The Volkswagen BEW is a 1,896 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2004 and 2006. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout, pump-nozzle (PD) fuel injection, and a fixed-geometry turbocharger. This combination delivers 96 kW (130 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end pull for confident acceleration.
Fitted primarily to the Mk4 Golf, Jetta, and New Beetle in North America, the BEW was engineered for drivers seeking robust torque and long-distance fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and an oxidation catalyst, enabling adherence to U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 standards, a key requirement for the North American market.
One documented concern is potential failure of the tandem fuel pump, which integrates the vacuum pump for the brake booster. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin 2010987/1, can lead to hard brake pedal feel and fuel delivery problems. Volkswagen subsequently issued revised pump components for affected vehicles.
Volkswagen
Production years 2004–2006 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards (EPA Engine Family Code: VWXBEW04.5T5).
The Volkswagen BEW is a 1,896 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact models (2004-2006). It combines pump-nozzle (PD) direct injection with a fixed-geometry turbocharger to deliver strong, accessible torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 standards, it balances responsive performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,896 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 96 kW (130 PS) | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Unit injector (Pumpe Düse / PD) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 19.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed-geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 505 01 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo provides strong, predictable torque ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using VW 505 01 specification to prevent turbo and injector wear. The PD injectors demand high-quality, low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to prevent coking and failure. The timing belt must be replaced every 120,000 km along with the water pump and tensioners. The tandem pump is a known failure point; replacement with the revised part per Service Bulletin 2010987/1 is recommended for preventative maintenance.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 505 01 (5W-40) specification for PD injector protection (Volkswagen Technical Bulletin 2010987/1).
Emissions: U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all 2004–2006 BEW models (EPA Engine Family Code: VWXBEW04.5T5).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Single output rating for North American market (Volkswagen SSP 270).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 270
Volkswagen Group Technical Documentation (ETKA): 038 103 011
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Engine Certification Database
EPA Engine Family Code: VWXBEW04.5T5
The Volkswagen BEW was used exclusively in Volkswagen's A4 platform for the North American market with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations, ensuring broad interchangeability within its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the engine block, near the timing belt cover (Volkswagen SSP 270). The 8th digit of the VIN for North American models is typically 'B' for the BEW engine. Visually, the BEW can be identified by its black plastic valve cover with "TDI" embossed on it and the distinctive tandem pump on the rear of the cylinder head. Critical differentiation from the similar ALH engine: The BEW uses a Bosch EDC15P+ ECU, while the ALH uses an EDC15V+. Service parts, particularly for the fuel system, are specific to the BEW and not interchangeable with earlier PD engines without verification (Volkswagen Technical Bulletin 2010987/1).
The BEW's primary reliability risk is tandem pump failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Volkswagen internal service data indicated a significant number of pump replacements under extended warranty, while owner reports frequently cite a hard brake pedal and fuel pressure DTCs. Extended use of fuel not meeting ULSD standards or incorrect oil specifications accelerates wear, making adherence to VW 505 01 oil and quality diesel critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2004-2007) and U.S. NHTSA complaint data (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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