The Audi CCBA is a 1,390 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2012. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection, and a naturally aspirated design, delivering reliable performance for compact Audi models. In standard tune, it produces 55 kW (75 PS) with 125 Nm of torque, emphasizing fuel efficiency and low maintenance for urban driving.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A1 (8X) and Audi A3 (8P) entry-level trims, the CCBA engine was engineered for economical city commuting and light-duty use. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 4 compliance across all production years with some later units meeting Euro 5 standards depending on market.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in vehicles with extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 01 10 11, is attributed to insufficient tensioner spring preload under thermal cycling. From 2010, revised tensioner components were introduced to improve belt longevity and reduce slippage risk.

Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2012 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CCBA is a 1,390 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact models (2008–2012). It combines multi-point fuel injection with DOHC valvetrain to deliver smooth, responsive performance in urban environments. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and select Euro 5) standards, it prioritizes fuel economy and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replaced every 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Use of VW 502 00-specified 5W-30 oil is essential to maintain hydraulic tensioner performance and reduce wear. Extended idling in stop-start traffic may accelerate tensioner degradation due to thermal cycling. Fuel quality should meet EN 228 standards to ensure longevity of lambda sensors and catalytic converter. Post-2010 models benefit from updated tensioner hardware; pre-2010 units should follow Audi TSB 01 10 11 for inspection and replacement.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi TSB 01 10 11). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2010–2012 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output remains consistent across markets (Audi TIS Doc. A18230).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18230, A18544, TSB 01 10 11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CCBA was used across Audi's 8P/8X platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Seat and Skoda for compact applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised ECU tuning in the A3-and from 2010 the facelifted A3 Sportback adopted updated emissions calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships enabled shared production at the VW Group plant in Spain. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A18300). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for 1.4L MPI units). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with black intake manifolds; post-2010 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.4 TFSI: CCBA has no turbocharger or intercooler, and uses MPI instead of direct injection. Service parts require production date verification - timing belts for pre-2010 models are not compatible with post-facelift units due to tensioner redesign (Audi TSB 01 10 11).
The CCBA's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal Audi quality reports from 2011 noted increased belt slippage in pre-2010 units exceeding service intervals, while VCA records show a notable share of emissions-related MOT failures linked to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage examples. Extended idling and delayed maintenance increase tensioner and sensor stress, making timely servicing and correct oil specification critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008–2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CCBA.
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