The Volkswagen ARM is a 1,595 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2008. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder and multi‑point fuel injection. This design prioritised cost‑effective manufacturing and reliable low‑to‑mid range torque for everyday urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Mk4 Polo (9N) and SEAT Ibiza (6L), the ARM engine was engineered for economical, fuss‑free motoring. It delivered adequate performance for its class, focusing on fuel efficiency and smooth operation over outright power. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved to meet Euro 3 standards through basic engine management and exhaust aftertreatment.
One documented service concern is premature failure of the ignition coil packs, which can lead to misfires and reduced performance. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin STB‑08‑05‑01, is often attributed to heat cycling and electrical stress. Later production runs incorporated revised coil components for improved durability.
Volkswagen
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards; 2006–2008 models may have Euro 4 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321).
The Volkswagen ARM is a 1,595 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (2000-2008). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver predictable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 3 (and some market-specific Euro 4) standards, it prioritises reliability and low running costs.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,595 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 86.9 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) | |
| Torque | 126 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (pre‑2006); Euro 4 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design offers predictable, economical performance ideal for city commuting but lacks high-RPM power. Strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00 specification oil is critical to prevent sludge buildup and maintain hydraulic tappet function. The non-interference design provides a safety margin against timing chain failure. Ignition coil packs are a known wear item; replacement with OEM parts per STB-08-05-01 is recommended at first sign of misfire to prevent catalytic converter damage. Fuel injectors should be cleaned every 60,000 km to maintain optimal spray patterns and fuel economy.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 (5W-40) specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to pre-2006 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4321). Some 2006-2008 models meet Euro 4 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Volkswagen SSP 281).
Volkswagen Service Technical Literature: SSP 281, STB 08-05-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4321)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Volkswagen ARM was used across Volkswagen's supermini platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU calibrations for the Polo versus the Ibiza-creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Volkswagen SSP 281). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code for Volkswagen Group vehicles. Visually, the ARM is identifiable by its black plastic intake manifold and centrally mounted ignition coil pack. Critical differentiation from similar 1.6L engines (e.g., AUS, BCB): The ARM uses a single ignition coil pack serving all four cylinders, whereas later engines use individual coil-on-plug units. Service parts for the ignition system are specific to the ARM and not interchangeable with other variants.
The ARM's primary reliability risk is ignition coil pack failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate vehicles. Internal Volkswagen quality reports indicated a notable failure rate before 100,000 km, while owner feedback frequently cites misfires as the most common complaint. Extended heat cycles and electrical load make using the latest OEM-specified coil pack critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and aggregated owner repair data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN ARM.
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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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