Motors wv. The most reliable Volkswagen gasoline engines according to owner reviews

The Volkswagen concern (VW) is one of the world's most powerful automakers after the legendary General Motors. It includes quite a few well-known car brands for which the company produces and installs engines.

Description of engines

Volkswagen engines offer power comparable to reliability. The range of power units is quite extensive. Engines produced by VW are considered the best in Europe and have a good reputation even in America. Thus, the company supplies engines not only to its own brand of cars, but also to such well-known brands as Audi, Skoda, Porshe, Seat, Beantly and even sports cars - Lamborgini and Bugatti.

As you can see, power units from the concern have become quite widespread throughout Europe. Volkswagen produces engines - naturally aspirated, turbocharged, diesel and others. All of them have gained great popularity among car enthusiasts. different countries thanks to its reliability.

The only drawback of engines is quite complex repairs, which can only be properly carried out at specialized automotive repair stations.

Volkswagen engine specifications

The standard Volkswagen engine is a four-cylinder unit with an overhead camshaft and water cooling. Typically, the cylinder block, its head and pistons are made of aluminum alloy, and the crankshaft with three support bearings is made of forged stamped steel.

Volkswagen engines have the following technical specifications:

  • fuel consumed - gasoline or diesel fuel;
  • cooling system - air or liquid;
  • type of cylinder arrangement - in-line, V-shaped or VR;
  • volume - from 1 to 5 l;
  • power - from 25 to 420 hp. With.;
  • fuel consumption - from 3 to 10 liters per 100 km;
  • number of cylinders - from 3 to 10;
  • piston diameter - up to 81 mm;
  • number of working cycles - 2 or 4;
  • type of mixture ignition - spark ignition or compression ignition;
  • number of camshafts - 1, 2 or 4;
  • the number of valves in the combustion chamber is 2 or 4.

The perfect combination of performance and steel savings gasoline engines TSI. Even with low speeds They deliver maximum torque, and the carefully calibrated combination of piston movement, turbocharging and direct injection ensures smooth fuel delivery.

Volkswagen gasoline engines are characterized by:

  • formation of the fuel mixture in the intake manifold or directly in the combustion chamber;
  • ignition of the mixture from spark plugs;
  • uniform combustion of the mixture;
  • quantitative adjustment of the mixture;
  • four-stroke principle of operation with two revolutions of the crankshaft at an angle of 720°.

Volkswagen TDI diesel engines with turbocharging and direct fuel injection are characterized by:

CFNA Engine Specifications

PARAMETER MEANING

The engine is installed on VW Polo Sedan, VW Jetta, Skoda Fabia, Skoda Octavia, Skoda Rapid, Skoda Roomster.

Table: technical characteristics of Volkswagen gasoline engines

Code Volume, cm 3 Modification Power, kW Power, l. With. Car model Start of production, year Discontinued, year
1 1100 F4 18 25 Type 1 1947 1954
1 1200 F4 22 30 Type 1 1954 1960
1 1500 F4 31 42 Type 2 1963 1964
1 1500 F4 33 45 Type 3 1961 1965
1V 1600 I4 45 60 Golf, Jetta 1989 1992
2H 1800 I4 73 98 Golf Cabrio 1989 1993
ABS 1791 I4 66 90 Golf, Vento, Passat 1991 1994
ADR 1781 I4 92 125 Passat 1996 1999
ADX 1300 I4 41 55 Polo 1994 1995
AGZ 2324 V5 110 150 Golf, Bora, Passat 1997 2001
A.J.H. 1781 I4T 110 150 Polo, Golf, Jetta, Passat 2001 2004
APQ 1400 I4 45 60 Polo, Golf, Vento 1995 1998
AWM 1781 I4T 125 170 Jetta, New Beetle, Passat 2002 2005
BAN 5998 V12 309 420 Phaeton 2002 -
BAR 4163 V8 257 349 Touareg 2006 -

In the table, the engines are located according to the letter code. Engines for the VW Beetle and VW Transporter produced before 1965 did not have a letter code. They are indicated in the table by code 1.

Gasoline engines

Among gasoline engines, it is difficult to single out one that will clearly win the “most reliable Volkswagen engine” category. One of the most common engines among those that deserve to be considered the most reliable is a two-liter engine AWM with 140 hp. and torque 165 Nm . This engine has found its application in many Volkswagen cars, for example, Tiguan, Jetta and many others. The motor is notable for its excellent performance when driving on any surface. Among drivers there was also favorable word of mouth about this engine in the light that when using it it is convenient and comfortable to drive “uphill”, that is, it behaves well at high speeds, and is also quite good at idling after traveling a long distance.

It should be noted that the very first model of this engine appeared back in 1997, and since then this engine has transformed from a 1.2 liter engine into a completely powerful and reliable unit that you want to use. Among the obvious advantages of this unit, decent behavior, good dynamics, low fuel consumption (9.5 liters in the city), and relatively low repair costs stand out most clearly.

