The 4.0-liter Volkswagen BDN or Passat W8 4.0 engine was produced from 2001 to 2004 and was installed only on the maximum version of the restyled Passat B5 4.0 W8 4motion. On this model, there is another modification of this power unit under the BDP index.
EA398 family: BHT, BRN, CEJA, BDN.
Specifications
| Production years | 2001-2004 |
| Displacement, cc | 3999 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 275 |
| Torque output, Nm | 370 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum W8 |
| Block head | aluminum 32v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90.2 |
| Compression ratio | 10.8 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | on the intake and exhaust |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 8.3 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Passat 2002) — city — highway — combined |
19.4 9.5 12.9 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~240 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Volkswagen Passat B5 (3B) in 2001 – 2004.
Disadvantages of the VW BDN engine
- You need to carefully monitor the cooling system, as the motor is afraid of overheating;
- Due to frequent overheating and bad oil, scuffing quickly forms in the cylinders;
- In the lifted cylinders, oil waste begins, which is fraught with the rotation of the liners;
- About 200,000 km of run require the attention of the timing chain and you will have to remove the unit;
- The weak points of the engine also include ignition coils, pump, wiring between the computer.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen BDN
How much power does the Volkswagen BDN make?
The Volkswagen BDN develops 275 hp and 370 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen BDN take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 8.3 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Volkswagen BDN have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen BDN uses a timing chain.
Is the Volkswagen BDN turbocharged?
No, the Volkswagen BDN is naturally aspirated.
Does the Volkswagen BDN need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen BDN has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen BDN last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen BDN is ~240 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen BDN?
VW Passat 2002: city 19.4, highway 9.5, combined 12.9 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen BDN installed on?
Volkswagen Passat B5 (3B) in 2001 - 2004.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen BDN?
You need to carefully monitor the cooling system, as the motor is afraid of overheating. Due to frequent overheating and bad oil, scuffing quickly forms in the cylinders. All known problems.





