The Volkswagen BMD is a 1,968 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features a common rail direct injection system, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form, it delivered 103 kW (140 PS), providing strong low-rpm torque ideal for relaxed motorway cruising and everyday drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Mk5 Volkswagen Golf, Jetta, and Eos, the BMD engine was engineered for refined efficiency and responsive performance. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), aligning with Euro 4 standards.
One documented concern is potential failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), which can lead to drivability issues. This characteristic, addressed in later EA189 engines, is linked to fuel lubricity and internal component wear. Volkswagen issued technical service bulletins outlining inspection and replacement procedures for affected units.
Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Volkswagen BMD is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2005-2010). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances everyday performance with 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 | Common rail direct injection (Bosch) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | Not publicly specified in SSP/ETKA |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 507 00 oil to prevent turbo and chain wear. The Bosch common-rail system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to protect the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP). HPFP failure, indicated by hard starting or loss of power, is a known issue; replacement with the latest OEM-specified unit is required. EGR and DPF systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). This low-ash oil is critical for DPF longevity.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2010 BMD engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across documented applications (Volkswagen SSP 337).
Volkswagen Service Training Programme (SSP 337): '2.0l TDI Engine (BMM/BMN/BMD)'
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
Volkswagen Electronic Parts Catalogue (ETKA)
The Volkswagen BMD was used across Volkswagen's A5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations and was not licensed to other manufacturers. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat surface of the cylinder block, near the transmission flange on the intake side (Volkswagen SSP 337). 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 BMD can be identified by its plastic intake manifold and the "2.0 TDI" badge on the engine cover. It shares its basic architecture with the BMM and BMN engines; differentiation is confirmed by the specific engine code stamping and ECU software.
The BMD's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using poor-quality fuel. Internal Volkswagen quality reports indicated a notable rate of HPFP replacements under warranty, while UK DVSA data links DPF-related issues to infrequent highway driving. Adherence to fuel quality and service intervals is critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BMD.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
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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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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