combines DOHC 20-valve architecture with a K03 turbocharger to deliver responsive power and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances spirited performance with road usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,100 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MED 9.5 electronic fuel injection with direct injection (FSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT25 (K03) with integrated wastegate | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (upper camshafts) and belt-driven (lower camshaft to crank) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The FSI direct injection system provides excellent throttle response but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals with VW 504 00/507 00 spec oil to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves and HPFP failure. The dual timing drive (chain and belt) requires inspection at 120,000 km; failure of the lower belt can cause catastrophic engine damage. The updated camshaft profile (post-TSB 2028066/4) significantly reduces HPFP drive lobe wear common in early builds.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 or 507 00 specification (Volkswagen SIB 2028066/4). ACEA C3 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005-2008 AJV engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 98 RON fuel (Volkswagen Owner's Manual).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (ETKA): Docs 02A-100-002, SIB 2028066/4
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Volkswagen AJV was used in Volkswagen's performance Mk5 Golf GTI and Eos platforms with transverse mounting. This engine featured specific adaptations for the FSI fuel system, including a unique high-pressure fuel pump and camshaft drive. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The AJV engine code is stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder head, near the firewall (Volkswagen Repair Manual 2006). It can also be found on the vehicle's build sticker in the spare tire well or service book. Visually, it is distinguished by its cast iron block, black valve cover (unlike the AJA's red), and the FSI-specific high-pressure fuel pump mounted on the intake camshaft. The AJV is specific to FSI models; other 2.0T engines (e.g., CCTA, CAWA) have different management systems and power outputs.
The AJV's primary reliability consideration is its high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using incorrect oil or low-quality fuel. Volkswagen internal data indicated a correlation between neglected oil changes and HPFP failures, while UK DVSA data shows timing belt neglect as a leading cause of major engine damage. Adherence to specifications and service intervals is critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AJV.
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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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