V6

Where would we be without a V6 engine in this rating? This is the engine for a long time was considered the most reliable and desirable for drivers, due to its excellent characteristics . First of all, the use of this engine guarantees excellent driving dynamics. Many fans of “driving” on the roads are very fond of this engine for its power - 170 hp, which allows you to accelerate quite well and quickly on the same Tiguan. Also, this power unit is quite attractive for those who often travel outside the city, because it is when driving on the highways that fuel consumption decreases - about 9 liters! In the city, consumption is also low - up to 7.5 liters.

Also, this engine cannot be called highly susceptible to breakdowns and malfunctions, because even if the car is not driven too calmly, the engine still behaves well and does not ask for anything extra. You can easily drive 150,000 km on it, changing only the oil.

Experts tried to find flaws in this engine, but could not get to the bottom of anything, because the engine is actually virtually ideal. Yes, some characteristics, for example, acceleration, could be improved so that it would be considered almost racing, you can, of course, reduce the cost of repair work, but in general it is simply beautiful!

Six-cylinder ABU

Among its six-cylinder counterparts, it is the model that stands out most clearly ABU with a volume of 1.8 liters . This motor is distinguished by a rather simple design, without adding complex elements. It is this fact that attracts the attention of drivers, especially those who have recently started driving a car, because this particular engine is quite easy to understand and understand how it works and how to carry out repair work on the engines yourself alone. The engine is well balanced, and this can be understood by the fact that during operation there is no vibration of mechanisms and components.
This engine became widespread in the same way as many others, on Golf and Tiguan cars.

This engine is classified as one of the so-called “millionaires” - engines that can travel about a million kilometers without serious intervention. This is where the reliability of this unit really shines! Everything would be fine, but there is one “but”: the cost of repair work cannot be called even average - the “normative” indicators that spontaneously occurred in the field of drivers for car repairs, this engine exceeds, which acts as a fly in the ointment. However, with such reliability, especially if you drive calmly and don’t “drive”, you can drive with it for 10-15 years without strain and quite calmly, naturally, changing consumables on time.

Tuning a Volkswagen engine is carried out by analogy with other engines. So, there are two options for modifying the engine: software (the most common) and mechanical (popularly - boring and installing additional spare parts).

By software modification we mean chip tuning, which in turn is divided into two subgroups: chip soldering and programming of the electronic engine control unit. The first option should only be carried out by professionals at a specialized car service center, since the process is quite specific and requires in-depth knowledge of automotive electricals.

As for the second option, most motorists do it themselves. To do this, you will need a little knowledge or instructions found on the Internet, a special USB-Car cable and a laptop. Accordingly, you need to download the software.

Software chip tuning aimed at improving the required engine characteristics. So, motorists usually choose one of two options: reducing consumption or increasing power. At the same time, balanced chip tuning is used less frequently.

The manufacturer does not recommend chip tuning of its engines. But, as practice has shown, this kind of recommendations does not influence the opinions of drivers and therefore the company has specially released several official firmware for its power units, which are called Stage+.

The latest version for engines today is version 5. It allows you to select the necessary parameters at the time of programming the electronic engine control unit.

Oil change

Changing the oil is an essential operation for all engines. This is due to the fact that the lubricating fluid loses its technical and chemical qualities during operation. So, changing the oil in Volkswagen engines is quite simple if you follow the prescribed steps:


Contract engines

Any engine has a limited service life. After this resource expires, the car owner can:

  • make a major overhaul of the original engine;
  • purchase under contract in Europe or America and install a used engine.

The contract motor fully complies technical requirements, is a working unit dismantled from a similar car.

All contract engines undergo pre-sale inspection. Suppliers usually adjust all systems, do a test run and guarantee uninterrupted operation and a long service life. In addition to the contract engines, included technical documents, attachments and elements for installation.

Overhauling a car engine is not always advisable. Especially if this model has already been discontinued.

So, a friend of mine owned an original Volkswagen Golf 1.4 with a manual transmission from 1994. The car was used all year round and at any opportunity. Sometimes it was loaded to the limit. The old car had difficulty making it up hills with a not-so-new engine. The car, although compact, is quite roomy. Over the five years of ownership, I changed the clutch basket and release bearing. I perceived timing belts and rollers as consumables. I planned to change the pistons and do a major overhaul of the engine due to oil consumption and low thrust. But on one of the trips I didn’t keep track of the temperature and overheated the engine so much that the head turned. Repairs amounted to almost 80 percent of the car's cost. This is a high price for a used car, not counting the time spent on repairs, searching for original parts or identical analogues. Back then we had no idea about the possibility of replacing the engine with a complete set. Now we wouldn’t even think twice about it.

