The Volkswagen BBW is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2006 and 2015. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves. This unit, part of the EA111 family, delivered 90 kW (122 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pull for its displacement.
Fitted primarily to the Mk5 and Mk6 Golf, as well as the Jetta and Scirocco, the BBW was engineered for spirited performance in compact vehicles. Drivers could expect responsive acceleration and a characteristic turbo whistle. Emissions compliance was managed through secondary air injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the plastic intake manifold's swirl flap mechanism, which can lead to broken flaps being ingested by the engine. This issue, addressed in Volkswagen's Technical Service Bulletin 2031470, is linked to material fatigue and actuator failure. Revised manifolds with deleted or reinforced flaps were the prescribed mitigation.
Volkswagen
Production years 2006–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2015 models meet Euro 5 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
The Volkswagen BBW is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2006-2015). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with a small turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive power. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it offers a blend of performance and relative efficiency for its class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 90 kW (122 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MED 9.5, multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (2006–2009); Euro 5 (2010–2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI IS12 turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Toothed belt | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The turbocharged induction provides strong, accessible torque but demands vigilant maintenance to ensure longevity. The plastic intake manifold's swirl flaps are a critical failure point and should be inspected or replaced with a delete kit per TSB 2031470. Using only VW 502 00/504 00 specification oil is critical for protecting the turbocharger. The timing belt, which also drives the water pump, must be replaced at 90,000 km or 6 years. Ignoring the swirl flaps or timing belt can result in complete engine failure.
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 2006-2009 models; Euro 5 for 2010-2015 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Volkswagen SSP 384).
Volkswagen Service Training: SSP 384 (EA111 1.4 TSI Engines)
Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin: TSB 2031470
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9123)
The Volkswagen BBW was used across Volkswagen's A5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Scirocco for sportier handling. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Volkswagen SSP 384). The BBW can be visually identified by its black plastic intake manifold with integrated throttle body and the "1.4 TSI" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from other 1.4 TSI engines: The BBW uses an IHI IS12 turbo and has a specific ECU part number. It also features a plastic intake manifold with swirl flaps, unlike later TSI engines. Service parts, particularly the intake manifold, are specific to the BBW and early CAXA engines.
The BBW's primary reliability risk is catastrophic engine damage from failing swirl flaps in the intake manifold, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Volkswagen TSB 2031470 documents this as a critical service item, while owner reports frequently cite engine replacement costs exceeding £2,500. Aggressive driving and neglected maintenance dramatically increase the risk, making proactive inspection and manifold replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2006-2015) and aggregated owner repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BBW.
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VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
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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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