The Volkswagen Golf Mk7 1.6 TDI is one of the most widely used diesel engines in Europe, offering an excellent balance of fuel efficiency, reliability, and low maintenance costs. It is part of the EA288 engine family and is commonly found in fleet and private vehicles.

This complete technical guide covers all essential service data for the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 1.6 TDI, including fluids, capacities, torque specs, dimensions, and maintenance intervals.

Engine Specifications

  • Engine code family: EA288
  • Displacement: 1598 cm³
  • Power output: 90–115 HP (depending on version)
  • Fuel system: Common Rail direct injection
  • Turbocharger: Variable geometry turbo (VNT)
  • Cylinders: Inline 4
  • Valves per cylinder: 4
  • Emissions standard: Euro 5 / Euro 6

Engine Oil Specification

Correct oil is critical for DPF and turbo life.

Oil Type

  • SAE: 5W-30
  • VW Approval: VW 507.00 (LongLife III)

Oil Capacity

Service TypeCapacity
Oil + Filter Change4.3 L
Dry Engine Fill4.7 L

Oil Filter Information

  • Type: Cartridge filter
  • Housing torque: ~25 Nm
  • Recommended replacement: every oil change

Transmission Options

Manual Gearbox

  • 5-speed (MQ200)
  • 6-speed (MQ250 / MQ350 depending on version)

DSG Option (if equipped)

  • 7-speed DSG DQ200 (dry clutch)

Gearbox Oil Capacity

  • Manual: 1.7–2.0 L
  • DSG: ~1.7 L (lifetime fill in many versions, but recommended change every 60k km)

Cooling System

  • Coolant type: VW G12++ / G13
  • Total capacity: 5.5–6.0 L
  • Expansion tank pressure: ~1.2–1.5 bar system

Brake System

  • Fluid type: DOT 4 LV (VW standard)
  • Replacement interval: every 2 years

Brake disc sizes (common)

  • Front: 276–288 mm (depending on trim)
  • Rear: 253–272 mm

Fuel System

  • Fuel type: Diesel EN590
  • Tank capacity: 50 L
  • Fuel system pressure: up to 2000 bar (common rail)

Air Conditioning System

  • Refrigerant: R134a (early Mk7) / R1234yf (late Mk7.5)
  • Charge amount: 500–550 g
  • Compressor oil: PAG type

Dimensions and Weight

  • Length: 4258 mm
  • Width: 1799 mm
  • Height: 1452 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2637 mm
  • Curb weight: 1200–1350 kg (depending on equipment)

Suspension and Steering Torque Specs

  • Wheel bolts: 120 Nm
  • Front suspension bolts: 70–200 Nm (depending on joint)
  • Rear axle bolts: 90–200 Nm
  • Shock absorber top mount: 50–60 Nm

Engine Torque Specifications (Key Values)

  • Oil drain plug: 30 Nm
  • Glow plugs: 15 Nm
  • Injector hold-down bolt: 7 Nm + 180°
  • Turbo mounting bolts: 23–25 Nm
  • Flywheel bolts: angle-tightening (single-use)

Timing System

  • Type: Timing belt
  • Replacement interval: 180,000–210,000 km or 5–7 years
  • Water pump: recommended replacement with belt kit

OBD2 Diagnostic Information

  • OBD location: under dashboard, driver side
  • Common fault codes:
    • P0401 – EGR insufficient flow
    • P2002 – DPF efficiency low
    • P0299 – Turbo underboost
    • P0101 – MAF sensor range/performance

Service Intervals

  • Engine oil + filter: 15,000–30,000 km
  • Air filter: 30,000 km
  • Fuel filter: 30,000–60,000 km
  • Cabin filter: 15,000–30,000 km
  • Brake fluid: every 2 years
  • Timing belt: 180,000+ km

Reset Service Light

  • Turn ignition ON
  • Use dashboard menu (or VCDS tool)
  • Navigate: Service → Reset → Confirm
  • Or via OBD diagnostic tool

Wheel and Tire Data

  • Bolt pattern: 5×112
  • Center bore: 57.1 mm
  • Common tire sizes:
    • 195/65 R15
    • 205/55 R16
    • 225/45 R17

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Golf Mk7 1.6 TDI is a highly efficient diesel engine platform when maintained correctly. Using VW-approved oil (VW 507.00), timely DPF care, and proper service intervals significantly extends engine life and reduces repair costs.

Volkswagen Golf Mk7 1.6 TDI Specifications: Oil Capacity, Fluids, Service Intervals (2012–2020)