The 1.8-liter 20-valve Volkswagen 1.8 ARG engine was produced from 1997 to 2001 and was installed only on the fifth generation of the Passat model and its counterpart, the Audi A4 B5. This motor differed from its counterparts in the family by its longitudinal arrangement under the hood.
EA827 1.8l family: RP, AAM, ABS, ADZ, PF, ADR, ARG, AEB, ANB, JN.
Specifications
| Production years | 1997-2001 |
| Displacement, cc | 1781 |
| Fuel system | injector |
| Power output, hp | 125 |
| Torque output, Nm | 168 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 20v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 81 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 86.4 |
| Compression ratio | 10.3 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain & belt |
| Phase regulator | yes |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Passat B5 1999) — city — highway — combined |
12.2 6.4 8.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~320 000 |
| Weight, kg | 150 (with attachments) |
The engine was installed on:
- Audi A4 B5 (8D) in 1997 – 2001;
- Volkswagen Passat B5 (3B) in 1997 – 2000.
Disadvantages of the VW ARG engine
- This motor is quite reliable and often only worries about the timing chain tensioner;
- Also, the intake manifold damper regulator periodically fails;
- The reason for floating engine speeds is usually a dirty throttle or injectors;
- The antifreeze temperature sensor and air flow meter have a low resource;
- The crankcase ventilation is regularly clogged, which leads to thrust failures, etc.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen ARG
How much power does the Volkswagen ARG make?
The Volkswagen ARG develops 125 hp and 168 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen ARG take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Volkswagen ARG have a timing belt or chain?
Timing drive of the Volkswagen ARG: chain & belt.
Is the Volkswagen ARG turbocharged?
No, the Volkswagen ARG is naturally aspirated.
Does the Volkswagen ARG need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen ARG has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen ARG last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen ARG is ~320 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen ARG?
VW Passat B5 1999: city 12.2, highway 6.4, combined 8.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen ARG installed on?
Audi A4 B5 (8D) in 1997 - 2001; Volkswagen Passat B5 (3B) in 1997 - 2000.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen ARG?
This motor is quite reliable and often only worries about the timing chain tensioner. Also, the intake manifold damper regulator periodically fails. All known problems.





