The Volkswagen AZV is a 1,896 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2000 and 2006. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), two valves per cylinder, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger, delivering a balance of fuel economy and low‑end pulling power for its era. Peak output is rated at 77 kW (105 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, providing adequate performance for everyday drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Mk4 Golf, Bora, and SEAT Toledo, the AZV was engineered for cost‑effective, reliable transportation with an emphasis on torque for effortless motorway cruising. Emissions compliance for its production run was met through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing it to conform to Euro 3 standards across its lifespan.
One documented concern is injector seal failure, which can lead to combustion gases entering the engine's oil system. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin 2015‑07, is often caused by heat cycling and seal material fatigue. The AZV was superseded by more advanced common-rail PD engines featuring higher pressure injection systems.
Volkswagen
Production years 2000–2006 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen AZV is a 1,896 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact family vehicles (2000-2006). It combines indirect injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and frugal fuel consumption. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it prioritizes reliability and economy over peak performance.
| 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 | 77 kW (105 PS) | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VP37 rotary injection pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 19.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt‑driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | VW 505 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 147 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides predictable, lag-free torque ideal for steady-state driving but lacks the peak power of later VGT units. Strict adherence to 10,000-15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 505 00 specification oil is critical to protect the injection pump and turbo bearings. The Bosch VP37 pump is sensitive to fuel contamination; only ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) should be used. Injector seal failure, per SIB 2015-07, can pressurize the crankcase; any sudden increase in oil level or smell of diesel in the oil requires immediate diagnosis. Timing belt replacement is mandatory at 120,000 km or 5 years.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 505 00 (5W-40) specification for pump and turbo protection (Volkswagen Service Manual).
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all AZV production years (2000-2006) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Volkswagen Group PT-2005).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Service Manual 1.9 TDI AZV
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue: Docs 038 100 001, 038 145 701
Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin: 2015-07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Volkswagen AZV was used across Volkswagen's A4 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-minor ECU mapping for the Bora-but no major facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the engine block, just below the injection pump (Volkswagen TIS). The 8th VIN digit for AZV-equipped vehicles is typically 'A'. The AZV is visually identified by its SOHC 8-valve cylinder head and the Bosch VP37 rotary injection pump mounted on the left side of the engine. Critical differentiation from ALH/AGR: The AZV uses a different ECU (038 906 012 EK vs 038 906 012 AH for ALH) and has a slightly higher power output. Timing belt kits are generally interchangeable with other 8v TDI engines of the era, but injector seals are specific to the AZV (per SIB 2015-07).
The AZV's primary reliability risk is injector seal failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples. Volkswagen internal data indicates this is a common wear item after 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a correlation with neglected oil changes. Extended oil service intervals increase the risk of seal degradation, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2000-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AZV.
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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