The Volkswagen DV is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It features multi-point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 20‑valve cylinder head layout. In standard form it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 195 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth high‑rpm power delivery and refined cruising.
Fitted to models such as the Mk4 Golf, B5 Passat, and New Beetle, the DV was designed for drivers prioritising linear throttle response, acoustic refinement, and mechanical simplicity. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and secondary air injection, meeting Euro 3 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic camshaft adjusters, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2003‑45. This issue is linked to marginal oil pressure at high engine speeds and extended oil change intervals. From 2003, revised adjuster internals and updated oil specifications were introduced to mitigate wear.
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3421).
The Volkswagen DV is a 1,984 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2000–2005). It combines 20‑valve DOHC architecture with multi-point injection to deliver linear power and high-rpm smoothness. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances performance character with regulatory compliance of its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (EN 228) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) | |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI (multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; hydraulic adjusters) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The DV delivers smooth, high-revving performance ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to VW 502 00 (5W-40) oil to protect hydraulic camshaft adjusters. Extended oil change intervals or incorrect viscosity reduce oil pressure at high RPM, accelerating adjuster wear and causing timing instability. Cold-start idling should be minimized, and oil changes performed every 15,000 km or annually. From 2003, revised adjuster internals were introduced; pre-2003 engines benefit from updated oil specs per SIB 2003‑45. Carbon buildup is minimal due to port injection design.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 (5W-40) specification (Volkswagen SIB 2003‑45). Not interchangeable with ACEA A3/B4 unless explicitly approved.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all DV production (2000–2005) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3421).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across EU markets (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 06A‑9030).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 06A‑9012, 06A‑9025, SIB 2003‑45
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3421)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen DV was used across Volkswagen's PQ34/B5 platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Passat and modified coolant routing in the Golf—and from 2003 the updated camshaft adjusters, 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 06A‑8801). The 7th VIN digit for DV-equipped vehicles is typically 'F' or 'G' depending on model. DV is visually distinguished by its silver valve cover with '20V' badge and absence of turbo plumbing. Critical differentiation from AGZ/ATQ: DV uses Bosch Motronic 5.9 ECU with round OBD port; ATQ uses ME7.5. Camshaft adjuster part number 06A 109 087 A indicates pre-2003 build; post-2003 units use 06A 109 087 B (Volkswagen SIB 2003‑45).
The DV's primary reliability risk is hydraulic camshaft adjuster wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent high-RPM use and infrequent oil changes. Volkswagen internal field data from 2004 indicated a measurable uptick in timing-related faults before 120,000 km in performance-oriented fleets, while UK DVSA MOT records show low incidence of emissions-related failures due to robust three-way catalyst design. Extended oil change intervals increase adjuster stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2000–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DV.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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