For anyone interested, here's the new Tech Bulletin from the brainiac engineers at VW:
"Subject: Engine Oil, Special Requirement Model(s): All with 1.9L TDI - Eng. Code BEW - 2004
Condition: The 1.9L TDI engine (BEW) requires and must always use special synthetic engine oil that expressly conforms to VW Oil Standard -505 01.
Service: The only engine oil which currently meets the standard is Part # G
052 187 A2, (a special 5W40 synthetic motor oil).Part # G 052 187 A2 is only available at authorized VW and Audi dealers. (snip...)
Engine damage caused by using the wrong engine oil will not be covered by the Limited New Vehicle Warranty."
How convenient, eh? Hope the aftermarket steps up, since the amount of the special oil needed for an oil change will run ~$90 at the dealer.
Jason in Albuquerque