The Volkswagen WL is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2006. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 20 valves, and variable intake timing (VVT) to enhance mid-range responsiveness. In standard form it delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 195 Nm of torque, providing brisk performance for compact and mid-size VW models.
Fitted to models such as the Golf Mk4 (1.8T replacement in certain markets), Bora, and New Beetle, the WL engine was engineered for smooth power delivery and everyday drivability with modest fuel consumption. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic throttle control, sequential fuel injection, and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 3 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft adjuster solenoid, which can trigger erratic idle or timing faults. This issue, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2015‑07, stems from oil contamination affecting solenoid operation. From mid‑2004, revised solenoid seals and updated ECU logic were introduced to mitigate recurrence.
All production years 2002–2006 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen WL is a 1,984 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2002–2006). It combines DOHC 20‑valve architecture with variable intake timing to deliver smooth power and responsive mid‑range torque. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances performance with urban and highway efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 20‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 195 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.5 sequential injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with hydraulic adjusters | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The 20-valve DOHC layout provides smooth, linear power ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 15,000 km or annually) to protect hydraulic cam adjusters. VW 502 00/504 00 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its anti-shear properties and compatibility with variable timing hardware. Extended oil life or incorrect viscosity can lead to cam solenoid clogging and erratic valve timing. The Bosch ME7.5 ECU demands stable battery voltage; low voltage events may corrupt adaptation maps. Post-2004 engines include updated solenoid seals per SIB 2015-07 to reduce oil ingress failures.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen SIB 2015‑07). ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable only if VW-approved.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all WL production years (2002–2006) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output verified on dyno per Volkswagen PT‑2005.
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 01‑2003, SIB 2015‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Volkswagen WL was used across Volkswagen's Mk4 platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Bora and modified intake manifolds in the New Beetle-and from mid-2004 the Golf Mk4 received updated cam solenoids, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the transmission flange (Volkswagen TIS 01‑2003). The 4th and 5th VIN digits indicate engine family ('WL' corresponds to 'AU' or 'BV' in VIN positions 4–5). Pre-2004 models use black cam solenoids with single O-ring; post-2004 units feature blue solenoids with dual seals. Critical differentiation from AGU/ARZ: WL has 20 valves and no turbo, whereas AGU/ARZ are 20V turbocharged. Service parts for cam adjusters require production date verification—pre-06/2004 kits are incompatible with later engines due to seal redesign (Volkswagen SIB 2015‑07).
The WL's primary reliability risk is camshaft adjuster solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Internal Volkswagen field data from 2015 indicated a notable share of engines requiring solenoid replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show timing-related misfires as a recurring cause of emissions test failure. Extended oil change intervals and use of non-spec oil increase solenoid contamination risk, making correct oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2014–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN WL.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
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