The 2.8-liter injection engine Volkswagen AAA 2.8 VR6 was produced from 1991 to 1998 and was installed on charged versions of such models as Golf, Jetta, Passat or Sharan. This motor is considered the ancestor of the company’s VR-shaped powertrain family.
EA360 family: AAA, AQP, ABV, BUB.
Specifications
| Production years | 1991-1998 |
| Displacement, cc | 2792 |
| Fuel system | Motronic M2.9 |
| Power output, hp | 174 |
| Torque output, Nm | 235 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron VR6 |
| Block head | aluminum 12v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 81 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90.3 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Sharan 1996) — city — highway — combined |
16.6 8.9 11.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~280 000 |
| Weight, kg | 170 |
The engine was installed on:
- Volkswagen Corrado 1 (509) in 1991 – 1995;
- Volkswagen Golf 3 (1H) in 1991 – 1997;
- Volkswagen Passat B3 (31) in 1991 – 1993, Passat B4 (3A) in 1993 – 1996;
- Volkswagen Sharan 1 (7M) in 1995 – 1998;
- Volkswagen Vento 1 (1H) in 1992 – 1998.
Disadvantages of the VW AAA engine
- Most often, car owners with such a unit complain about high fuel consumption.
- In second place in popularity is oil consumption, which also grows with mileage.
- This is followed by a short-lived and, moreover, complex and expensive to replace the timing chain.
- Minor problems include frequent failures of sensors and ignition distributor.
- Also, these engines are famous for regular oil and coolant leaks.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen AAA
How much power does the Volkswagen AAA make?
The Volkswagen AAA develops 174 hp and 235 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen AAA take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 5.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Volkswagen AAA have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen AAA uses a timing chain.
Is the Volkswagen AAA turbocharged?
No, the Volkswagen AAA is naturally aspirated.
Does the Volkswagen AAA need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen AAA has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen AAA last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen AAA is ~280 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen AAA?
VW Sharan 1996: city 16.6, highway 8.9, combined 11.7 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen AAA installed on?
Volkswagen Corrado 1 (509) in 1991 - 1995; Volkswagen Golf 3 (1H) in 1991 - 1997; Volkswagen Passat B3 (31) in 1991 - 1993, Passat B4 (3A) in 1993 - 1996; Volkswagen Sharan 1 (7M) in 1995 - 1998; Volkswagen Vento 1 (1H) in 1992 - 1998.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen AAA?
Most often, car owners with such a unit complain about high fuel consumption. In second place in popularity is oil consumption, which also grows with mileage. All known problems.
