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-end performance.
Fitted primarily to the 8V A1 and 8V A3, the CAMA was engineered for drivers seeking economical city driving and agile throttle response. Its compact dimensions and lightweight construction contributed to improved weight distribution and reduced fuel consumption. Emissions compliance was achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run, with certain later variants meeting Euro 6 standards in specific markets.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 01 09 14, is linked to inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts. From 2014, Audi introduced revised tensioner geometry and updated oil pump calibration to improve oil flow and reduce wear incidence.
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 TSI turbocharged design delivers strong low-end pull ideal for city driving, but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to maintain turbo bearing and timing chain longevity. Audi Longlife 04 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and compatibility with the direct injection system. Early production units (pre-2014) are susceptible to timing chain wear under cold-start conditions; updated tensioner kits per Audi SIB 01 09 14 mitigate this risk. The high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality; use only EN 228-compliant petrol to prevent premature wear. Turbocharger reliability is high when oil flow and cooling are maintained.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 04 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 01 09 14). Replaces ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2011–2014 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 6 compliance from 2015 onward varies by market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 81 kW output requires 95 RON fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A36123).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A36123, SIB 01 09 14
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
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.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A36123). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CAMA series). Pre-2014 units have a silver intake manifold; post-2014 models use black. Critical differentiation from EA211 Gen 2: CAMA uses a single-row timing chain and lacks variable valve lift; EA211 Gen 2 uses a dual-row chain and features Valvelift. Service parts require production date verification—fuel injectors and ECUs are not interchangeable between pre- and post-facelift 8V models (Audi SIB 01 09 14).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CAMA.
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