Engine Code

VOLKSWAGEN AZZ engine (2003–2008) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volkswagen AZZ is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2003 and 2008. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam. This 20-valve unit, part of the EA113 family, delivered 150 kW (204 PS) and 280 Nm of torque, providing strong mid-range pull for its era.

Fitted primarily to the B6 Passat and Mk5 Golf R32, the AZZ was engineered for spirited performance and refined highway cruising. Drivers could expect responsive acceleration paired with a characteristic induction sound. Emissions compliance was managed through secondary air injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 4 standards.

One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower, which can lead to pump failure and engine damage. This issue, addressed in Volkswagen's Technical Service Bulletin 2028060, is linked to insufficient lubrication under high load. Revised cam followers and strict oil change adherence were the prescribed mitigation.

Volkswegon Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2003–2008 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

AZZ Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen AZZ is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance sedans and hatchbacks (2003-2008). It combines DOHC 20-valve architecture with variable intake timing to deliver responsive power and a broad torque curve. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it offers a blend of performance and relative efficiency for its class.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,984 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 20‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke82.5 mm × 92.8 mm
Power output150 kW (204 PS) @ 5,100 rpm
Torque280 Nm @ 2,200–5,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch Motronic MED 9.1, direct injection
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerKKK K03 turbocharger
Timing systemChain-driven (intake cam), belt-driven (exhaust cam)
Oil typeVW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight168 kg
Practical Implications

The turbocharged induction provides strong, accessible power but demands vigilant maintenance to ensure longevity. The high-pressure fuel pump cam follower requires inspection every 60,000 km to prevent catastrophic failure, as per TSB 2028060. Using only VW 502 00/504 00 specification oil is critical for protecting the turbocharger and variable valve timing components. The timing belt (driving the exhaust cam and ancillaries) must be replaced at 120,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first. Ignoring the cam follower or timing belt can result in complete engine failure.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum equivalent standard.

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all AZZ engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Volkswagen SSP 324).

Primary Sources

Volkswagen Service Training: SSP 324 (EA113 1.8T/2.0T Engines)

Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin: TSB 2028060

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

AZZ Compatible Models

The Volkswagen AZZ was used across Volkswagen's B6 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Passat and a unique intake manifold for the Golf R32. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2005–2008
Models:
Passat (B6)
Variants:
2.0 TFSI
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2005–2008
Models:
Golf (Mk5)
Variants:
R32 (North American Spec)
View Source
Volkswagen Group PT-2018
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Volkswagen SSP 324). The 8th digit of the VIN for North American R32 models is 'Z', indicating the 3.2L VR6, while the AZZ engine code is physically stamped on the block. The AZZ can be visually identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the "2.0 TFSI" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from other 2.0T engines: The AZZ uses a K03 turbo and has a specific ECU part number. Service parts, particularly the cam follower, are specific to the AZZ and early BLG engines; using incorrect parts can lead to rapid failure.

Cam Follower Inspection

Issue:

The high-pressure fuel pump is driven by a lobe on the intake camshaft via a cam follower (lifter). This component is prone to premature wear.

Evidence:

Volkswagen TSB 2028060

Recommendation:

Inspect the cam follower for wear every 60,000 km or during every major service. Replace immediately if wear exceeds 0.5mm or if the coating is compromised, per TSB 2028060.
Timing Belt Service

Warning:

The AZZ is an interference engine. Failure of the timing belt will result in severe internal engine damage.

Evidence:

Volkswagen Owner's Manual

Interval:

Replace the timing belt, tensioner, and idler rollers at 120,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLKSWAGEN AZZ

The AZZ's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure due to cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with missed inspections or incorrect oil. Volkswagen TSB 2028060 documents this as a critical service item, while owner reports frequently cite engine replacement costs exceeding £3,000. Aggressive driving and extended oil change intervals dramatically increase the risk, making proactive inspection and correct lubrication critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start, long cranking times, fuel pressure DTCs (e.g., P2293), engine stalling under load.
Cause: Wear of the cam follower that drives the HPFP, leading to inadequate pump actuation and eventual pump seizure or destruction.
Fix: Replace the cam follower and inspect/replace the HPFP and camshaft lobe as necessary per TSB 2028060. Use only VW 502 00/504 00 oil.
Timing belt failure
Symptoms: Sudden engine stoppage, loud clattering noise on startup, engine will not crank or start.
Cause: Belt wear, tensioner failure, or exceeding service interval, leading to belt breakage in an interference engine design.
Fix: Replace the entire timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, idlers, water pump) at the prescribed interval. Inspect for coolant/oil contamination.
Carbon buildup on intake valves
Symptoms: Rough idle, cold start misfires, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, check engine light with misfire codes.
Cause: Direct injection design allows oil vapors from the crankcase ventilation (PCV) system to bake onto the back of intake valves, restricting airflow.
Fix: Perform walnut shell blasting or manual cleaning of intake valves. Consider installing an oil catch can to mitigate future buildup.
Ignition coil and spark plug failure
Symptoms: Engine misfire (especially under load), rough idle, loss of power, flashing check engine light, DTCs for specific cylinders.
Cause: High cylinder pressures and temperatures can degrade ignition coils and foul spark plugs prematurely, especially with modified engines.
Fix: Replace faulty ignition coils and spark plugs with OEM-specified parts. Ensure correct torque and gap settings during installation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and aggregated owner repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLKSWAGEN AZZ

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN AZZ.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLKSWAGEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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