The advantages of an engine purchased under a contract are:

  • factory quality;
  • work on high-quality fuel;
  • slight wear;
  • long service life;
  • use of high-quality lubricants;
  • caring attitude from the former owners;
  • strict compliance with maintenance standards;
  • dealer service;
  • low cost compared to a new unit.

The disadvantages of such engines include:

  • high mileage of foreign cars;
  • inability to check service life;
  • no guarantee that the former owner will comply with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

You should not purchase a power unit older than seven years. This is true for diesel engines.

The Volkswagen concern (VW) is one of the world's most powerful automakers after the legendary General Motors. It includes quite a few well-known car brands for which the company produces and installs engines.

Description of engines

Volkswagen engines offer power comparable to reliability. The range of power units is quite extensive. Engines produced by VW are considered the best in Europe and have a good reputation even in America. Thus, the company supplies engines not only to its own brand of cars, but also to such well-known brands as Audi, Skoda, Porshe, Seat, Beantly and even sports cars - Lamborgini and Bugatti.

As you can see, power units from the concern have become quite widespread throughout Europe. Volkswagen produces engines - naturally aspirated, turbocharged, diesel and others. All of them have gained great popularity among car enthusiasts from different countries due to their reliability.

The only drawback of engines is quite complex repairs, which can only be properly carried out at specialized automotive repair stations.

Technical characteristics and model range

VW engines, as mentioned earlier, have high technical characteristics because they are designed and assembled by highly qualified specialists. The range of engines produced by the company is quite large. Thus, there are small power units such as 1.2, 1.4, 1.8 and 2.0 labeled TSi.

These are turbocharged gasoline power units with low fuel consumption and a capacity of 100 to 200 horsepower. Separately, VAG engines were developed for the Skoda subsidiary, which were widely used for other models of the concern. The average service life of Volkswagen engines is 300,000 km.

In addition to gasoline engines, Volkswagen and other brands were equipped with power units with diesel injection. Diesel engines received the TDi marking. They are most widespread for trucks VW Caddy, VW Transporter, VW Crafter and others.

Most of the group's cars, such as Audi and Bentley, are equipped with engines with V6 and V8 configurations. The manufacturer's greatest pride is the engines for world-famous sports cars. Thus, sports versions of Lamborghini, Audi and Bugatti vehicles received V10, V12, WR12 engines.

The legendary Bugatti Veyron engine with a volume of 8 liters, also produced by VW. Moreover, it has a distinctive configuration - W16, which is considered the best Volkswagen engine in the entire history of production.

It is assembled by hand and undergoes a series of complex tests before it goes directly into the vehicle. At the same time, the engine resource, according to the manufacturer’s data, is 1 million km.

Engine oil for Volkswagen is produced by a subsidiary of VAG. This lubricant has high technical characteristics. As for the oil in the Bugatti Veyron engine, the concern developed a special high-density lubricant for this model. The average maintenance for this vehicle would be $21,000 per trip to the auto repair shop.

Repair of power units

Repair of Volkswagen engines will vary in price depending on the model. So, the 1.4 TSi power unit will be cheaper to repair than the 1.8 TDi. At the same time, the principles of repair for each power unit will differ not only in price, but in the processes carried out. It depends design features each power unit separately, as well as the cost of spare parts.

As for maintenance, almost all service manuals contain one number and the order of work. Thus, the recommended maintenance should be carried out every 12-15 thousand kilometers. However, these are only the norms for changing oil and filters.

It is worth noting that the amount of oil in the engine of each modification is different and must be studied for each specific engine separately. The name of the motor is written on the power unit itself, on a special plate or in the service book.

A major overhaul of a Volkswagen engine is carried out immediately after the engine's service life has expired or spare parts have worn out. Thus, the wear of engine parts is influenced by how often maintenance is carried out, what spare parts and materials are used, as well as the driver’s driving style.

Typically, the service life and suitable overhaul can be found in a specialized car service center, where they will carry out comprehensive diagnostics and determine the actual condition of the engine.

Well, if a car enthusiast decides to independently repair a Volkswagen engine, then he will definitely need engine repairs and maintenance, which are produced by the manufacturer according to the name of the brand, model and year of manufacture. vehicle. The selection of spare parts for the engine can be done by deciphering the identification number of the engine or body, where all the data is written down.

Oil change

Changing the oil is an essential operation for all engines. This is due to the fact that the lubricating fluid loses its technical and chemical qualities during operation. So, changing the oil in Volkswagen engines is quite simple if you follow the prescribed steps:

  1. The engine is allowed to cool.
  2. The engine protection is removed.
  3. Place the container and unscrew the drain plug.
  4. After the lubricating fluid has escaped, the plug is tightened and the o-ring is replaced.
  5. Next, unscrew the oil filter element. This is done using a special puller.
  6. A little new oil is poured into the new filter and screwed on.
  7. New lubricant flows through the filler neck. The amount of oil is determined in the correspondingly marked engine repair and maintenance manuals.
  8. The engine is allowed to run for 5-7 minutes, and then the oil level is checked. If necessary, add it to the required amount.

