The Volkswagen BKG is a 1,595 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2008. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and two valves per cylinder. This engine, part of the EA111 family, was designed for dependable, economical performance in entry-level and compact models.
Fitted primarily to the Polo (9N3) and Fox, the BKG offered smooth, linear power delivery suited for urban commuting and light highway use. Drivers could expect modest but adequate acceleration and good fuel efficiency. Emissions compliance for its production period was met under the Euro 4 standard.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the hydraulic valve lifters, potentially leading to a characteristic ticking noise. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin 2028045/2, is often attributed to oil flow restrictions or the use of incorrect viscosity oil. The subsequent BCA engine code introduced revised lifter designs for improved durability.
Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2008 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Volkswagen BKG is a 1,595 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact hatchbacks and city cars (2005-2008). It combines port fuel injection with a simple, robust valvetrain to deliver predictable, economical performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes reliability and low running costs for high-mileage drivers.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,595 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 86.9 mm | |
| Power output | 75 kW (102 PS) | |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Siemens Simos 3.3 port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; generally reliable) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, linear power ideal for city driving but requires high-quality synthetic oil (VW 502 00) changed every 15,000 km to ensure proper lubrication of the hydraulic lifters and timing chain. The primary reliability concern is lifter tick, often caused by infrequent oil changes or using oil that doesn't meet VW 502 00 specifications. The engine runs optimally on standard unleaded fuel (RON 95). The simple 8-valve design is generally robust and inexpensive to maintain.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005-2008 BKG models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is factory-rated for RON 95 fuel (Volkswagen TIS 2000+).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS 2000+): Doc. 2005 BKG
Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin: 2028045/2
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
The Volkswagen BKG was used primarily in Volkswagen's 9N3 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor ECU and accessory adaptations across different model trims. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, just below the intake manifold and to the right of the oil filter housing (Volkswagen TIS 2000+). The 8th VIN digit for BKG-powered Polos is typically 'B'. Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold and a standard black valve cover. Critical differentiation from the later BCA: The BKG uses an earlier revision of the hydraulic lifters. Service parts, particularly for the valvetrain, are often specific to the engine code.
The BKG's primary reliability risk is hydraulic lifter tick, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Volkswagen internal service data indicates a notable rate of lifter complaints before 120,000 km, while common owner reports highlight ignition coil failure as a frequent electrical issue. Extended oil change intervals and use of incorrect oil viscosity significantly accelerate lifter wear, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2009) and aggregated UK MOT failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BKG.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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