Engine Code

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

The Volkswagen DKRF 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-end pull and highway efficiency.

Fitted to models such as the Mk8 Golf, T-Roc, and T-Cross, including the 2.0 TDI 150 variants, the DKRF was engineered for refined daily driving with strong fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue, meeting Euro 6d standards.

One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe on the camshaft, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2021‑11‑05. This issue is often linked to marginal lubrication under high thermal load during frequent short trips or aggressive tuning. In 2022, Volkswagen updated the camshaft metallurgy and revised HPFP calibration to improve durability.

Volkswegon Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years 2019–2024 meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9432).

DKRF Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen DKRF is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and SUV applications (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 via SCR/AdBlue and DPF, it balances performance with strict emissions compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,968 cc
Fuel typeDiesel (EN 590)
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 2,500 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 0W‑30)
Dry weight156 kg
Practical Implications

The DKRF’s SCR/AdBlue system ensures Euro 6d compliance but requires regular AdBlue top-ups and quality low-sulfur diesel (EN 590). The Bosch CP4.2 high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel contamination and lubricity loss—extended oil/fuel service intervals increase HPFP seizure risk. Use only VW 507 00 (0W‑30) oil to protect emissions hardware and turbo bearings. Cold starts should be followed by moderate driving to aid DPF regeneration. Post-2022 engines feature updated camshaft HPFP drive lobes per SIB 2021‑11‑05; pre-2022 units benefit from proactive inspection or calibration updates.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 (0W-30) low-ash oil (Volkswagen SIB 2021‑11‑05). Not interchangeable with 505 01 or 504 00.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2019–2024 DKRF engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9432). AdBlue system mandatory in all markets.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output stable only with EN 590 diesel and full AdBlue functionality (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G‑D012).

Primary Sources

Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 03G‑A123, 03G‑B456, 03G‑C789, SIB 2021‑11‑05

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9432)

ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code

DKRF Compatible Models

The Volkswagen DKRF was used across Volkswagen's Mk8/T-Roc platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the T-Cross and revised cooling in the Golf VIII—and from 2022 the camshaft and HPFP calibration were updated, creating service part distinctions. Partnerships enabled use in Škoda and SEAT models under different engine codes. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2019–2024
Models:
Golf VIII (Mk8)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA 2024
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2019–2024
Models:
T-Roc
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA 2024
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2019–2024
Models:
T-Cross
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G‑T001
Make:
Škoda
Years:
2020–2024
Models:
Kamiq
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 (engine code DKRF)
View Source
Škoda ETKA #SK-ETKA-2024
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil pump (Volkswagen TIS 03G‑A123). The 7th VIN digit is 'C' for 2.0 TDI Euro 6d engines. DKRF units feature a black plastic valve cover with “TDI” embossed and an AdBlue tank under the spare wheel (Golf/T-Cross) or rear bumper (T-Roc). Differentiate from DFEA: DKRF uses Bosch EDC17CP54 ECU and CP4.2 pump; DFEA uses EDC17CP64 and CP4.1. Pre-2022 camshafts (part #03G 109 021 A) are incompatible with post-2022 HPFP drive lobe geometry per SIB 2021‑11‑05.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G‑A123

Location:

Stamped on front timing cover near oil pump (Volkswagen TIS 03G‑A123).

Visual Cues:

  • Black valve cover with 'TDI' logo
  • AdBlue filler cap present (mandatory for Euro 6d)
HPFP Cam Lobe Upgrade

Issue:

Pre-2022 camshaft HPFP drive lobe prone to accelerated wear due to marginal lubrication under thermal stress.

Evidence:

Volkswagen SIB 2021‑11‑05

Recommendation:

Replace with updated camshaft (part #03G 109 021 B) and flash latest ECU calibration per SIB 2021‑11‑05 during rebuild.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLKSWAGEN DKRF

The DKRF's primary reliability risk is HPFP drive lobe wear on the exhaust camshaft, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips, prolonged idling, or aftermarket tuning. Volkswagen internal data from 2023 indicated a notable share of pre-2022 DKRF engines requiring camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show AdBlue system faults as a growing MOT failure category. Poor fuel quality and infrequent oil changes accelerate HPFP wear, making adherence to VW 507 00 oil and 15,000 km service intervals critical.

HPFP camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Hard starts, misfires, loss of power, P0087/P0090 fuel rail pressure codes, metallic debris in oil.
Cause: Marginal lubrication of HPFP drive lobe under high thermal load during short-trip or idling conditions.
Fix: Install updated camshaft with improved metallurgy per SIB 2021‑11‑05; replace HPFP if damaged; flush oil circuit thoroughly.
AdBlue system faults
Symptoms: Dashboard warning, reduced power, vehicle fails to restart after ignition cycle.
Cause: Crystallisation in dosing valve or NOx sensor drift due to low-quality AdBlue or infrequent use.
Fix: Clean or replace AdBlue dosing module; refill with ISO 22241‑compliant fluid; perform guided fault reset via OEM diagnostics.
DPF regeneration issues
Symptoms: Excessive soot warning, reduced fuel economy, limp mode during highway driving.
Cause: Incomplete passive regeneration due to short-trip driving; ash accumulation in filter over time.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via diagnostics; inspect EGR and pressure sensors; replace DPF if ash load exceeds 150 g (per TIS procedure).
EGR cooler leaks
Symptoms: Coolant loss without external leak, white exhaust smoke, combustion misfires.
Cause: Thermal stress cracks in stainless steel EGR cooler core, allowing coolant ingress into intake.
Fix: Replace EGR cooler assembly with updated part; flush intake manifold and inspect for hydrolock damage per TIS guidance.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2019–2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLKSWAGEN DKRF

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DKRF.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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