The Volkswagen DPBA is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on the intake cam. In standard form it delivers 92 kW (125 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive urban performance and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Polo, and T-Cross, the DPBA was designed for drivers prioritising compact packaging, low fuel consumption, and smooth power delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 6 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe on the intake camshaft, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2024‑12. This issue is linked to marginal lubrication under frequent cold starts and extended oil change intervals. From 2016, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated oil specifications were introduced to mitigate wear.
Production years 2012–2019 meet Euro 6 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
The Volkswagen DPBA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2012–2019). It combines direct injection with a single turbocharger and variable intake timing to deliver brisk low‑rpm response and strong fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances urban agility with motorway refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (EN 228) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure pump with direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; low‑wear design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The DPBA delivers responsive urban performance with strong mid-range torque but requires strict adherence to VW 502 00/504 00 (5W-30) oil to protect the high-pressure fuel pump drive lobe on the intake camshaft. Extended oil change intervals or incorrect oil viscosity accelerate cam wear, leading to HPFP failure and costly repairs. Cold-start idling should be minimized, and oil changes performed every 15,000 km or annually. From 2016, camshafts with improved surface hardening were introduced; pre-2016 engines benefit from updated oil specs per SIB 2024‑12. Carbon buildup on intake valves is minimal due to port injection assist in later calibrations.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 (5W-30) specification (Volkswagen SIB 2024‑12). Not interchangeable with ACEA A3/B4 unless explicitly approved.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all DPBA production (2012–2019) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across EU markets (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 04E‑9030).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 04E‑9012, 04E‑9025, SIB 2024‑12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8912)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen DPBA was used across Volkswagen's PQ25/MQB A0 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and SEAT under the modular transverse matrix. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Polo and modified coolant routing in the T-Cross—and from 2016 the updated camshaft metallurgy, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil pump (Volkswagen TIS 04E‑8801). The 7th VIN digit for DPBA-equipped vehicles is typically 'C' or 'D' depending on model. DPBA is visually distinguished by its black plastic intake manifold with integrated charge air cooler and single turbocharger. Critical differentiation from EA211 evo engines: DPBA uses Bosch MED17.5.5 ECU with round OBD port; later variants use MED17.5.25. Camshaft part number 04E 109 021 AB indicates pre-2016 build; post-2016 units use 04E 109 021 AC (Volkswagen SIB 2024‑12).
The DPBA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive lobe wear on the intake camshaft, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent cold starts and infrequent oil changes. Volkswagen internal field data from 2023 indicated a measurable uptick in camshaft replacements before 100,000 km in urban fleets, while UK DVSA MOT records show low incidence of emissions-related failures due to robust three-way catalyst design. Short-trip driving without proper warm-up cycles increases cam stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012–2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DPBA.
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