The Audi CFKA is a 1,395 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA211 engine family, designed for compact and subcompact applications. Featuring direct fuel injection (TSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and a turbocharger with intercooler, it delivers 81 kW (110 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, offering responsive performance in lightweight Audi models.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A1 (8X) and A3 (8V), the CFKA engine was engineered for urban efficiency and agile driving dynamics. It features a lightweight aluminium block, timing chain, and integrated exhaust manifold for rapid warm-up. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen sensor feedback, meeting Euro 5 standards in early models and Euro 6b in later variants depending on market and production date.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, which may lead to rattling noises and potential chain slippage. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2016-10-01, affects certain early-build units and is linked to oil flow restrictions under cold-start conditions. From 2015 onward, revised tensioner designs and updated oil pump calibration were implemented to improve lubrication and durability.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models comply with Euro 6b depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CFKA is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact models (2012–2019). It combines TSI direct injection with a compact turbocharger and integrated exhaust manifold to deliver strong low-end torque and quick throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it balances urban drivability with emissions efficiency.
| 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 HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6b (2015–2019) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner), air-cooled intercooler | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, single-stage) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 97 kg |
The CFKA delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00/505 00 oil to prevent timing chain and turbo wear. The integrated exhaust manifold enables rapid warm-up but increases thermal load on the cylinder head. Premature timing chain tensioner wear is documented in early units; Audi SIB 2016-10-01 mandates inspection and updated tensioner installation. The direct injection system is prone to intake valve coking in short-trip usage; periodic walnut blasting is recommended. The engine is sensitive to low-quality fuel, risking pre-ignition and knock sensor faults.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 specification (Audi SIB 2013-10-01). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to pre-2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 6b compliance from 2015 varies by market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output maintained on regular unleaded (RON 95) per Audi TIS Doc. A34610.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34610, SIB 2013-10-01, SIB 2016-10-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CFKA was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive configurations. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated exhaust manifold in the A1 and revised intake routing in the A3-and from 2015 the facelifted A3 8V.5 adopted Euro 6-compliant tuning with updated emissions calibration, creating interchange 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 A34612). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CFKA series). Pre-2015 models feature Euro 5 emissions calibration; post-2015 units have Euro 6b tuning. Critical differentiation from EA211 variants: CFKA uses Bosch HDEV5 injectors and a front-mounted chain. Service parts require model year verification—timing tensioners for pre-2015 units are not compatible with later revisions (Audi SIB 2016-10-01).
The CFKA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, particularly in early-build units, with elevated incidence in cold climates and short-trip driving. Audi's internal field reports from 2017 indicated over 20% of pre-2015 units required tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows increased engine-related MOT failures in stop-start petrol vehicles. Infrequent oil changes and low oil quality exacerbate wear, making adherence to service intervals and correct oil specification critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CFKA.
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