The Volkswagen BLY is a 1,968 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and a common rail direct fuel injection system. Peak output is 103 kW (140 PS) with 320 Nm of torque, delivered via a variable nozzle turbocharger (VNT) for strong low‑rpm response.
Fitted primarily to the Mk5 Golf, Jetta, and Touran, the BLY was engineered for a blend of everyday drivability, fuel efficiency, and relaxed motorway cruising. Emissions compliance for its production run was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 4 standards.
A documented concern involves premature failure of the dual-mass flywheel (DMF), which can manifest as drivetrain shuddering or noise. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletin 2028345/1, is often attributed to material fatigue under high-torque loads. Later production runs incorporated revised components.

Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen BLY is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and MPV models (2005-2010). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable nozzle turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Common Rail (Piezo injectors) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable Nozzle Turbo (VNT, Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (requires replacement) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The VNT turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for overtaking but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil change intervals using VW 507 00 specification to protect the turbo and injectors. The timing belt must be replaced at 120,000 km or 5 years, whichever comes first, along with the water pump and tensioners. The DPF system demands regular highway driving cycles for passive regeneration; frequent short trips can lead to blockages and expensive forced regenerations. The documented DMF issue necessitates inspection during clutch changes, with replacement recommended if wear is evident per STB 2028345/1.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). Critical for DPF and injector longevity.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005-2010 BLY models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output requires EN 590 diesel fuel (Volkswagen SSP 367).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 367
Volkswagen Electronic Technical Catalogue (ETKA)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
The Volkswagen BLY was used across Volkswagen's A5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-standardised ECU mapping for the Golf and Jetta, and revised engine mounts for the Touran-creating minor interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, just below the injection pump (Volkswagen SSP 367). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code for Volkswagen Group vehicles. The BLY is visually identified by its black plastic valve cover and the presence of a DPF canister in the exhaust system. Critical differentiation from the BRU engine: The BLY uses piezo injectors and a specific ECU map; parts are not always interchangeable. Always verify the engine code before ordering parts, as timing belt kits and ancillaries can vary even within the same model year.
The BLY's primary reliability risk is dual-mass flywheel (DMF) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for towing or aggressive driving. Internal Volkswagen data indicated a notable failure rate before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a correlation between DPF-related faults and vehicles primarily used for short urban journeys. High torque loads and insufficient DPF regeneration make proactive maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2008-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BLY.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.