The Volkswagen CAVA is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). This powertrain, part of the EA111 family, was engineered for responsiveness, delivering 125 kW (170 PS) and 240 Nm of torque, with turbocharging providing strong low‑rpm pull for spirited driving.
Fitted primarily to the Mk6 Golf GTI, Scirocco GT, and early Mk7 Golf GTI, the CAVA engine was designed for drivers seeking high performance from a compact displacement. Emissions compliance was managed through a three‑way catalytic converter and electronic engine management, meeting Euro 5 standards for its entire production run.
One documented concern involves potential premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, noted in Volkswagen Group Service Technical Information Bulletin 2039847/2. This issue, often linked to oil quality or extended service intervals, can cause a distinct rattle on cold start. Volkswagen later issued updated tensioner designs and revised maintenance schedules to address the concern.
Production years 2010–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Volkswagen CAVA is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for hot hatches and performance coupes (2010-2015). It combines gasoline direct injection (TSI) with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver aggressive acceleration and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances sporty performance with everyday fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (TSI), Bosch MED 17.5 ECU | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll (IHI VF34) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 107 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides aggressive throttle response but demands high-quality fuel (98 RON recommended) to prevent detonation and carbon buildup. Adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes using VW 504 00 spec oil is critical for turbo and chain longevity. The timing chain is designed as maintenance-free but can stretch or develop tensioner rattle if oil changes are neglected. The high-pressure fuel system is robust but sensitive to fuel quality; using poor-grade fuel can lead to injector clogging and reduced performance. Regular carbon cleaning of the intake system is recommended for high-mileage engines.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner's Manual). 504 00 is preferred for extended intervals.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CAVA production years (2010-2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 98 RON fuel for optimal performance and safety (Volkswagen SSP 424).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 424, 823
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
The Volkswagen CAVA was used across Volkswagen's Golf and Scirocco performance platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts and revised cooling in the Golf GTI-and shared its core architecture with performance variants of the Seat Leon Cupra and Škoda Octavia vRS. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface at the front of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Volkswagen SSP 424). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for Volkswagen Group vehicles. The CAVA engine can be visually identified by its plastic intake manifold with 'TSI' branding and the specific IHI VF34 twin-scroll turbocharger. Critical differentiation from the CAVE engine: CAVA produces 125kW, while CAVE produces 132kW in later Mk7 applications; ECU part numbers and boost pressure settings differ. Always verify the engine code stamp before ordering parts.
The CAVA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using incorrect oil or exceeding service intervals. Internal Volkswagen data indicated a notable failure rate before 100,000 km under these conditions, while high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) issues, though less common than in earlier TSI engines, can still occur. Oil quality and strict adherence to service schedules are critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2011-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CAVA.
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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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