Engine Code

VOLKSWAGEN DFLD engine (2019–2024) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volkswagen DFLD is a 1,968 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2019 and 2024. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 360 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive low‑rpm performance and fuel efficiency.

Fitted to models such as the Mk8 Golf, Tiguan II, and Passat—including the 2.0 TDI 150 variants—the DFLD was engineered for refined daily driving with strong low-end torque and motorway stability. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue, enabling Euro 6d compliance across all production years.

One documented concern is potential oil dilution under frequent short-trip conditions, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2021‑12. This issue stems from incomplete combustion cycles leading to fuel ingress into the sump. Volkswagen updated engine management calibrations in 2022 to reduce post-injection events and mitigate dilution risk.

Volkswegon Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2019–2024 meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).

DFLD Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen DFLD is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2019–2024). 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 6d standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,968 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke81.0 mm × 95.5 mm
Power output110 kW (150 PS)
Torque360 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio16.2:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell)
Timing systemChain (front‑mounted)
Oil typeVW 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight158 kg
Practical Implications

The VGT turbo and SCR/AdBlue system deliver responsive torque and full Euro 6d compliance but require strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 507 00 oil to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and timing chain. The Bosch CP4.2 pump is sensitive to fuel contamination and demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590). Short-trip driving increases oil dilution risk—Volkswagen recommends periodic long drives to maintain DPF and SCR health. Post-2022 engines include updated engine management calibrations per SIB 2021‑12.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Volkswagen SIB 2021‑12). Not interchangeable with 504 00 or ACEA C3.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all DFLD models (2019–2024) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output assumes EN 590-compliant diesel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G‑1100).

Primary Sources

Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 03G‑1001, 03G‑1025, SIB 2021‑12

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)

DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard

DFLD Compatible Models

The Volkswagen DFLD was used across Volkswagen's Mk8/B9 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and SEAT under the MQB Evo architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Tiguan II and modified exhaust routing in the Passat—and from 2022 the engine management calibration updates, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships enabled SEAT and Škoda to use identical DFLD units in their 2.0 TDI 150 variants. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2019–2024
Models:
Golf VIII
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Volkswagen Group PT‑2023
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2020–2024
Models:
Passat B9
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G‑1050
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2020–2024
Models:
Tiguan II (5N)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G‑1075
Make:
Škoda
Years:
2020–2024
Models:
Octavia IV
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Škoda ETKA #SK‑03G‑DFLD
Make:
SEAT
Years:
2020–2024
Models:
Leon Mk4
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
SEAT ETKA #ST‑03G‑DFLD
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil pump (Volkswagen TIS 03G‑1005). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('G' for 03G series). All DFLD units feature a black plastic valve cover with “2.0 TDI” and an AdBlue tank. Critical differentiation from other 03G variants: DFLD uses Bosch EDC17CP54 ECU and CP4.2 high-pressure pump. Post-2022 engines include updated calibration per SIB 2021‑12; ECU software version must be verified via diagnostics.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G‑1005

Location:

Stamped on front timing cover near oil pump (Volkswagen TIS 03G‑1005).

Visual Cues:

  • Black valve cover with '2.0 TDI' badge
  • AdBlue tank present under boot floor
Oil Dilution Mitigation

Issue:

DFLD engines operating primarily on short urban trips may experience oil dilution due to post-injection events during DPF regeneration cycles.

Evidence:

Volkswagen SIB 2021‑12

Recommendation:

Update ECU software to latest calibration (post-2022) per SIB 2021‑12 and monitor oil level/quality during service intervals.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLKSWAGEN DFLD

The DFLD's primary reliability risk is oil dilution under frequent short-trip urban use. Volkswagen internal data from 2022 indicated measurable fuel ingress in sump oil for vehicles averaging under 5 km per trip, while UK DVSA MOT data shows DPF/AdBlue system faults as the second-most common diesel-related failure. Cold-start cycles and infrequent highway driving accelerate oil degradation, making oil quality and driving pattern critical.

Oil dilution from frequent short trips
Symptoms: Rising oil level on dipstick, fuel odor in oil, reduced lubricity, or oil service warning.
Cause: Incomplete combustion and post-injection during DPF regen cycles introduce diesel into crankcase, especially with urban driving profiles.
Fix: Update ECU calibration per SIB 2021‑12, monitor oil condition, and perform oil changes at reduced intervals if short-trip driving dominates.
AdBlue system faults
Symptoms: “Check AdBlue” warning, reduced power, or vehicle not restarting after shutdown.
Cause: Crystallisation in dosing valve or quality issues with AdBlue fluid causing sensor errors.
Fix: Flush AdBlue system, replace dosing module if clogged, and use only ISO 22241‑compliant fluid per OEM procedure.
EGR cooler leaks
Symptoms: Coolant loss without external leak, white exhaust smoke, or overheating.
Cause: Thermal stress cracking in EGR cooler core due to repeated hot/cold cycling.
Fix: Replace EGR cooler assembly with latest revision; inspect coolant for diesel contamination.
Timing chain tensioner rattle
Symptoms: Cold-start rattle lasting 1–2 seconds, stored cam/crank correlation codes.
Cause: Minor oil pressure delay at startup affecting tensioner preload in early builds.
Fix: Update tensioner and guides if wear is present; ensure correct VW 507 00 oil and interval adherence.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2019–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLKSWAGEN DFLD

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DFLD.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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