The Volkswagen CBZB is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing, delivering 155 kW (211 PS) and 280 Nm of torque. Its turbocharged direct injection system enables strong low‑rpm torque for responsive everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Mk5 and Mk6 Golf R, Scirocco R, and Audi S3 (8P), the CBZB was engineered for high performance with daily usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a combination of three‑way catalytic converter and secondary air injection, meeting Euro 5 standards across all markets.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, which can lead to hard starts or limp mode. This issue, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2012‑07, is often linked to infrequent oil changes and fuel quality below EN 228 standards. From 2011, revised HPFP internals were introduced to improve durability.
All production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CBZB is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for high‑performance hatchbacks and coupes (2008–2015). It combines direct fuel injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and high‑rev responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances track‑capable output with daily usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (EN 228) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,800–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 120 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Single K04 turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; durable design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 149 kg |
The K04 turbo and direct injection provide crisp throttle response and strong mid‑range torque but demand high‑quality EN 228 petrol and regular oil changes every 10,000–15,000 km to prevent HPFP wear and carbon buildup on intake valves. VW 502 00/505 00 (5W‑40) oil is critical due to its high‑temperature stability for turbo and timing chain protection. Extended idling or frequent short trips accelerate carbon accumulation. Post‑2011 engines feature updated HPFP components per SIB 2012‑07. The timing chain is robust but requires proper oil viscosity to maintain tensioner function.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W‑40) specification (Volkswagen SIB 2012‑07). Not compatible with Longlife‑12 FE+ oils.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CBZB engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires 98 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 06K‑210).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 06K‑101, 06K‑102, 06K‑103, SIB 2012‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Volkswagen CBZB was used across Volkswagen's Mk5/Mk6 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Audi for transverse applications in performance models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Golf R and revised intercooler routing in the Scirocco R-and from 2011 the Audi S3 received HPFP updates, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships enabled Audi's 2.0 TFSI to share core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (Volkswagen TIS 06K‑105). The 4th and 5th VIN digits identify engine family ('CB' for 06K series). CBZB units feature red valve covers and a K04 turbo with integrated diverter valve. Critical differentiation from CAEB/CAXC: CBZB uses a 280 Nm torque map and unique ECU part number 06K 906 032 CB. HPFP part number 06F 127 025 F indicates post‑2011 revision. Service parts require ECU and HPFP verification per SIB 2012‑07.
The CBZB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using low-quality fuel or extended oil intervals. Volkswagen internal data from 2013 indicated a measurable increase in HPFP replacements before 80,000 km in non‑compliant maintenance cases, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Infrequent oil changes and sub‑98 RON fuel accelerate HPFP cam follower wear, making fuel quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2010–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CBZB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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