The Volkswagen BDG is a 1,968 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with common rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering strong low-end torque ideal for everyday drivability. Output ranges from 103 kW (140 PS) to 125 kW (170 PS) with torque figures consistently at 350 Nm.
Fitted to models such as the Mk6 Golf, Jetta, Passat B7, and Tiguan, the BDG was engineered for refined, economical performance. It offered responsive acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency, appealing to fleet and private users alike. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is potential failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), which can lead to sudden loss of power or non-start conditions. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin 2035712, is linked to internal component wear under sustained high pressure. Revised pump units were introduced as a countermeasure for affected production batches.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Volkswagen BDG is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size SUVs and sedans (2008-2015). It combines Bosch piezo-injector common rail technology with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver robust low‑rpm torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances strong performance with stringent emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 103–125 kW (140–170 PS) | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 Common Rail (Piezo Injectors, up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (IHI or Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong, linear torque delivery but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 507 00 specification oil to protect the turbo bearings and timing chain. Ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards is mandatory to prevent damage to the high-pressure fuel pump and injectors. The DPF system demands regular highway driving cycles for passive regeneration; frequent short trips will trigger active regenerations, increasing fuel consumption. The revised HPFP (part no. 03L 130 088 AD) should be installed if replacing the original unit per VW STB 2035712. EGR valve clogging is a common maintenance item.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). This low-ash oil is critical for DPF longevity.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2008-2015 BDG models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires EN 590 diesel fuel (Volkswagen TIS 20P6).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 20P6, 20P7
Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin (STB): 2035712
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
The Volkswagen BDG was used across Volkswagen's A5/A6 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Tiguan and specific ECU mapping for the Passat-and from 2012 minor software updates were implemented for OBD diagnostics, creating minor 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 20P6). The 8th VIN digit for BDG-equipped vehicles is typically 'D'. Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold and a centrally mounted EGR cooler. Critical differentiation from the earlier BKD engine: BDG uses piezo injectors and a different HPFP design. The turbocharger is mounted at the rear of the engine, with the exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head.
The BDG's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or poor fuel quality. Internal Volkswagen warranty data indicated a notable number of failures before 120,000 km, while owner reports consistently cite EGR system faults. Adherence to fuel quality and service intervals is critical to mitigate these risks.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2009-2015) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (2012-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BDG.
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.
