The 1.4-liter Volkswagen AEX engine was assembled at the company’s factory from 1995 to 1999 and installed on the third Golf, Polo, Caddy or the second generation of the Ibiza model. There was also a modernized version of this unit under its own APQ index.
EA111-1.4 family: AEX, AKQ, AXP, BBY, BCA, BUD, CGGA, CGGB.
Specifications
| Production years | 1995-1999 |
| Displacement, cc | 1390 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 60 |
| Torque output, Nm | 116 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 76.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 75.6 |
| Compression ratio | 10.2 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.2 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Golf 3 1997) — city — highway — combined |
9.0 5.5 6.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~275 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Volkswagen Caddy 2 (9K) in 1995 – 1999;
- Volkswagen Golf 3 (1H) in 1995 – 1999;
- Volkswagen Polo 3 (6N) in 1995 – 1999;
- Seat Ibiza 2 (6K) in 1996 – 1999.
Disadvantages of the VW AEX engine
- This power unit is simple and reliable, but it is not very convenient to maintain.
- The most famous engine problem is oil leaks from under the valve covers.
- The timing belt is famous for its unstable resource, and when it breaks, the valves always bend.
- Throttle fouling is usually the cause of floating idle.
- On long runs, owners are faced with the occurrence of rings and oil burners.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen AEX
How much power does the Volkswagen AEX make?
The Volkswagen AEX develops 60 hp and 116 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen AEX take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.2 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Volkswagen AEX have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen AEX uses a timing belt.
Is the Volkswagen AEX turbocharged?
No, the Volkswagen AEX is naturally aspirated.
Does the Volkswagen AEX need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen AEX has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen AEX last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen AEX is ~275 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen AEX?
VW Golf 3 1997: city 9.0, highway 5.5, combined 6.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen AEX installed on?
Volkswagen Caddy 2 (9K) in 1995 - 1999; Volkswagen Golf 3 (1H) in 1995 - 1999; Volkswagen Polo 3 (6N) in 1995 - 1999; Seat Ibiza 2 (6K) in 1996 - 1999.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen AEX?
This power unit is simple and reliable, but it is not very convenient to maintain. The most famous engine problem is oil leaks from under the valve covers. All known problems.





