The Audi CAMA is a 1,395 cc, inline — four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2011 and 2018. Part of the Volkswagen Group EA211 engine family, it features a transverse layout, double overhead camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, and direct fuel injection (TSI). In standard tune it produced 81 kW (110 PS), with peak torque of 200 Nm available from 1,500 rpm, making it suitable for compact urban applications with emphasis on fuel efficiency and responsive low…
Production years 2011–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CAMA is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for compact platforms (2011–2018). It integrates TSI direct injection with a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver strong low-RPM torque and responsive urban performance. Engineered to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances efficiency with everyday drivability.
| 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 | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,000–6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch MED 9.1.1 direct injection (TSI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2011–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | IHI IS12 turbocharger with electronic boost control | |
Timing system | Timing chain (single-row, interference design) | |
Oil type | Audi Longlife 04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 97 kg |
The Audi CAMA was used across Audi's 8V platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the 8V A1 and revised cooling layouts in the 8V A3-and from 2015 the facelifted 8V models adopted revised ECU calibrations for improved emissions, creating minor compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CAMA's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Audi field reports from 2013 indicated over 25% of city-driven units required chain inspection before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links a notable share of misfire-related failures to timing correlation faults. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2011–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CAMA offers good efficiency and solid build quality, but long-term reliability depends on maintenance. Early units (pre-2014) are prone to timing chain wear if oil changes are delayed. Models maintained with regular oil changes, quality fuel, and proper warm-up routines can exceed 150,000 km reliably. Avoid prolonged idling and short trips to minimize deposit formation and wear.
The most documented issues are timing chain wear (especially pre-2014), turbo boost control faults, and high-pressure fuel pump failure. Intake valve coking and occasional coil pack failures are also reported. These are covered in Audi service bulletins, emphasizing the importance of preventative maintenance and using correct oil specifications.
The CAMA engine was used in the Audi A1 (8V) from 2011–2018 and the A3 (8V) from 2012–2018. It was marketed as the 1.4 TFSI and delivered 110 PS in all applications. It was succeeded by updated EA211 evo variants in later model years with improved efficiency and emissions.
Yes, the CAMA responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically achieve 140–150 PS safely, as the stock turbo and internals are robust. Supporting mods like intercooler and exhaust upgrades allow higher outputs. Tuning should use quality fuel (95 RON) and maintain strict service intervals to avoid reliability issues, especially on early chain-equipped models.
Real-world consumption averages 6.5–7.5 L/100km (36–43 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway runs can achieve ~5.8 L/100km (49 mpg UK), while city driving may reach 8.0 L/100km (35 mpg UK). Aggressive driving significantly reduces efficiency due to high fuel flow under boost, but overall it remains one of Audi's most efficient 4-cylinder petrol engines.
Yes, the CAMA uses an interference timing chain design. If the chain or tensioner fails, valve-to-piston contact is likely, resulting in severe internal engine damage. That is why any rattling noise at cold start must be investigated immediately to prevent catastrophic failure.
Audi specifies SAE 5W-30 oil meeting Audi Longlife 04 specification. Use only VW 502 00 or 505 00-compliant synthetic oil. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 1 year to protect the turbocharger, HPFP, and timing system, especially on pre-2014 models with known chain wear tendencies.
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.
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