Tuning a Volkswagen engine is carried out by analogy with other engines. So, there are two options for modifying the engine: software (the most common) and mechanical (popularly - boring and installing additional spare parts).

By software modification we mean chip tuning, which in turn is divided into two subgroups: chip soldering and programming of the electronic engine control unit. The first option should only be carried out by professionals at a specialized car service center, since the process is quite specific and requires in-depth knowledge of automotive electricals.

As for the second option, most motorists do it themselves. To do this, you will need a little knowledge or instructions found on the Internet, a special USB-Car cable and a laptop. Accordingly, you need to download the software.

Software chip tuning aimed at improving the required engine characteristics. So, motorists usually choose one of two options: reducing consumption or increasing power. At the same time, balanced chip tuning is used less frequently.

The manufacturer does not recommend chip tuning of its engines. But, as practice has shown, this kind of recommendations does not influence the opinions of drivers and therefore the company has specially released several official firmware for its power units, which are called Stage+.

The latest version for engines today is version 5. It allows you to select the necessary parameters at the time of programming the electronic engine control unit.

Conclusion

Volkswagen engines have a fairly wide range of names and markings. Thus, the concern produces power units for such famous car brands as Audi, Skoda, Porshe, Seat, Beantly and even sports cars - Lamborgini and Bugatti.

The company's motors have proven themselves to be very positive. They have a long service life and are reliable. And even if the power unit has been repaired, it will serve the owner for a long time. The Volkswagen engine is the benchmark German quality automotive industry.

These engines cause a lot of problems and, even worse, are often unreasonably expensive to repair.

0.6 / 0.7 Turbo -Smart

The main problem with this engine is durability. Its service life is only about 100,000 km, which is currently simply unheard of for a passenger car. Apparently, during the design process, the designers could not imagine that the car would be used for so long. The most noticeable sign of engine wear is increased oil consumption.

In addition, the three-cylinder baby from Smart suffers from burnout of valve seats, problems in the timing drive system and premature wear of the turbine.

Problem period: 1998-2002 (0.6), 2002-2007 (0.7)

Application: Smart ForTwo

1.4 TSI is a concernVolkswagen


It was to become one of the Volkswagen Group's most popular petrol engines. And so it turned out. It was used in segments B, C and D. Unfortunately, the engineers did not cope with several problems that tarnish the brand image and can empty the pockets of an unconscious owner.

Engine 1.4 TSI with 160 hp. The dual-supercharged engine suffers from chain stretching, problems with the chain tensioner and the compressor's electromagnetic clutch. In addition, the engine is very heavily loaded, which is why cracks appear on the middle pistons. If problems with the pistons occur during the warranty period, then the engine is replaced at the expense of the manufacturer, otherwise the driver will face huge expenses.

The more modest 122-horsepower version of the turbo engine suffers only from problems with the chain and tensioner.

Also, both engine modifications are characterized by problems with the injection system.

Period of problems: since 2006.

Application:

Audi: A1, A3

Seat: Ibiza, Toledo, Leon, Altea, Alhambra

Skoda: Rapid, Octavia, Yeti, Superb

VW: Polo, Golf, Touran, Tiguan, Scirocco, Jetta, Passat, CC, Sharan

1.5 dCi – groupRenault


There is an opinion that diesel engines are reliable and durable. Renault's small diesel shows that this is far from the case. Introduced in 2001, the 1.5 dCi (K9K) was used in a significant number of small Renault and Dacia models, as well as in a number of Nissan models.

Most serious problem– turning the connecting rod bearings. Trouble usually occurs after about 150,000 km. Repair costs may be higher than purchasing a used engine, although the latter decision is also quite risky. In addition, malfunctions occur in the operation of the power supply and supercharging systems.

Period of problems: since 2001.

Application:

Renault: Twingo, Clio, Thalia, Modus, Megane, Fluence, Scenic, Kangoo, Captur, Laguna

Dacia: Sandero, Logan, Logan MCV, Lodgy, Dokker, Duster

Nissan: Note, Juke, NV200/Evalia, Micra III, Almera, Qashqai

Mercedes: A, B, CLA

Suzuki Jimny

1.6 T.H.P.BMW /P.S.A.


In 2006, PSA, together with BMW, showed a common power unit. It was a 1.6-liter THP petrol engine (150-200 hp), which has since received many awards, winning the title “Engine of the Year”. It was used in Mini and urban models of Peugeot and Citroen. Unfortunately, it is not without its shortcomings. There are problems with turbocharging, chain stretching and cracking of the exhaust manifold. Some of the problems have been brought under control: for example, the chain, after 2009, no longer stretches. In 2011, a modernization was carried out, which eliminated most of the remaining miscalculations. Later, both companies decided to work on further engine modifications independently of each other.

