The 1.2-liter turbocharged Volkswagen CBZA 1.2 TSI engine was assembled from 2010 to 2015 and installed on such popular concern models as the Caddy 3, the sixth generation Golf. Also, this power unit is often found under the hood of the Audi A1, Skoda Roomster or Fabia.
EA111-TSI family: CBZA, CBZB, BMY, BWK, CAVA, CAVD, CAXA, CDGA, CTHA.
Specifications
| Production years | 2010-2015 |
| Displacement, cc | 1197 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 86 |
| Torque output, Nm | 160 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 71 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 75.6 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | IHI 1634 |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.8 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 5 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Caddy 2013) — city — highway — combined |
8.1 6.0 6.8 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 102 |
The engine was installed on:
- Audi A1 1 (8X) in 2010 – 2014;
- Seat Toledo 4 (KG) in 2012 – 2015;
- Skoda Fabia 2 (5J) in 2010 – 2014;
- Skoda Roomster 1 (5J) in 2010 – 2015;
- Volkswagen Caddy 3 (2K) in 2010 – 2015;
- Volkswagen Golf 6 (5K) in 2010 – 2012.
Disadvantages of the VW CBZA engine
- The first years of production, the timing chain resource ranged from 30 to 50 thousand kilometers.
- A reinforced version of the chain runs about 100,000 km, but jumps when stretched.
- Turbine geometry and wastegate control drive has low reliability.
- Many owners of cars with such a motor note vibrations at idle.
- Also on specialized forums they often complain about a very long warm-up in the cold season.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen CBZA
How much power does the Volkswagen CBZA make?
The Volkswagen CBZA develops 86 hp and 160 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen CBZA take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.8 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Volkswagen CBZA have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen CBZA uses a timing chain.
Is the Volkswagen CBZA turbocharged?
Yes, the Volkswagen CBZA is turbocharged (IHI 1634).
Does the Volkswagen CBZA need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen CBZA has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen CBZA last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen CBZA is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen CBZA?
VW Caddy 2013: city 8.1, highway 6.0, combined 6.8 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen CBZA installed on?
Audi A1 1 (8X) in 2010 - 2014; Seat Toledo 4 (KG) in 2012 - 2015; Skoda Fabia 2 (5J) in 2010 - 2014; Skoda Roomster 1 (5J) in 2010 - 2015; Volkswagen Caddy 3 (2K) in 2010 - 2015; Volkswagen Golf 6 (5K) in 2010 - 2012.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen CBZA?
The first years of production, the timing chain resource ranged from 30 to 50 thousand kilometers. A reinforced version of the chain runs about 100,000 km, but jumps when stretched. All known problems.






The CBZA and CBZB engines, with 85 and 105hp respectively, had a timing chain that was infamous for stretching and casuing failures. The 1.2 TSI CJZC and CJZD, 90 and 110hp respectively had belts
Hi,
I’m a bit confused… Your excellent article on the CBZA engine mentions a timing chain. I can see mine has a long belt. Am I correct and do you know the replacement interval time or mileage for this, please?
Thankyou
Brian T
Perhaps for some countries these engines were also produced with a timing belt, but I know nothing about this.