Volkswagen · Passat B8 · 2015-2019
Volkswagen Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 specs and common problems
The best-selling engine of the Passat B8, known for its roomy interior and comfort. The EA288 1.6 TDI is generally robust. The real thing to watch is the 7-speed dry-clutch DSG.
01 / 07
How much oil does the Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 take?
The Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 takes about 4.3 litres of 5W-30 engine oil including the filter. Approval to look for on the bottle: VW 507.00.
- Approval
- VW 507.00
- Alternative
- 0W-30
- 7-speed DSG (DQ200)
- Mechatronic: VW G 004 000 · ≈ 1.0 L (mechatronic)
- Manual 6-speed
- VW G 052 171 (75W) · ≈ 2.0 L
- Coolant
- VW G13 · ≈ 7 L
- Brake fluid
- DOT 4
02 / 07
Timing belt and maintenance
Manufacturer interval around 210,000 km; in practice 150,000 km / 6 years
The water pump is belt-driven; replace them together.
The water pump is driven by the timing belt, so it should be replaced at the same time.
- Oil change
- 15,000 km or once a year (up to 30,000 km in LongLife mode)
- Glow plug
- 4 pcs · When they fail
- Valves / tappets
- Hydraulic tappets.
- Fuel filter
- 30,000-60,000 km
- Power
- 120 hp @ 3,250 rpm
- Torque
- 250 Nm @ 1,500 rpm
- Displacement
- 1,598 cc
- Fuel
- Diesel · Variable geometry turbo, intercooler
- Valvetrain
- DOHC 16V
- Injection
- Common-rail direct injection
- Transmission
- 6-speed manual / 7-speed DSG (DQ200)
- Emissions
- Euro 6 (DPF)
03 / 07
Tyre size and pressure
- Original size
- 215/60 R16
- Alternative sizes
- 215/55 R17 · 235/45 R18
- Bolt pattern (PCD)
- 5x112
- Centre bore
- 57.1 mm
- Wheel
- 6.5J x 16 ET41
04 / 07
Is the Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 suitable for LPG?
- Classic LPG conversions are not done on diesel engines.
05 / 07
Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 common problems and fixes
- #01
DSG (DQ200) mechatronic failure
High RiskAfter 80,000 km
- Symptom:
- Clunky shifts, flashing gear indicator in the cluster, car won't engage gear.
- Cause:
- Pressure accumulator or valve body failure in the mechatronic unit.
- Proper fix:
- Mechatronic repair or replacement, followed by basic setting.
- #02
DSG dry clutch wear
Medium RiskAfter 100,000 km
- Symptom:
- Judder when pulling away, jerk on the 1-2 shift.
- Cause:
- Dry clutches wearing in stop-and-go traffic.
- Proper fix:
- Clutch kit replacement and basic setting.
06 / 07
Common fault codes on the Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120
07 / 07
Frequently asked questions
How much engine oil does the Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 take?
The Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 (EA288 1.6 TDI) takes about 4.3 litres of engine oil including the filter. Recommended viscosity is 5W-30; look for the VW 507.00 approval. Check the level on the dipstick after filling.
When should the timing belt on the Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 be replaced?
This engine uses a timing belt. Manufacturer interval around 210,000 km; in practice 150,000 km / 6 years. The water pump is belt-driven; replace them together.
What tyre pressure should the Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 run?
With the original 215/60 R16 tyres, 36 PSI front and 36 PSI rear are recommended at normal load, and 38 front / 44 rear at full load. The exact values are on the door pillar or fuel flap sticker.
Is the Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120 suitable for LPG?
Not suitable, diesel engine. Classic LPG conversions are not done on diesel engines.
What are the common problems of the Passat B8 1.6 TDI 120?
The best-known problems are: DSG (DQ200) mechatronic failure, DSG dry clutch wear, EGR and DPF sooting. The symptoms and fix for each are explained on this page.
Other Volkswagen models
Values are approximate and may vary by engine and VIN. Check against your service manual before doing any work. ·