Problem period: 2006-2011.

Application:

BMW: Mini Cooper S

Citroen: DS3, C4, DS4, DS5

Peugeot: 207, 208, 308, 408, 508, RCZ

1.9 dCi - groupRenault


Renault's 1.9 dCi (F9Q) diesel engine has not earned a good reputation. It suffers from the same problems as the smaller 1.5 dCi. When purchasing a car with a 1.9 dCi engine, you must be prepared for possible cranking of the connecting rod bearings, failure of the injection system and turbocharger. The consolation will be the fact that the repair costs are not fatal.

Problem period: 1999-2008

Application:

Renault: Clio, Megane, Laguna, Espace

Nissan: Primera

Mitsubishi: Carisma

Volvo: S40/V40

Suzuki: Grand Vitara

2.0 TDI - concernVolkswagen


No engine has spoiled the manufacturer's reputation as much as the 2.0 TDI PD did. It replaced the 1.9 TDI, famous for its reliability and unpretentiousness. The list of defects on the 2.0 TDI PD is long: cracking of the cylinder head, failure of the oil pump, pump injectors, timing drive (premature wear of the gears on the drive shaft), failure of the dual-mass flywheel.

The problems ended in 2007 with the introduction of version 2.0 TDI CR, i.e. with common rail injection system. Since then, the VW 2-liter diesel is no longer blacklisted.

Problem period: 2003-2007

Application:

Volkswagen: Golf, Jetta, Passat, Touran, Sharan

Audi: A3, A4, A6

Skoda: Superb

Seat: Leon, Altea, Toledo

2.0 d –BMW


The 2-liter diesel BMW M47D20/M47TUD20 is not without problems. It can bring real chaos to the owner's financial accounts. Since 1998, the 136- and 150-horsepower versions of the engine have suffered from many ailments: failure of the turbine, dual-mass flywheel, injectors, and even cracking of the crankshaft.

Its successor, the N47, produced between March 2007 and June 2009, received additional load on the crankshaft to drive auxiliary mechanisms. As a result, the life of the timing drive has been reduced, which inevitably entails additional costs.

Problem period: 1998-2005

Application: BMW: 320d, 520d

2.0 D –Subaru


The first ever Subaru diesel engine (opposite) received a lot positive feedback. However, it soon became clear that it had some shortcomings. First there were problems with the clutch. The Eastern European representative office of Subaru stated that the drivers themselves are to blame for this. However, in Western Europe This defect was corrected under warranty. The problem was resolved when the 5-speed manual transmission was replaced with a 6-speed.

But that's not all! In addition, the dual-mass flywheel, the EGR exhaust gas recirculation valve may fail, and sometimes axial play of the crankshaft is detected. The last problem is very serious: engine repair can be expensive, and not every mechanic can handle it.

Period of problems: since 2008.

Application: Subaru: Forester, Impreza, Legacy, XV.

2.0 / 2.2 D-4D –Toyota


Toyota turbodiesels 1AD and 2AD series have a number of disadvantages. The first one is excessive consumption of motor oil. However, oil consumption itself should not cause concern until it reaches gigantic volumes - 0.5-1 l/100 km. The second drawback is a breakdown of the cylinder head gasket. The reason for this probably lies in the heavy loads on the engine, which leads to deformation of the cylinder head. Replacing the gasket does little, since warping appears in the areas where the plane of the aluminum alloy cylinder block meets the cylinder head. The engine block must be replaced (Toyota recommendations) or an alternative solution must be applied - grinding the mating plane. There are also malfunctions of the fuel injection system, turbine and dual-mass flywheel.

Problem period: 2005-2009

Application:

Toyota: Auris, Verso, Rav4, Avensis

Lexus: IS220d

2.0 TDCi –Ford


In 2000, Ford introduced the world to the powerful 2-liter ZSD420 turbodiesel, which found its way under the hood of the Mondeo. Pump high pressure often began to “drive chips”, as a result of which the nozzles became clogged. To restore the engine, an integrated approach is required, otherwise the replaced injectors will soon become clogged again. Another problem typical of modern diesel engines is the failure of the dual-mass flywheel.

Problem period: 2000-2009

Application:

Ford: Mondeo III

Jaguar: X-Type

2.0 CiTD - Mazda


The two-liter Mazda MZR-CD diesel engine of the RF series is very sensitive to oil quality. Failure to comply with oil change intervals or the use of incompatible (too thick) oil leads to clogging of the oil intake, causing the engine to lack lubrication, causing increased wear on its moving parts or even seizing. There are also failures of the idle speed controller, cracking of the intercooler and failure of the EGR valve.

Period of problems: since 2002.

