The Volkswagen BLX is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features gasoline direct injection (FSI), a single turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This engine, part of the EA888 Gen 2 family, was designed to offer a blend of strong performance and respectable efficiency for its era.
Fitted to models such as the Mk5 and Mk6 Golf GTI, Jetta GLI, and Eos, the BLX was engineered for spirited driving with a focus on mid-range torque and throttle response. Emissions compliance for most units was achieved through secondary air injection and catalytic converters, meeting Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards depending on the model year and specific market configuration.
One documented concern involves potential failure of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain slack and catastrophic engine damage if not addressed. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletins, is often attributed to premature wear of the tensioner's ratchet mechanism. Later revisions within the EA888 family incorporated design improvements to mitigate this specific failure mode.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2010 generally meet Euro 4 standards; 2011–2015 models typically comply with Euro 5 regulations depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen BLX is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for hot hatch and compact performance models (2008-2015). It combines gasoline direct injection (FSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance driving with everyday usability.
| 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 kW (210 PS) | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,800–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (FSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 / Euro 5 (depending on year/market) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (IHI or BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (known tensioner issues) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 155 kg |
The turbocharged FSI system provides strong, linear power but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 10,000-15,000 km) using VW 502 00/504 00 specification oil to prevent timing chain tensioner failure and turbo issues. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality; premium unleaded (95 RON minimum, 98 RON recommended) is advised. Early detection of a faint rattle on cold start is critical, indicating potential tensioner wear per VW Group STB 2012-07. Addressing this promptly prevents catastrophic engine damage. The PCV system should be inspected regularly to avoid oil consumption problems.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). LongLife 04 supersedes older ACEA A3/B4 for these engines.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to 2008-2010 models; Euro 5 applies to 2011-2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across documented applications (Volkswagen TIS 20G8).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 20G8, 20G9
Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletins (STB 2012-07)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Volkswagen BLX was used across Volkswagen's Mk5/Mk6 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the Eos convertible and specific ECU calibrations for the Scirocco-but no major facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring broad parts interchangeability within the EA888 Gen 2 family. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the rear of the cylinder head, near the firewall (Volkswagen TIS 20G8). The 8th digit of the VIN for these models is typically 'B' for the 210 PS variant. Visually, the BLX can be identified by its plastic intake manifold and the "2.0 TFSI" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from later EA888 Gen 3 engines: BLX uses a chain-driven water pump integrated with the timing system, whereas Gen 3 moved to a belt-driven pump. Service parts for the timing system are generally compatible across EA888 Gen 2 engines, but ECU software is model-specific.
The BLX's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles. Internal Volkswagen service data indicates this was a notable concern for early EA888 Gen 2 engines, while owner reports frequently cite high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures. Extended oil change intervals and use of incorrect oil viscosity significantly increase the risk of chain and turbo issues.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2010-2015) and aggregated UK MOT failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BLX.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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