The Volkswagen YS Petrol is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It features multi‑point fuel injection (MPI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16‑valve configuration. In standard form it delivered 77 kW (105 PS) at 5,800 rpm with 155 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, prioritizing simplicity, serviceability, and cost‑effective ownership.
Fitted to entry‑level variants of the Mk6 Golf, Mk5 Jetta, Polo, and Vento, the YS Petrol was engineered for emerging markets and budget‑conscious buyers seeking dependable urban mobility. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic throttle control, allowing all units to meet Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the exhaust camshaft lobes under extended oil change intervals, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2012‑09‑03. This issue stems from marginal lubrication film strength during high‑temperature operation. From 2013, revised camshaft metallurgy and updated oil pump relief valve settings were introduced to enhance durability.
Volkswagen
Production years 2010–2016 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5892).
The Volkswagen YS Petrol is a 1,598 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engineered for compact and entry-level vehicles (2010–2016). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC valvetrain to deliver predictable throttle response and straightforward maintenance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it emphasizes reliability and low running costs over performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 86.9 mm | |
| Power output | 77 kW (105 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPI (multi-point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; durable design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The naturally aspirated layout provides linear power delivery and minimal complexity but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00 oil to protect camshaft lobes. Extended intervals or incorrect viscosity can accelerate exhaust cam wear, particularly in hot climates or stop-start driving. The MPI system avoids direct-injection carbon issues but remains sensitive to fuel quality affecting injector spray patterns. Post-2013 engines feature hardened camshafts and revised oil pump calibration per Volkswagen SIB 2012‑09‑03.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 specification (Volkswagen SIB 2012‑09‑03). Not interchangeable with ACEA A3/B4 alone.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2010–2016 YS Petrol engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5892).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output assumes RON 95 fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. V-7301).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V-7210, V-7215, SIB 2012‑09‑03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5892)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Volkswagen YS Petrol was used across Volkswagen's Mk5/Mk6 platforms with transverse mounting and deployed extensively in emerging markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Vento and modified cooling shrouds in the Polo—and from 2013 the facelifted Golf adopted updated camshaft metallurgy, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filler neck (Volkswagen TIS V-7220). The full code reads 'YS' followed by a production sequence. Pre-2013 units use camshaft part number 036 109 021 B; post-2013 use 036 109 021 D with hardened exhaust lobes. Critical differentiation from CFNA/CSTA engines: YS has black plastic intake manifold without variable intake flaps and uses a single coil pack (not individual coils). Service parts require production date verification—camshaft kits for engines before 07/2013 are incompatible with later units due to lobe profile and oil pump calibration changes (Volkswagen SIB 2012‑09‑03).
The YS Petrol's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature or high-mileage applications. Volkswagen internal data from 2014 indicated a notable share of pre-2013 engines requiring camshaft replacement before 160,000 km, while UK DVSA records show elevated misfire-related MOT advisories in vehicles used for frequent short trips. Extended oil change intervals and low-quality oil increase lobe stress, making oil specification and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN YS.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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