Engine Code

VOLKSWAGEN BRK engine (2005–2010) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volkswagen BRK 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 delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, with its high-pressure direct injection system enabling efficient combustion and strong mid-range response.

Fitted to models such as the Mk5 Golf, Jetta, and Touran, the BRK was engineered for refined, economical daily driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel metering and secondary air injection, allowing adherence to Euro 4 standards across its production run.

One documented characteristic is sensitivity to fuel quality and oil specification, as noted in Volkswagen's Technical Service Bulletin 2028608. The FSI system relies on precise high-pressure injection; using fuel below RON 95 or incorrect oil can lead to carbon buildup and injector issues over time.

Volkswegon Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).

BRK Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen BRK is a 1,984 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact MPVs and sedans (2005-2010). It combines gasoline direct injection (FSI) with variable intake timing to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes fuel efficiency and low emissions for its era.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,984 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationNaturally Aspirated
Bore × stroke82.5 mm × 92.8 mm
Power output110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque200 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
Fuel systemGasoline Direct Injection (FSI), Bosch MED9.5 ECU
Emissions standardEuro 4
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven (timing chain)
Oil typeVW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W-40)
Dry weightNot Available
Practical Implications

The naturally aspirated FSI design provides smooth, predictable power but is sensitive to fuel and oil quality. Using fuel below RON 95 or non-specified oil can accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves and injectors, leading to rough running. Adhering to 15,000 km oil change intervals with VW 502 00/504 00 oil is critical for injector and chain longevity. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected if a rattle is heard at startup. The variable intake timing system enhances efficiency but can develop solenoid faults over time.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). ACEA A3/B4 is the minimum acceptable standard.

Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all 2005–2010 BRK engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS 2028608).

Primary Sources

Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Doc 2028608

Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue: Doc 03C 103 088

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)

BRK Compatible Models

The Volkswagen BRK was used across Volkswagen's A5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-slightly different engine mounts for the Touran-but no major facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2005–2009
Models:
Golf Mk5 (1K)
Variants:
2.0 FSI
View Source
Volkswagen Group PT-2010
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2005–2010
Models:
Jetta Mk5 (1K)
Variants:
2.0 FSI
View Source
Volkswagen Group PT-2010
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2006–2010
Models:
Touran (1T)
Variants:
2.0 FSI
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA Doc. 03C 103 089
Make:
Skoda
Years:
2006–2009
Models:
Octavia Mk2 (1Z)
Variants:
2.0 FSI
View Source
Skoda ETKA Doc. 03C 103 090
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, just below the intake manifold (Volkswagen TIS 2028608). The 8th digit of the VIN for Golf/Jetta is '1' for 2.0L FSI engines. Visually, the BRK can be identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the "2.0 FSI" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from the turbocharged BPC: BRK lacks a turbocharger and associated plumbing. The ECU part number (e.g., 03C 906 032) is also a definitive identifier.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Volkswagen TIS Doc. 2028608

Location:

Stamped on the front of the cylinder block, below the intake manifold (Volkswagen TIS 2028608).

Visual Cues:

  • Black plastic intake manifold.
  • '2.0 FSI' badge on the engine cover.
  • Absence of turbocharger and intercooler piping.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Volkswagen ETKA Docs 03C 103 088, 03C 103 089

Intake Manifold:

The intake manifold for the Touran (part no. 1T0 129 711 C) is different from the Golf/Jetta (part no. 1K0 129 711 F) due to space constraints.

E C U Compatibility:

ECUs are generally interchangeable between BRK engines in Golf, Jetta, and Touran, but require coding for the specific vehicle using VAS/VCDS.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLKSWAGEN BRK

The BRK's primary reliability consideration is carbon buildup on intake valves, inherent to its FSI design. Volkswagen TIS 2028608 acknowledges this as a characteristic requiring periodic maintenance, while owner data suggests it can lead to drivability issues if low-quality fuel or oil is used. Extended oil change intervals accelerate carbon formation, making proactive cleaning and correct oil specification critical.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, cold start misfires, hesitation under acceleration, reduced power, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Lack of fuel washing over intake valves due to direct injection; oil vapor from PCV system deposits carbon.
Fix: Perform walnut shell/media blasting of intake valves per OEM procedure; consider installing an oil catch can to reduce future buildup.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start, long cranking times, sudden loss of power, illuminated check engine light (fuel pressure codes).
Cause: Wear or failure of the cam-driven high-pressure fuel pump, often exacerbated by low-quality fuel or infrequent oil changes.
Fix: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump with the latest OEM-specified unit; ensure cam follower is inspected and replaced if worn.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Distinctive rattle or whine from the front of the engine on cold start, which may quieten as oil pressure builds.
Cause: Wear of the hydraulic timing chain tensioner, leading to slack in the chain and potential for jumped timing or damage.
Fix: Replace the timing chain tensioner and guides with updated OEM parts; inspect chain for stretch and replace if necessary.
Variable intake timing solenoid failure
Symptoms: Loss of low-end torque, rough idle, illuminated check engine light (camshaft position codes), reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Wear or sticking of the variable valve timing solenoid, often due to oil sludge or electrical failure.
Fix: Replace the faulty variable timing solenoid; ensure oil is clean and at correct specification to prevent recurrence.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLKSWAGEN BRK

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BRK.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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