The Audi CAEA is a 1,395 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a turbocharged design with direct fuel injection (TSI), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard tune, it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end responsiveness and efficient performance.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A3 (8V), A4 (B8), and A6 (C7) models, including the 1.4 TFSI and 1.8 TFSI variants in certain markets, the CAEA engine was engineered for balanced drivability across urban and highway conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, lambda control, and an integrated exhaust manifold, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 20 12 15, is attributed to insufficient oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. Audi introduced revised tensioner components and updated oil change intervals in 2014 to mitigate the risk.
All models meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CAEA is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2012–2018). It combines TSI direct injection with dual VVT and an integrated exhaust manifold to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved thermal efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,000–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Turbocharged Stratified Injection (TSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; tensioner wear concern) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 01 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The turbocharged TSI design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for daily driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Audi Longlife 01 (5W-40) oil is essential due to its viscosity profile supporting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and short trips can accelerate wear due to inadequate oil circulation. The TSI fuel system is sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves; regular induction cleaning is recommended. Post-2014 models feature updated tensioner hardware; pre-2014 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 20 12 15. Integrated exhaust manifold improves warm-up efficiency but increases thermal stress on cylinder heads.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 01 (5W-40) specification (Audi SIB 20 12 15). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: All CAEA engines comply with Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (Audi TIS Doc. A32010).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31600, A32010, SIB 20 12 15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Audi CAEA was used across Audi's 8V/B8/C7 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with SEAT and Škoda in European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised ECU mappings in the A4-and from 2014 the facelifted A3 models adopted updated tensioner hardware, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed SEAT Leon and Škoda Octavia to use the same base engine with minor tuning differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A31710). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for CAEA series). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA211 variants: CAEA engine uses integrated exhaust manifold and TSI injection, while EA211 1.4T uses separate manifold. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 06/2014 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Audi SIB 20 12 15).
The CAEA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 indicated a significant number of pre-2014 engines required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in stop-start traffic. Cold-start cycles and low oil pressure exacerbate guide wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CAEA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with AUDI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
AUDI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
