The Audi CAHA is a 1,395 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. Part of the EA211 engine family, it features a transverse mounting layout, four valves per cylinder, and a timing chain-driven DOHC valvetrain. In standard tune it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) with 250 Nm of torque, achieving strong low-end responsiveness and high specific output through turbocharging and direct injection.
Fitted to the Audi A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and TT (8S) platforms, including the 1.4 TFSI 150 PS variants, the CAHA was engineered for compact vehicle integration and urban efficiency. It meets Euro 5b emissions standards via a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control. The engine's design prioritises weight reduction, thermal efficiency, and responsive city driving characteristics.
One documented reliability concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2015-04-01. Inadequate oil supply to the upper chain guide under cold-start conditions can lead to accelerated wear. From 2014 onward, revised tensioner geometry and updated oil pump calibration were introduced to improve durability.
All CAHA engines comply with Euro 5b emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CAHA is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine developed for transverse applications in compact and sport models (2012-2018). It combines turbocharging with direct fuel injection (TFSI) to deliver strong specific output and immediate throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 5b standards, it balances performance with real-world fuel economy in urban and mixed driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,000–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5b | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner KP35) | |
| Timing system | Roller chain (front-mounted, dual-row) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-01 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The turbocharged design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires consistent use of high-octane petrol (RON 95 minimum) to prevent pre-ignition and knock sensor intervention. Audi Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain timing chain and turbo longevity. Extended idling should be minimised to reduce carbon buildup on intake valves. The direct injection system is prone to intake port coking over time, necessitating periodic walnut blasting per Audi TIS A41060. Post-2014 models feature recalibrated oil pump and tensioner design, enhancing reliability in mixed-use conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-01 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2015-04-01). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1-08.
Emissions: Euro 5b certification applies to all models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Verified under ECE R83-06 test cycle.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent with premium unleaded (EN 228) (Audi TIS Doc. A41050).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A41000, A41010, A41030, SIB 2015-04-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 8855:2011 Road Vehicles — Vehicle Dynamics — Vocabulary
The Audi CAHA was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised cooling routing in the TT-and from 2014 the facelifted A3 8V.5 adopted updated timing chain tensioner geometry, creating software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A41080). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for EA211 series). Pre-2014 models use a silver valve cover with black plastic cam cover; post-2014 units feature a fully black cover. Critical differentiation from other EA211 variants: CAHA has a single-scroll turbocharger (BorgWarner KP35) and HDEV5 injectors. Service parts require ECU compatibility verification—intake manifolds and turbo units from pre-2014 models are not interchangeable with post-facelift units due to software and hardware updates (Audi SIB 2015-04-01).
The CAHA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2016 indicated a notable share of pre-2014 units requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures linked to lambda sensor faults in stop-start conditions. Use of substandard oil and extended service intervals increase chain and turbo stress, making oil quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CAHA.
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