Application: Mazda: 3, 5, 6, MPV

2.0 T.S.AlfaRomeo


The 2-liter Alfa Romeo engine is one of the strongest, but expensive and difficult to maintain. Its main features are two spark plugs per cylinder (Twin Spark) and several problems. It is necessary to take a very responsible approach to monitoring the oil level. The weak link in the engine is the variable valve timing system. Its incorrect operation leads to uneven operation of the power unit. Wear of the crankshaft connecting rod bearings is also common.

Problem period: the entire production period.

Application: Alfa Romeo: 145/146, 147, 155, 156, 166, GT, Spyder/GTV

2.5 TDI - concernVolkswagen


Looking at the characteristics of this motor, you want to immediately fall in love with it. High power, huge torque, high work culture and low fuel consumption. But, unfortunately, it sometimes causes problems that can appear with a relatively new engine. At the same time, it will not be possible to get away with just a “garland” of light signals on the instrument panel. The high pressure fuel pump (HPF) and camshafts cause trouble. Over time, the manufacturer dealt with serious design flaws: in 2001, the problem with the fuel injection pump was solved, and in 2004, with the camshafts. Production of these engines was completed in 2008.

Problem period: 1997-2004

Application:

Audi: A4, A6, A8

VW: Passat

Skoda: Superb

2.5 Turbo -Subaru


In 2006, Subaru introduced its new powerful 2.5 liter gasoline engine EJ255/EJ257. It was a “bloated” 2-liter engine, but the increase in displacement did not benefit it. The most common problem is a breakdown of the head gasket, which leads to coolant entering the combustion chambers. In some cases this resulted in cracking of the pistons. Greatest chance The engines, which were very carefully operated by the owners, ensured uninterrupted operation. Tuning the power unit or its aggressive and merciless operation soon leads to trouble. But how can you avoid driving fast in a sporty Subaru?

Period of problems: since 2005.

Application: Subaru: Impreza, Legacy, Forester, Outback, Baja

2.5 / 3.1 T.D.V.M.Motori


From a company that specializes in building engines, you expect great design and reliability. But the Italians would not be themselves if they did not offer something special. The 2.5-liter diesel engine R4 (425/R425) and its 3.1-liter counterpart with an additional cylinder R5 (531/R531) turned out to be capricious and difficult to maintain. Common problems include failure of the gas distribution system due to lack of lubrication. The unusual design with its own cylinder head for each cylinder (4 for R4, 5 for R5) complicates maintenance, and their incorrect installation leads to engine failure. A failed generator located directly below it will tell you about the current pump.

Period of problems: since 1987.

Application:

Alfa Romeo: 155, 164

Chrysler: Voyager

Jeep: Cherokee, Grand Cherokee (także: 531)

Rover: 800

Range Rover

3.0 DI –Nissan


Nissan does not produce diesel engines with large displacement. After the 2.8 TD diesel (RD28) was prone to overheating, which led to cracks in the cylinder head, Nissan introduced the 3.0 DI (ZD30) in 1999. Unfortunately, it had a serious design flaw - the 3rd and 4th cylinders did not receive enough lubrication, which led to them jamming. But this is not the only drawback - the cylinder head gasket also burned out. The liquid-cooled turbine is very sensitive to overheating.

Nissan claims that it has modified the engine and these problems no longer exist.

Period of problems: since 1999.

Application: Nissan: Patrol, Terrano, Navara, Caravan

3.0 DMAX –Isuzu /GM


Isuzu is a company that is currently engaged in the production of trucks. At one time, she misfired with her 3-liter 177-horsepower V6 DMAX (6DE1). Depending on the brand, it received different designations: 3.0 CDTI (Y30DT) - Opel, 3.0 TiD (D308L) - Saab and 3.0 dCi (P9X701) - Renault.

After 150-200 thousand km, due to overheating and subsequent deformation of the block, the liners in the cylinders began to fall. This led to fluid leakage from the cooling system, further overheating and engine seizure. The manufacturer, having not found ways to repair the engine, recommended replacing it in such a case. However, companies using Isuzu technology have finally found a solution to the problem. So, Saab simply switched to Fiat 1.9 JTD engines, and Opel upgraded the engine. The updated power unit began to develop 184 hp. and received the designation Z30DT. The French also followed in the footsteps of the Germans: Renault received the 185-horsepower P9X715.

Problem period: 2000-2006

Application:

Opel: Vectra, Signum

Saab: 9-5

Renault: Vel Satis, Espace

3.4 B6 –Porsche


Porsche is famous for the excellent quality of its products and does not betray itself in this regard. recent years. However, the manufacturer from Zuffenhausen did not escape setbacks. The largest of which was the 3.4 B6 liquid-cooled engine, prepared in 1998 for the new Porsche Carrera (996). Due to a design error, there is a risk of cracking the cylinder head, which leads to oil mixing with coolant. In addition, cracking of cylinder liners and jamming of the crankshaft occur. More gentle operation and a reduction in the recommended oil change period will help avoid tragedy. But this is not what is expected from Porsche cars.

