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…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CFKA is generally reliable when maintained properly, though early units (2012-2014) are prone to timing chain tensioner wear. Post-2015 revisions with updated tensioners and oil calibration improve durability. Regular oil changes with VW 502 00/505 00 oil and intake valve cleaning significantly extend service life. Well-maintained engines can exceed 200,000 km.
The most frequent issues are timing chain tensioner wear, intake valve coking due to direct injection, turbo wastegate sticking, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are documented in Audi service bulletins. Using correct oil and regular servicing reduces occurrence.
The CFKA engine was used in the Audi A1 (8X, 2012–2018) and A3 (8V, 2013–2019) as the 1.4 TFSI 110 PS variant. It replaced earlier 1.4 TFSI units and was phased out in favour of the 1.5 TSI. Euro 5 models (pre-2015) have different emissions tuning than Euro 6 versions (2015+).
Yes, the CFKA responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically yield +25–35 kW safely, as the stock turbo and internals handle increased boost. Some tuners offer up to 150 PS with supporting mods. However, over-tuning can accelerate timing and turbo wear, so conservative tuning and maintenance are advised.
Excellent for its class. In an A3 1.4 TFSI (110 PS), combined consumption is ~5.1 L/100km (~55 mpg UK). Highway driving achieves ~4.5 L/100km (~62 mpg UK), while city use ranges 6.0–7.0 L/100km (~40–47 mpg UK). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but 45–55 mpg UK is typical for mixed use.
Yes. The CFKA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic internal damage. The chain is durable but should be inspected if rattling occurs, especially on cold start. Any timing-related noise warrants immediate inspection.
Audi specifies VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) synthetic oil. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 1 year. This oil is critical for turbo, timing chain, and fuel system longevity. Using non-compliant oil increases wear and voids emissions-related warranty coverage.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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