The 1.9-liter VW AFN 1.9 TDI diesel engine was produced by the company from 1996 to 2000 and installed on the most popular models, and is most known for the Passat B5. In fact, such a diesel engine differs from the AHU unit by the presence of a turbine with variable geometry.
EA180 family: 1Z, AFN, AHF, AHU, ALH, AVG, AKU, AEY.
Specifications
| Production years | 1996-2000 |
| Displacement, cc | 1896 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 110 |
| Torque output, Nm | 235 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 79.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 95.5 |
| Compression ratio | 19.5 |
| Features | SOHC, intercooler |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | VGT |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.3 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Passat 1997) — city — highway — combined |
7.2 4.5 5.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~400 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Audi A4 B5 (8D) in 1996 – 2000;
- Audi A6 C5 (4B) in 1997 – 1999;
- Seat Cordoba 1 (6K) in 1997 – 1999;
- Seat Ibiza 2 (6K) in 1997 – 1999;
- Seat Toledo 1 (1L) in 1996 – 1999;
- Volkswagen Golf 3 (1H) in 1996 – 1997;
- Volkswagen Passat B4 (3A) in 1996 – 1997, Passat B5 (3B) in 1996 – 1999;
- Volkswagen Polo 3 (6N) in 1998 – 1999;
- Volkswagen Sharan 1 (7M) in 1996 – 1999;
- Volkswagen Vento 1 (1H) in 1996 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the VW AFN engine
- This engine is very reliable and the problems described below happen on a big run;
- Quite often there is a gesture of the saddles of the valves and, as a result, the loss of compression;
- The fault of the failures in traction is usually the jammed geometry of the turbine and the EGR valve;
- Often, the lower flange of the crankcase ventilation tube bursts and the lubricant begins to oozes through the pallet;
- The breakthrough of the auxiliary belt is very dangerous here, as it can get into the timing.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen AFN
How much power does the Volkswagen AFN make?
The Volkswagen AFN develops 110 hp and 235 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen AFN take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.3 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-40.
Does the Volkswagen AFN have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen AFN uses a timing belt.
Is the Volkswagen AFN turbocharged?
Yes, the Volkswagen AFN is turbocharged (VGT).
Does the Volkswagen AFN need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen AFN has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen AFN last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen AFN is ~400 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen AFN?
VW Passat 1997: city 7.2, highway 4.5, combined 5.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen AFN installed on?
Audi A4 B5 (8D) in 1996 - 2000; Audi A6 C5 (4B) in 1997 - 1999; Seat Cordoba 1 (6K) in 1997 - 1999; Seat Ibiza 2 (6K) in 1997 - 1999; Seat Toledo 1 (1L) in 1996 - 1999; Volkswagen Golf 3 (1H) in 1996 - 1997 and 4 more (see the full list above).
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen AFN?
This engine is very reliable and the problems described below happen on a big run. Quite often there is a gesture of the saddles of the valves and, as a result, the loss of compression. All known problems.





