The Volkswagen CBAB is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 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 103 kW (140 PS) and 220 Nm of torque, with turbocharging providing strong low‑rpm pull for dynamic driving.
Fitted primarily to the Mk6 Golf, Scirocco, and early Mk7 Golf, the CBAB engine was designed for drivers seeking a balance of spirited performance and compact efficiency. 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 2039850/5. 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 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
The Volkswagen CBAB is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatches and coupes (2008-2015). It combines gasoline direct injection (TSI) with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver brisk 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 | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 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 VF33) | |
| 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 strong mid-range torque but demands high-quality fuel (95 RON minimum, 98 RON recommended) to prevent carbon buildup and detonation. 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. 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 CBAB production years (2008-2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5682).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen SSP 424).
Volkswagen Self-Study Programme (SSP): 424, 823
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5682)
Volkswagen ETKA Parts Catalogue
The Volkswagen CBAB was used across Volkswagen's Golf and Scirocco platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Scirocco for sportier dynamics-and shared its core architecture with the Seat Leon and Škoda Octavia. 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 CBAB engine can be visually identified by its plastic intake manifold with 'TSI' branding and the specific IHI VF33 twin-scroll turbocharger. Critical differentiation from the CAVA engine: CBAB produces 103kW, while CAVA produces 125kW; ECU part numbers and boost pressure settings differ significantly. Always verify the engine code stamp before ordering parts.
The CBAB'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 (2010-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CBAB.
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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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