The Audi CANC is a 1,390 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2012. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA211 engine family, it features MPI (multi-point fuel injection), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and four valves per cylinder. Delivering 81 kW (110 PS) and 155 Nm of torque, it was engineered for compact urban vehicles requiring balanced fuel economy and responsive low-end performance.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A1 (8X) and SEAT Mii, the CANC engine was designed for city driving and light-duty use. Its naturally aspirated configuration provides smooth power delivery without turbo lag, while integrated cylinder head and exhaust manifold improve warm-up times. Emissions compliance with Euro 5 standards was achieved through precise air-fuel ratio control and a close-coupled catalytic converter, ensuring regulatory alignment across European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2011 145 01, is attributed to condensation buildup and oil contamination in the tensioner housing. In 2010, Audi introduced an updated tensioner design with improved sealing to enhance long-term reliability.
Production years 2008–2012 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CANC is a 1,390 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact urban applications (2008–2012). It combines MPI fuel delivery with a compact valvetrain to deliver smooth low-RPM response and stable idle quality. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it prioritizes simplicity, serviceability, and cost-effective ownership.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME 7.5.20 MPI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt with hydraulic tensioner | |
| Oil type | VW 502.00 / 505.00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 5-year or 150,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference damage. VW 502.00/505.00 oil ensures compatibility with emissions systems and reduces sludge formation. Extended idling or short journeys accelerate tensioner wear due to moisture accumulation. The MPI system tolerates lower-octane fuel but performs optimally on 95 RON (RON 95). Pre-2010 models should have the updated tensioner per Audi SIB 2011 145 01; failure to do so increases risk of belt derailment. Catalytic converter longevity depends on regular highway operation to maintain thermal cycling.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502.00 or 505.00 specification (Audi SIB 2011 145 01). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2008–2012) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across markets (Audi TIS Doc. A41301).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A41022, A41301, SIB 2011 145 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Audi CANC was used across Audi's 8X platform with transverse mounting and shared with SEAT and Volkswagen under Group platform agreements. This engine received model-specific tuning—slightly higher idle speed in the A1 for auto-stop/start functionality—and remained consistent through its lifecycle without major revisions. 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 A41022). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CANC in EU markets). Pre-2010 models have a silver timing cover with black camshaft seals; post-2010 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from TSI units: CANC uses a rubber timing belt with hydraulic tensioner and lacks turbocharging or direct injection. Service parts require production date verification—tensioners for models before 08/2010 are incompatible with revised units (Audi SIB 2011 145 01).
The CANC's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with frequent short trips. Internal Audi quality reports from 2011 indicated a notable share of pre-2010 engines requiring premature belt replacement, while UK DVSA records show timing-related failures as a leading cause of MOT rejection for small petrol Audis in this period. Cold starts and delayed maintenance increase belt and tensioner stress, making adherence to replacement intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CANC.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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