The 2.5-liter Volkswagen AKN 2.5 TDI diesel engine was produced from 1999 to 2003 and was installed on the popular Passat B5, as well as Audi A4 B5, A6 C5 and A8 D2 models. This power unit is essentially a version of the well-known AFB engine updated to EURO 3.
EA330 family: AFB, AKE, AKN, AYM, BAU, BDG, BDH.
Specifications
| Production years | 1999-2003 |
| Displacement, cc | 2496 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 150 |
| Torque output, Nm | 310 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron V6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 78.3 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 86.4 |
| Compression ratio | 19.5 |
| Features | 2 x DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | VGT |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 6.0 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Volkswagen Passat 2000) — city — highway — combined |
9.8 5.2 6.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~260 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Audi A4 B5 (8D) in 1999 – 2001;
- Audi A6 C5 (4B) in 1999 – 2001;
- Audi A8 D2 (4D) in 1999 – 2000;
- Volkswagen Passat B5 (3B) in 1999 – 2003.
Disadvantages of the VW AKN engine
- Most of the complaints are related to the rapid wear of the camshaft cams or rockers;
- Many problems are caused by frequent failures of the Bosch VP44 electronically controlled high-pressure fuel pump;
- This motor is also extremely prone to oil leaks at the joints and from under the valve cover;
- On a run of more than 150,000 km, the mechanism for changing the geometry of the turbine may wedge;
- The weak points of the engine also include the viscous coupling bearing and pressure reducing valves.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen AKN
How much power does the Volkswagen AKN make?
The Volkswagen AKN develops 150 hp and 310 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen AKN take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 6.0 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Volkswagen AKN have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen AKN uses a timing belt.
Is the Volkswagen AKN turbocharged?
Yes, the Volkswagen AKN is turbocharged (VGT).
Does the Volkswagen AKN need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen AKN has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen AKN last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen AKN is ~260 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen AKN?
Volkswagen Passat 2000: city 9.8, highway 5.2, combined 6.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen AKN installed on?
Audi A4 B5 (8D) in 1999 - 2001; Audi A6 C5 (4B) in 1999 - 2001; Audi A8 D2 (4D) in 1999 - 2000; Volkswagen Passat B5 (3B) in 1999 - 2003.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen AKN?
Most of the complaints are related to the rapid wear of the camshaft cams or rockers. Many problems are caused by frequent failures of the Bosch VP44 electronically controlled high-pressure fuel pump. All known problems.