The engine was subject to constant modifications, because engineers tried to cope with the latest sores. But if you decide to purchase a Porsche Carerra 996 with such an engine, then it is better to look for a younger copy (2001). The problem disappeared completely when Porsche replaced the problematic engine with a larger 3.6 V6 during a restyling in 2001.

Problem period: 1998-2001

Application: Porsche 911 Carrera and Carrera 4 (all body types).

4.5 V8 –Porsche


The Porsche Cayenne is still the best-selling model of the Porsche brand. Therefore, on the secondary market you can find quite a lot of copies in relatively good condition. However, you need to be careful when choosing petrol Cayenne S 4.5 V8. Its cylinder liners often crack. Symptoms: extraneous noise from the engine and increasing engine oil consumption. Repairs can be expensive (more than $1,000). Porsche cars have never been cheap to run. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo and Cayenne S later got rid of these problems by having cylinder liners made of a more resistant material.

Problem period: 2002-2007

Application: Porsche Cayenne S.

P.S. We continue to search for problematic engines that are best avoided: Attention, unsuccessful engines! (part 2)

German engine manufacturers have always been famous for producing very high-quality and reliable engines, both diesel and gasoline. It is impossible to explain this with anything other than a responsible approach to performing one’s work, as well as the use of the most durable and best materials and state-of-the-art latest technologies in production. In this article we will look at the best and most reliable engines from Volkswagen manufacturers.

It is the diesel engines of this concern that are considered the most reliable. The top model in the entire series in terms of this indicator is the motor AXD , which has 5 cylinders and a displacement of 1.8 liters. The power of this power unit is 102 hp, combined with a torque of 130 Nm, the power capabilities of this engine seem very modest. However, given that fuel consumption is only 8.5 l/100 km, it immediately becomes clear why this engine has become so popular. Drivers and specialists also noted the following point: considering the average cost of any type of engine repair work, the total prices are much lower than for any other diesel engine series. This means that this engine not only saves on the fuel mixture consumed, but also on repairs. And this engine stands out not only to German owners of Volkswagen Tiguans, on which it is usually installed, but also among Russian drivers there are plenty of fans of this unit.

Also among the advantages of this engine is the fact that the average cross-country ability without major repairs is about 200,000 km. Even the timing belt will last you so long, which usually needs to be changed after 100-120 thousand km. But, again, such cross-country ability is allowed with a measured and calm driving style, without any jerks or other manifestations of aggressive driving.

Gasoline engines

Among gasoline engines, it is difficult to single out one that will clearly win the “most reliable Volkswagen engine” category. One of the most common engines among those that deserve to be considered the most reliable is a two-liter engine AWM with 140 hp. and torque 165 Nm . This engine has found its application in many Volkswagen cars, for example, Tiguan, Jetta and many others. The motor is notable for its excellent performance when driving on any surface. Among drivers there was also favorable word of mouth about this engine in the light that when using it it is convenient and comfortable to drive “uphill”, that is, it behaves well at high speeds, and is also quite good at idling after traveling a long distance.



It should be noted that the very first model of this engine appeared back in 1997, and since then this engine has transformed from a 1.2 liter engine into a completely powerful and reliable unit that you want to use. Among the obvious advantages of this unit, decent behavior, good dynamics, low fuel consumption (9.5 liters in the city), and relatively low repair costs stand out most clearly.

V6

Where would we be without a V6 engine in this rating? It was this engine that was considered the most reliable and desirable for drivers for a long time, thanks to its excellent characteristics. . First of all, the use of this engine guarantees excellent driving dynamics. Many fans of “driving” on the roads are very fond of this engine for its power - 170 hp, which allows you to accelerate quite well and quickly on the same Tiguan. Also, this power unit is quite attractive for those who often travel outside the city, because it is when driving on the highways that fuel consumption decreases - about 9 liters! In the city, consumption is also low - up to 7.5 liters. Also, this engine cannot be called highly susceptible to breakdowns and malfunctions, because even if the car is not driven too calmly, the engine still behaves well and does not ask for anything extra. You can easily drive 150,000 km on it, changing only the oil.

Experts tried to find flaws in this engine, but could not get to the bottom of anything, because the engine is actually virtually ideal. Yes, some characteristics, for example, acceleration, could be improved so that it would be considered almost racing, you can, of course, reduce the cost of repair work, but in general it is simply beautiful!

