The Volkswagen BME is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features gasoline direct injection (FSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on the intake cam. This engine, part of the EA113 family, was designed for refined, linear power delivery, with outputs typically rated at 110 kW (150 PS) and torque figures around 200 Nm.
Fitted to models such as the Mk5 Golf, Jetta, and Eos, the BME was engineered for smooth, reliable everyday driving with good high-rpm refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through its precise FSI fuel system and secondary air injection, allowing it to meet Euro 4 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on the intake valves, a common trait of early FSI engines without port injection. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen service documentation, can lead to rough idle and misfires. The problem stems from the lack of fuel washing over the valves, allowing crankcase vapors to deposit carbon.
Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9101).
The Volkswagen BME is a 1,984 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2005-2010). It combines gasoline direct injection (FSI) with variable intake timing to deliver smooth, linear power and high-rpm refinement. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances responsive performance with predictable drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (FSI), Bosch MED9.5 ECU | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30 or 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 145 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, linear power ideal for relaxed driving but requires premium (95 RON minimum, 98 RON recommended) fuel for optimal performance and to prevent knocking. The FSI system necessitates periodic intake valve cleaning (every 60,000-80,000 km) to remove carbon deposits that cause rough running. Oil changes must use VW 502 00 / 504 00 specification oil every 15,000 km or annually to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and timing chain. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected if any noise is heard.
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 4 certification applies to all BME engines (2005-2010) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9101).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output and efficiency benefit from 98 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 2043-01).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 2043-01, 2043-02
Volkswagen Electronic Technical Catalogue (ETKA)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9101)
The Volkswagen BME was used across Volkswagen platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds and ECU mappings for various models-creating minor interchange limits. 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 2043-01). The 8th digit of the VIN often corresponds to the engine code for Volkswagen Group vehicles. The BME is visually identified by its FSI badge on the engine cover and its specific intake manifold design. Critical differentiation from turbocharged FSI (e.g., BPY, CCTA) engines: The BME lacks a turbocharger and intercooler piping. Always verify the engine code stamp and cross-reference with ETKA for exact part compatibility.
The BME's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on intake valves, with elevated incidence in low-mileage or short-trip vehicles. Internal Volkswagen service data indicated this was a frequent cause of customer complaints for rough idle, while UK DVSA records show it as a common reason for emissions test failures. Infrequent high-RPM driving and low-quality fuel accelerate deposits, making preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BME.
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.
