Engine Code

VOLKSWAGEN BLS engine (2005–2010) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volkswagen BLS – Petrol is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features gasoline direct injection (FSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a single turbocharger. In standard form, it delivered 147 kW (200 PS), providing strong, linear power delivery characteristic of the FSI technology.

Fitted primarily to the Mk5 Volkswagen Passat and the Škoda Superb, the BLS engine was engineered for refined performance and responsive acceleration. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through precise fuel metering and catalytic conversion, aligning with Euro 4 standards.

One documented concern is carbon buildup on the intake valves, a known characteristic of early direct-injection engines without secondary port injection. This issue, addressed in later EA888 engines, can lead to rough idle or misfires if not maintained. Volkswagen issued technical guidance for periodic intake cleaning procedures.

Volkswegon Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

BLS Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen BLS – Petrol is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for mid‑size sedans (2005-2010). It combines gasoline direct injection (FSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive, linear power and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with contemporary emissions requirements.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,984 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke82.5 mm × 92.8 mm
Power output147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,100 rpm
Torque280 Nm @ 1,800–5,000 rpm
Fuel systemGasoline direct injection (FSI)
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle turbocharger (Garrett)
Timing systemChain-driven
Oil typeVW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weightNot publicly specified in SSP/ETKA
Practical Implications

The FSI system delivers strong, linear power but is prone to carbon buildup on intake valves due to the lack of fuel washing over them. This requires periodic professional cleaning (every 60,000–80,000 km) to maintain smooth idle and prevent misfires. Using high-quality, Top Tier fuel can help mitigate deposit formation. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected if unusual noise is present. Oil changes must use VW 502 00/504 00 specification to protect turbo and chain components.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). LongLife 04 5W-30 is not approved for this engine.

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2010 BLS engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across documented applications (Volkswagen SSP 324).

Primary Sources

Volkswagen Service Training Programme (SSP 324): '2.0l FSI Turbo Engine (BWA/BPY/BLS)'

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

Volkswagen Electronic Parts Catalogue (ETKA)

BLS Compatible Models

The Volkswagen BLS – Petrol was used across Volkswagen's B6 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations and was shared with the Škoda Superb. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2005–2010
Models:
Passat (B6/3C)
Variants:
2.0 TFSI
View Source
Volkswagen Group PT-2008
Make:
Škoda
Years:
2008–2010
Models:
Superb (B6/3U)
Variants:
2.0 TFSI
View Source
Škoda Technical Information
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the flat surface of the cylinder block, near the transmission flange on the intake side (Volkswagen SSP 324). The engine code is also listed on the vehicle data sticker, typically found in the spare tire well or on the driver's door jamb. Visually, the BLS can be identified by its plastic intake manifold and the "2.0 TFSI" badge on the engine cover. It shares its basic architecture with the BWA and BPY engines; differentiation is confirmed by the specific engine code stamping and ECU software.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Volkswagen SSP 324

Location:

  • Stamped on the cylinder block near the transmission flange (intake side).
  • Also listed on the vehicle data sticker (spare tire well or door jamb).

Visual Cues:

  • Plastic intake manifold.
  • Engine cover labeled '2.0 TFSI'.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Volkswagen ETKA

Engine Family:

  • The BLS is part of the EA113 engine family and shares core components with BWA/BPY variants.
  • ECU software and some ancillary parts differ; direct swaps require matching components and coding.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLKSWAGEN BLS

The BLS – Petrol's primary reliability concern is intake valve carbon buildup, a common trait of early FSI engines. While not typically catastrophic, it leads to drivability complaints and requires specific maintenance. High-quality fuel and adherence to service intervals are critical for long-term smooth operation.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, cold start misfires, hesitation under light load, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Lack of fuel spray on intake valves in direct-injection design allows oil vapors to bake into hard carbon deposits.
Fix: Professional walnut shell or chemical intake valve cleaning per manufacturer procedure; consider installing an oil catch can.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Long crank times, engine stuttering under load, illuminated check engine light (fuel pressure codes).
Cause: Wear or internal failure of the cam-driven high-pressure fuel pump, a critical component of the FSI system.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump with the latest OEM-specified unit; inspect cam follower for wear during replacement.
Ignition coil or spark plug failure
Symptoms: Misfires (especially under load), rough running, loss of power, check engine light with misfire codes.
Cause: High cylinder pressures and temperatures from turbocharging and direct injection accelerate wear on ignition components.
Fix: Replace faulty ignition coils and spark plugs with OEM-specified parts; NGK or Bosch are common approved brands.
Oil consumption (moderate)
Symptoms: Need to top up oil between services (e.g., 0.5-1L per 1,000 km), blue smoke from exhaust under heavy acceleration.
Cause: Piston ring design in early EA113 TFSI engines can allow for higher-than-average oil consumption, especially if oil changes are infrequent.
Fix: Monitor oil level regularly and top up as needed. Use correct VW 502 00/504 00 oil. Severe cases may require piston ring replacement.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLKSWAGEN BLS

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BLS.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

About EngineCode.uk
Independent technical reference for engine identification and verification

Platform Overview

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.

Sourcing Policy

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.

Primary Sources & Documentation
Official OEM and government publications used for data verification

Primary Sources

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.

Official Documentation

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory Context & Methodology
Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

Regulatory Context

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.

Methodology

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

Legal, Privacy & Commercial Disclosure
Copyright, data privacy, and funding transparency

Copyright & Legal

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

Data Privacy

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

Trademarks

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.

Commercial Disclosure

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.

Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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.