The Volkswagen BSF is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2010. It features a cast iron block, aluminium cylinder head, and double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing. This engine, part of the EA113 family, delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, providing smooth, linear power delivery.
Fitted to models such as the Mk5 Golf, Jetta, and Touran, the BSF was engineered for refined daily driving with an emphasis on fuel efficiency and low-end responsiveness. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control and sequential fuel injection, meeting Euro 4 standards for its production period.
One documented concern is premature failure of the plastic intake manifold flaps and associated linkages, which can cause rough running and vacuum leaks. This issue, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2027501, is often linked to material fatigue under prolonged heat cycles. Volkswagen later introduced revised, more robust manifold components.
Volkswagen
Production years 2005–2010 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Volkswagen BSF is a 1,984 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact MPVs and sedans (2005-2010). It combines port fuel injection with a dual-cam variable valve timing system to deliver smooth, predictable power. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes drivability and fuel economy over outright performance.
| 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) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPI (Multi-Point Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires periodic replacement) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The naturally aspirated design offers predictable, linear power but lacks the low-end torque of turbocharged variants. Strict adherence to the 120,000 km or 5-year timing belt replacement interval is critical to prevent catastrophic engine failure. VW 502 00/504 00 specification oil is required for optimal engine protection. The plastic intake manifold flaps are a known failure point; symptoms include rough idle and vacuum leaks. Replacement with the updated manifold (per VW STB 2027501) is recommended if failure occurs.
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 production years (2005-2010) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output is consistent across documented applications (Volkswagen SSP 324).
Volkswagen Service Technical Literature: SSP 324, ETKA Doc. 03C 103 012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
Volkswagen Group Powertrain Specifications (PT-2018)
The Volkswagen BSF was used across Volkswagen's A5 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-standardized engine mounts for the Golf and reinforced subframes for the Touran-creating minor service part variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Volkswagen SSP 324). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'F' for vehicles equipped with the BSF engine. Visually, it can be identified by its black plastic intake manifold and the '2.0 FSI' badge on applicable models. Critical differentiation from the turbocharged BPE: The BSF is naturally aspirated and produces 150 PS, while the BPE is turbocharged and produces 200 PS. Service parts, particularly for the intake manifold and timing system, are specific to the naturally aspirated EA113 variants.
The BSF's primary reliability risk is failure of the plastic intake manifold flaps and linkages, with elevated incidence in vehicles with high mileage. Internal Volkswagen data indicates a significant number of failures occur post-100,000 km, while owner reports frequently cite this as a common repair. Neglecting the timing belt service remains a critical risk, making adherence to the manufacturer's interval essential.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2005-2010) and aggregated owner repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN BSF.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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