The Volkswagen BMA is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), a single turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form, it delivered 90 kW (122 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, offering a balance of efficiency and accessible performance for compact vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Polo Mk5 and Ibiza Mk4, the BMA was engineered for responsive urban driving and efficient highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and catalytic conversion, allowing it to meet Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is potential failure of the timing chain tensioner, which can lead to chain rattle or, in severe cases, timing jump. This issue, noted in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Bulletins, is often linked to extended oil change intervals or use of incorrect oil specification.
Volkswagen
Production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9101).
The Volkswagen BMA is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (2008-2015). It combines gasoline direct injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver brisk low-end response and good fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it provides a compelling blend of performance and efficiency for its vehicle class.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 90 kW (122 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline Direct Injection (TSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (IHI or Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 110 kg |
The TSI system provides strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or 1-year oil change intervals using VW 502 00/504 00 specification oil to prevent timing chain tensioner wear and turbo degradation. Extended oil intervals or incorrect oil viscosity are the primary causes of premature tensioner failure. The high-pressure fuel pump is generally reliable. Carbon buildup on intake valves is less severe than on earlier FSI engines due to the addition of port injection in the TSI system.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification oil (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). Longlife 504 00 allows for extended service intervals.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2008–2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9101).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output figures are for standard tune; remapping is possible but may stress the turbo and clutch (Volkswagen SSP 861).
Volkswagen Service Technical Literature: SSP 861, SSP 324
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9101)
The Volkswagen BMA was used across Volkswagen's A05 (PQ25) platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific ECU mapping for the Polo. 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, near the transmission flange. The BMA code is distinct from the similar BMY (77kW) and CAVF (later 1.2 TSI) codes. Visually, it features a plastic intake manifold and a centrally mounted high-pressure fuel pump driven off the camshaft. The ECU is typically a Bosch MED17.5.5. Service parts, particularly for the turbocharger and timing chain, are often shared with other 1.4 TSI variants but require verification of the specific engine code.
The BMA's primary long-term maintenance concern is timing chain tensioner failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to extended oil change intervals. Volkswagen internal service data indicates a significant portion of failures occur after 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show related noise complaints are common in high-mileage examples. Neglecting oil changes makes timely tensioner replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2008-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BMA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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