The Volkswagen BLT is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features gasoline direct injection (TSI), a single turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This engine, part of the EA888 Gen 2 family, was designed to offer a blend of performance and efficiency, with outputs typically ranging from 155 kW (211 PS) to 176 kW (240 PS) and torque figures around 280–350 Nm.
Fitted to models such as the Mk6 Golf GTI, Passat B7, and Audi A4 B8, the BLT was engineered for spirited driving with responsive power delivery and good high-rpm refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through technologies like variable valve timing, allowing it to meet Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain slack and potential engine damage. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen/Audi service documentation, is often linked to design characteristics of the early EA888 Gen 2 tensioner. Later production runs incorporated revised components to address this.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen BLT is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented compact and mid‑size models (2008-2015). It combines gasoline direct injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive power and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances sporty performance with reasonable 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 | 155–176 kW (211–240 PS) | |
| Torque | 280–350 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (TSI), Bosch MED17.1 ECU | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (IHI or BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30 or 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 160 kg |
The turbocharged TSI design provides strong, linear power delivery ideal for overtaking but requires adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil change intervals using VW-spec oil to prevent sludge and turbo issues. The timing chain, while generally robust, can suffer from tensioner wear; any rattle on cold start should be inspected promptly. High-quality 95 RON (or 98 RON for optimal performance) fuel is recommended. The high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) is sensitive to fuel quality; using reputable stations is advised. Revised tensioners were introduced during the production run; pre-2012 engines are most susceptible.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 504 00 specification oil (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). LongLife service intervals are conditional on using correct oil.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all BLT engines (2008-2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires premium (98 RON) fuel for optimal performance and knock protection (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 2048-01).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 2048-01, 2048-02
Volkswagen Electronic Technical Catalogue (ETKA)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Volkswagen BLT was used across Volkswagen and Audi platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and ECU mappings for various power outputs-and shared its core architecture with other EA888 Gen 2 variants, creating broad but not universal interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat surface of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange or on the timing cover (Volkswagen TIS 2048-01). The 8th digit of the VIN often corresponds to the engine code for Volkswagen Group vehicles. The BLT is visually identified by its TSI badge on the engine cover and its specific intake manifold design. Critical differentiation from other EA888 engines: The BLT typically uses a specific ECU software version and turbocharger part number. Always verify the engine code stamp and cross-reference with ETKA for exact part compatibility, as intake manifolds and ancillaries can vary between models and power levels.
The BLT's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal Volkswagen/Audi service data indicated a notable number of pre-2012 engines required tensioner replacement, while UK DVSA records show PCV system failures are a common cause of oil consumption complaints. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality oil accelerate wear, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen/Audi technical bulletins (2010-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BLT.
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VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
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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)
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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