The Volkswagen BCA is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam, delivering a balance of power and efficiency. Output ranges from 110 kW (150 PS) to 147 kW (200 PS) depending on application, with torque figures between 200–280 Nm.
Fitted to models such as the Mk5 Golf GTI, Jetta, and Eos, the BCA was engineered for spirited, everyday driving. It offered responsive performance and a characteristic exhaust note, appealing to enthusiasts. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel injection and catalytic conversion, 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, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin 2028808, is linked to insufficient lubrication under high load. Revised cam followers and updated HPFP units were introduced as countermeasures.
Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen BCA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbo‑charged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks and sedans (2005-2010). It combines gasoline direct injection (FSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive power and a broad torque curve. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances sporty character with acceptable fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 110–147 kW (150–200 PS) | |
| Torque | 200–280 Nm @ 1,800–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MED 9.5.10 FSI (Gasoline Direct Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Garrett GT1446V or K03 (depending on variant) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 143 kg |
The turbocharged FSI system provides strong mid-range pull but requires premium unleaded fuel (RON 98) for optimal performance and to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. Strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals with VW 504 00 specification oil is critical to protect the high-pressure fuel pump cam follower and timing chain. Carbon cleaning of the intake manifold is recommended every 60,000-80,000 km. The revised cam follower (part no. 06F 109 153 D) should be installed preventatively per VW STB 2028808. Ignition coil packs are known to fail intermittently, especially on higher-mileage engines.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). 504 00 is preferred for extended drain intervals.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005-2010 BCA models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 98 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS 20G6).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 20G6, 20G7
Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin (STB): 2028808
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Volkswagen BCA was used across Volkswagen's A5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Golf R32 and specific ECU mapping for the Eos-and from 2008 minor ECU updates were implemented for emissions compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, near the transmission flange (Volkswagen TIS 20G6). The 8th VIN digit for BCA-equipped vehicles is typically 'C'. Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold with "FSI" branding and a centrally mounted throttle body. Critical differentiation from the later CCTA engine: BCA uses a cable-operated throttle body, while CCTA uses electronic throttle control (drive-by-wire). The high-pressure fuel pump is mounted on the intake camshaft and driven by a dedicated lobe.
The BCA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure due to cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using lower-grade fuel or extended oil change intervals. Internal Volkswagen data indicated a significant number of failures before 100,000 km, while owner forums consistently report ignition coil failures. Adherence to fuel and oil specifications is critical to mitigate these risks.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2006-2010) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BCA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLKSWAGEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLKSWAGEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
