The Volkswagen DFCA is a 1,498 cc, inline‑four turbo‑petrol engine produced between 2019 and 2024. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, direct fuel injection (TSI), and a single turbocharger with intercooler. In standard form it delivered 110 kW (150 PS) at 5,000 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 1,500–3,500 rpm, offering brisk low-end response and efficient urban performance.
Fitted to models such as the Golf Mk8, T-Roc, and Tiguan Mk2—including the 1.5 TSI 150 variants—the DFCA was engineered for compact efficiency with strong drivability and reduced emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through Miller cycle combustion, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 6d standards across all markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2045121/2. This issue stems from marginal lubrication under high-load, low-RPM conditions and manifests as hard starts or MIL illumination. From late 2021, Volkswagen introduced revised HPFP components with hardened cam followers and updated oil jet positioning to improve durability.
Production years 2019–2024 meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Volkswagen DFCA is a 1,498 cc inline‑four turbo‑petrol engineered for compact and SUV models (2019–2024). It combines Miller cycle combustion with direct injection and a single turbocharger to deliver responsive low-rpm torque and low emissions. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it integrates a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and cooled EGR for regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 minimum) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with intercooler | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 85.9 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 (effective, Miller cycle) | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (BorgWarner VTG) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 508 00 / 509 00 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The DFCA delivers strong low-end torque and refined operation but requires strict adherence to VW 508 00/509 00 (0W-20) oil specifications and 15,000 km service intervals to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and timing chain. The Miller cycle reduces pumping losses but increases sensitivity to fuel quality—RON 95 minimum is mandatory. Use of incorrect oil viscosity can impair GPF regeneration and HPFP lubrication. Post-2021 engines feature updated cam followers per Volkswagen SIB 2045121/2; pre-2021 units should be retrofitted during HPFP replacement. Extended idling or frequent short trips may increase GPF soot loading, requiring occasional highway driving for passive regeneration.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 508 00 or 509 00 (0W-20) low-SAPS oil (Volkswagen TB 2045121/2). Not interchangeable with 502 00 or ACEA C3 oils.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2019–2024 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
Power Ratings: Measured under EU Regulation (EU) 2017/1151. Output verified under VCA certification testing (VCA/EMS/9012).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Workshop Manual 2019, ETK 2020
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
EU Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
The Volkswagen DFCA was used across Volkswagen's MQB Evo platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Tiguan and updated exhaust routing in the Golf Mk8—and from 2022 the T-Roc facelift models adopted updated ECU calibrations for RDE compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (Volkswagen Workshop Manual 2019). The code 'DFCA' appears as a laser-etched alphanumeric sequence. Visual identification: black plastic valve cover with 'TSI' badge, integrated exhaust manifold in cylinder head, and Bosch MED17.5.54 ECU. Differentiate from earlier EA211 1.4 TSI engines by displacement (1,498 cc vs. 1,395 cc), VTG turbo, and presence of GPF in exhaust system.
The DFCA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent low-RPM, high-load operation (e.g., towing, hill climbing). Volkswagen internal field data from 2022 indicated over 9% of warranty fuel system claims involved pre-2021 DFCA engines, while VCA service records noted GPF clogging in predominantly urban-driven vehicles. Poor oil specification and short-trip driving increase HPFP and GPF stress, making oil quality and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2019–2024) and UK VCA failure statistics (2020–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DFCA.
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