The Audi CAJA is a 1,798 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2016. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard output form it delivers 125 kW (170 PS), with torque of 250 Nm, engineered for responsive urban performance and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8V), A4 (B8), and Q3 (8U), including 1.8 TFSI 170 PS variants, the CAJA engine was designed to balance driving dynamics with fuel economy across compact and mid-size Audi platforms. Emissions compliance was achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control system, meeting Euro 5 standards for all production years depending on market specification.
One documented reliability concern is premature timing chain wear, particularly in early-production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2013-10-01, is associated with inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts. From 2014, revised tensioner design and updated oil pump components were implemented to improve durability.
All production years (2012–2016) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CAJA is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2012-2016). It combines TSI direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances everyday drivability with fuel efficiency across mixed driving conditions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 4,800–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; wear-prone in early units) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The CAJA engine provides strong mid-range torque ideal for daily driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) to maintain timing chain and turbo longevity. Early-production engines (pre-2014) are susceptible to chain wear due to insufficient oil flow at startup; updated tensioner and oil pump components per Audi SIB 2013-10-01 mitigate this risk. The direct injection system is prone to intake valve coking in short-trip driving, necessitating periodic walnut blasting. Turbo response is strong but sensitive to delayed shutdown after high-load operation. Emissions systems require regular highway runs to maintain catalyst efficiency.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) specification (Audi SIB 2013-10-01). Replaces ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 compliance confirmed for all model years (2012–2016) per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 125 kW output requires 95 RON fuel minimum (Audi TIS Doc. A42005).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A41290, A41502, SIB 2013-10-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CAJA was used across Audi's 8V/B8/8U platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive configurations. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the A3 and revised cooling routing in the Q3-and from 2014, the facelifted B8 A4 adopted updated emissions calibration, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A41850). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 1.8 TFSI variants). Pre-2014 units have silver valve covers; post-2014 models use black. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 3: CAJA uses front-mounted chain with earlier tensioner design. Service parts require model-year verification—timing kits for pre-2014 engines are not compatible with post-2014 revisions due to tensioner and oil pump updates (Audi SIB 2013-10-01).
The CAJA's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear in early-production units, with elevated incidence in mixed urban driving. Internal Audi field reports from 2014 noted increased chain guide failures in vehicles with frequent short trips, while UK DVSA MOT data links a notable share of emissions-related failures to catalyst degradation in city-driven A3 and Q3 models. Extended service intervals and stop-start cycles exacerbate chain and emissions wear, making maintenance adherence and oil quality critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CAJA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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