The popular Caravelle and Transporter T5 minibuses were equipped with the 1.9-liter Volkswagen AXB 1.9 TDI diesel engine, which was manufactured between 2003 and 2009. Such a diesel engine is now widely used.
AJM, ASZ, AUY, AVB, AVF, AWX, AXB, AXC, BKC, BLS, and BXE are also included in the EA188-1.9 series.
Specifications
| Production years | 1992-2003 |
| Displacement, cc | 1896 |
| Fuel system | unit-injectors |
| Power output, hp | 105 |
| Torque output, Nm | 250 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 79.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 95.5 |
| Compression ratio | 18.5 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | yes |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 5.8 |
| Fuel type | diesel |
| Euro standards | EURO 3/4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Transporter 2006) — city — highway — combined |
9.5 6.7 7.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~330 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Volkswagen Caravelle T5 (7H) in 2003 – 2009;
- Volkswagen Transporter T5 (7H) in 2003 – 2009.
Disadvantages of the VW AXB engine
This engine is not very powerful; the minibus accelerates up to 100 miles per hour in nearly 20 seconds; reliability is good; breakdowns only occur at high mileage; hydraulic lifters and camshafts can wear out quickly due to low-quality oil; fastening nozzles with a single bolt loosen over time and leaks appear; servicemen mention the turbine and tandem pump as possible weak points of the engine.