The Audi CDAA is a 1,395 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and a single-scroll turbocharger. In standard tune, it delivers 81 kW (110 PS) at 5,000 rpm and 200 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 3,900 rpm, making it a responsive and efficient unit for urban and suburban driving.
Fitted to models such as the A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and SEAT Ibiza FR, the CDAA was engineered for compact vehicle packaging, fuel efficiency, and low-end responsiveness. Emissions compliance was achieved via a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run. The engine's compact dimensions and transverse mounting enabled use in front-wheel-drive platforms with minimal space requirements.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early-build units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2012-10-07, is linked to inadequate oil flow during cold starts. From 2013, revised tensioner geometry and updated oilway design were implemented to improve lubrication and reduce failure incidence.
All CDAA engines meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CDAA is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for compact and subcompact models (2010–2016). It combines TSI direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive city driving performance. Engineered to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances real-world efficiency with drivability in lightweight Audi platforms.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (single-scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–3,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI IS20 single-scroll turbo | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The single-scroll turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) to protect the timing chain system. The Bosch HDEV5 injection system is sensitive to low-quality fuel, necessitating use of premium unleaded (RON 95/min) to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. Timing chain inspection is recommended at 120,000 km; early models should verify tensioner condition per Audi TSB 2012-10-07. The engine's compact size allows for transverse mounting in tight engine bays, but limited service access increases labour time for major work. Post-2013 revisions improved oilway design, reducing cold-start wear.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) specification (Audi TIS A35800). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1-08.
Emissions: All CDAA engines comply with Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across markets with RON 95 fuel (Audi Group PT-2023).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35200, A35500, A35800, TSB 2012-10-07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CDAA was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen and SEAT. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised ECU tuning in the A3-and from 2013 the facelifted A3 8V adopted updated tensioner geometry, creating service part incompatibility. Partnerships enabled Volkswagen's 1.4 TSI and SEAT's 1.4 TSI to use identical core architecture. 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 A35800). The 7th digit of the VIN identifies the engine family ('C' for CDAA series). All models use a black valve cover. Critical differentiation from CAVF: CDAA uses Bosch HDEV5 injection with blue high-pressure lines, while CAVF uses Delphi HDEV6 with red lines. Service parts require model-year verification—timing chains for pre-2013 A1 are not interchangeable with post-2013 A3 due to tensioner redesign (Audi TSB 2012-10-07).
The CDAA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear in early-build engines, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi service reports from 2014 indicated a notable number of tensioner failures before 100,000 km in vehicles consistently used for city driving, while UK DVSA records show secondary air injection faults contributing to emissions test failures in high-mileage A1s. Cold-start cycles and poor fuel quality increase stress on the chain and injection system, making oil discipline and fuel quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CDAA.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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