The company assembled the 1.7-liter VW AKU or 1.7 SDI diesel engine from 1997 to 2005 and installed it in a number of compact models, such as the Polo, Lupo and the similar Seat Arosa. The 2nd generation Caddy was equipped with a similar power unit, but under the AHB index.
EA180 family: 1Z, AFN, AHF, AHU, ALH, AVG, AKU, AEY.
Specifications
| Production years | 1997-2005 |
| Displacement, cc | 1716 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 60 |
| Torque output, Nm | 115 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 79.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 86.4 |
| Compression ratio | 19.5 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.7 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 2/3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Volkswagen Polo 1999) — city — highway — combined |
5.9 3.6 4.4 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~400 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Seat Arosa 1 (6H) in 1997 – 2003;
- Volkswagen Polo 3 (6N) in 1997 – 2001;
- Volkswagen Lupo 1 (6X) in 1998 – 2005.
Disadvantages of the VW AKU engine
- This diesel engine is distinguished by a phlegmatic character, but great endurance and resource;
- In winter, the engine may not start well due to the failure of the temperature sensor;
- The culprit for traction failures and floating engine speeds is usually a clogged EGR valve;
- One of the nozzles here is equipped with an injection sensor, which often breaks the winding;
- The remaining problems of this unit are associated with malfunctions of the Bosch VP37 injection pump.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen AKU
How much power does the Volkswagen AKU make?
The Volkswagen AKU develops 60 hp and 115 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen AKU take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.7 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-40.
Does the Volkswagen AKU have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen AKU uses a timing belt.
Is the Volkswagen AKU turbocharged?
No, the Volkswagen AKU is naturally aspirated.
Does the Volkswagen AKU need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen AKU has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen AKU last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen AKU is ~400 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen AKU?
Volkswagen Polo 1999: city 5.9, highway 3.6, combined 4.4 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen AKU installed on?
Seat Arosa 1 (6H) in 1997 - 2003; Volkswagen Polo 3 (6N) in 1997 - 2001; Volkswagen Lupo 1 (6X) in 1998 - 2005.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen AKU?
This diesel engine is distinguished by a phlegmatic character, but great endurance and resource. In winter, the engine may not start well due to the failure of the temperature sensor. All known problems.
