The 1.4-liter turbocharged Volkswagen CTHA 1.4 TSI engine was assembled from 2010 to 2015 and put on a restyled version of the popular Tiguan crossover, as well as Sharan and Jetta. This unit belonged to the updated series and was significantly more reliable than its predecessors.
EA111-TSI family: CBZA, CBZB, BMY, BWK, CAVA, CAVD, CAXA, CDGA, CTHA.
Specifications
| Production years | 2010-2015 |
| Displacement, cc | 1390 |
| Fuel system | direct injection |
| Power output, hp | 150 |
| Torque output, Nm | 240 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 76.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 75.6 |
| Compression ratio | 10.0 |
| Features | DOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | on the intake shaft |
| Turbocharging | KKK K03 & Eaton TVS |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.6 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 5 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for VW Tiguan 2012) — city — highway — combined |
10.1 6.7 8.0 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~270 000 |
| Weight, kg | 130 |
The engine was installed on:
- Volkswagen Jetta 6 (1B) in 2010 – 2015;
- Volkswagen Sharan 2 (7N) in 2010 – 2015;
- Volkswagen Tiguan 1 (5N) in 2011 – 2015.
Disadvantages of the VW CTHA engine
- The main problems of this engine are related to detonation due to fuel quality.
- Often the pistons simply crack and then it is recommended to replace them with forged ones.
- The unit is prone to carbon formation on the valves, which is why the compression drops.
- The timing chain has a modest resource, it can stretch up to 100 thousand km.
- Often the electronic control valve fails and a little less often the wastegate of the turbine.
- Even on specialized forums, many complain about frequent antifreeze leaks in the intercooler area.
Frequently asked questions about the Volkswagen CTHA
How much power does the Volkswagen CTHA make?
The Volkswagen CTHA develops 150 hp and 240 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Volkswagen CTHA take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.6 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Volkswagen CTHA have a timing belt or chain?
The Volkswagen CTHA uses a timing chain.
Is the Volkswagen CTHA turbocharged?
Yes, the Volkswagen CTHA is turbocharged (KKK K03 & Eaton TVS).
Does the Volkswagen CTHA need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Volkswagen CTHA has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Volkswagen CTHA last?
The typical lifespan of the Volkswagen CTHA is ~270 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Volkswagen CTHA?
VW Tiguan 2012: city 10.1, highway 6.7, combined 8.0 L/100 km.
What cars was the Volkswagen CTHA installed on?
Volkswagen Jetta 6 (1B) in 2010 - 2015; Volkswagen Sharan 2 (7N) in 2010 - 2015; Volkswagen Tiguan 1 (5N) in 2011 - 2015.
What are the common problems of the Volkswagen CTHA?
The main problems of this engine are related to detonation due to fuel quality. Often the pistons simply crack and then it is recommended to replace them with forged ones. All known problems.





