The Volkswagen CASB is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), a single turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This compact unit was engineered for efficiency and responsiveness in Volkswagen's MQB platform vehicles, delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 250 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the Mk7 Golf and related models like the Audi A3 (8V) and SEAT León (5F), the CASB was designed for drivers prioritizing fuel economy without sacrificing mid-range pull. Emissions compliance for Euro 5 standards was achieved through technologies like variable valve timing and precise fuel metering.
One documented concern involves potential high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, noted in Volkswagen Group Service Bulletin TSB 2043078/1. This issue is often linked to extended service intervals or fuel quality. Volkswagen addressed this through revised maintenance protocols and, in some cases, updated pump hardware for later production runs.
Production years 2012–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Volkswagen CASB is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (2012-2015). It combines direct injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive performance and good fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday usability with spirited driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (TSI), Bosch HDEV5 high-pressure pump | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger (IHI or BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 120 kg |
The turbocharged TSI design provides strong mid-range torque ideal for overtaking but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil change intervals using VW 504 00 specification oil to protect the turbo and high-pressure fuel system. Extended oil service can accelerate wear on the timing chain tensioner and HPFP. The engine demands high-quality 95 RON (EU) petrol to prevent pre-ignition and maintain performance. HPFP failures, while not universal, are a known risk; using premium fuel and proactive replacement per TSB 2043078/1 can mitigate this. The chain-driven timing system is designed to last the engine's life but relies on clean oil for lubrication.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). 504 00 is preferred for extended intervals.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CASB production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output requires 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen SSP 507).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 507
Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin (TSB): 2043078/1
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
The Volkswagen CASB was used across Volkswagen Group's MQB platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shared ECU calibrations with the Audi A3 and identical mounting points in the SEAT León-creating broad parts compatibility within the group. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing chain cover (Volkswagen SSP 507). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for Group vehicles. Visually, the CASB can be identified by its plastic intake manifold and the '1.4 TSI' badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from the higher-powered 150 PS variant (CAAD) is the engine code stamp and ECU software; core hardware like the turbocharger and injectors are often identical but require matching ECU maps. Always verify the engine code before ordering parts.
The CASB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles using lower-grade fuel or exceeding service intervals. Internal Volkswagen data indicated a measurable failure rate before 100,000 km in non-compliant cases, while owner reports frequently cite fuel quality as a factor. Extended oil change intervals and use of substandard petrol make adherence to OEM maintenance and fuel specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012-2016) and aggregated European owner association data (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CASB.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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