Six-cylinder ABU

Among its six-cylinder counterparts, it is the model that stands out most clearly ABU with a volume of 1.8 liters . This motor is distinguished by a rather simple design, without the addition of complex elements. It is this fact that attracts the attention of drivers, especially those who have recently started driving a car, because this particular engine is quite easy to understand and understand how it works and how to carry out repair work on the engines yourself alone. The engine is well balanced, and this can be understood by the fact that during operation there is no vibration of mechanisms and components.
This engine became widespread in the same way as many others, on Golf and Tiguan cars. This engine is classified as one of the so-called “millionaires” - engines that can travel about a million kilometers without serious intervention. This is where the reliability of this unit really shines! Everything would be fine, but there is one “but”: the cost of repair work cannot be called even average - the “normative” indicators that spontaneously occurred in the field of drivers for car repairs, this engine exceeds, which acts as a fly in the ointment. However, with such reliability, especially if you drive calmly and don’t “drive”, you can drive with it for 10-15 years without strain and quite calmly, naturally, changing consumables on time.

Motor for trucks AXC

In this hit parade, we cannot ignore those engines that are created for trucks. And the most outstanding thing here is the 1.6 liter engine. AXC, which is used quite successfully on cars Transporter T5 series . What remarkable things can be found here? Yes, the engine is not a “millionaire”, yes, it cannot boast of traveling a long distance without repair - about 100-115 thousand km, but if you drive it on the road at least once, you no longer want to change it, the dynamics are so good! Doesn't vibrate, doesn't make much noise - what else do you need?! And for a truck engine, this motor is very reliable, because even such a distance as noted above, without serious interventions, is quite large, nevertheless, when using a motor on “heavy weights”, its parts are subjected to greater pressure and, accordingly, wear. The engine consumes little - about 10 liters in urban conditions and about 11.5 outside the city. And engine repairs are also cheap, unlike many trucks. This is explained by the simple design of the engines - it does not have any “bells and whistles”, which makes its repair quick and easy.

Summing up

Five engines were presented to your attention, which are recognized by drivers as the most reliable among their competitors. Each of these motors is attractive in its own way, but the similarity in high reliability puts them on a par with the best and most reliable motors not only for the concern Volkswagen, but also among other world units . The criterion for the reliability of a unit mainly includes such an indicator as using the engine for a long time without repair interventions, and each of these engines is a leader in this component among other brothers and classmates. Adding to this quality the low cost of the engines, their unpretentiousness and dynamics, the low cost of repairs and the simplicity of the device, we get virtually ideal units for use on the roads.

In other words, each of the engines highlighted in this article is recommended for use not only by the world's leading experts, but also by ordinary experienced drivers who know a lot about it like no one else. And the opinions of knowledgeable people should always be trusted!


Volkswagen (VW) is a very popular German manufacturer of cars in the mid-price segment, part of the Volkswagen AG concern, the world's second largest auto giant after Toyota. This association, in addition to the main company, includes Seat, Lamborghini, Bentley, Bugatti and several other well-known brands. The products of these companies are somewhat unified among themselves, so some models use common platforms, components, and assemblies; the same Volkswagen engine can easily be found on related cars.
Volkswagen engines offer a wide range of installations of various configurations, starting with compact in-line threes. Taking into account the specifics of these cars, the most popular engines have become 4-cylinder engines, produced in both simple atmospheric versions and with FSI direct injection. Over time, turbocharged engines, as well as turbocharged ones with a compressor, appeared; such Volkswagen engines are known as TSI/TFSI. Small engines 1.2 TSI, 1.4 TSI, 1.8 TSI and 2.0 TSI, with a modest displacement, produce quite impressive power and VW cars drive quite confidently with them.
For models with larger dimensions, VAG has developed engines with 5 and 6 cylinders, and the configuration of the latter can be in-line, V6 and VR6. Top modifications of Volkswagen, Audi, Bentley are equipped with Volkswagen V8 engines, both turbocharged and naturally aspirated. For sports cars from Lamborghini, Audi, Bentley and other manufacturers, V10, V12, WR12 were produced. The pinnacle, the best Volkswagen engine is the W16, with a displacement of 8 liters, installed on the Bugatti Veyron.
In addition to a whole range of various Volkswagen gasoline engines, there is approximately the same huge range of diesel engines. The range is impressive: from ultra-small two-cylinder, to 5 liter V10 and 6 liter V12, with a torque of 1000 Nm.
It is very difficult for an uninitiated person to understand all this splendor, so Wikimotors will tell you everything about old and new Volkswagen engines: their codes, brands, types, types, which engine is located where, the plant where this engine is produced, etc.
Now you don’t need to look for reviews on Volkswagen engines, just click on the brand of your VW and find out the following: technical characteristics, problems, malfunctions (knocking, stalling, troits, smoking, etc.) and repair of Volkswagen engines, service life, weight, tuning, chip tuning and much more.
By tradition, it is indicated what kind of oil is recommended to be poured into a Volkswagen engine, how long it will take to replace it, and the amount and volume of oil in the engine.
WikiMotors will help you choose and buy a Volkswagen contract engine correctly, find out which engine is better, the most reliable, and so on.



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