The Volkswagen CDAA is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features gasoline direct injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on the intake cam. In standard form it delivered 90 kW (122 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, with responsive low‑end performance ideal for compact vehicles.
Fitted to models such as the Mk6 Golf, Polo, Scirocco, and Škoda Fabia, the CDAA was engineered for urban agility and…
All production years (2008–2015) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Volkswagen CDAA is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and subcompact models (2008–2015). It combines gasoline direct injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with fuel economy and drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
Power output | 90 kW (122 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch TSI direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single turbo (Honeywell GT1241V) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted; tensioner‑prone) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 102 kg |
The Volkswagen CDAA was used across Volkswagen's PQ25/PQ35 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and SEAT under the VAG group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-lightweight mounts in the Polo and revised cooling in the Scirocco-and from 2012 the updated tensioner design created minor interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Škoda's 1.4 TSI and SEAT's 1.4 TSI units to share core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CDAA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or short-trip urban use. VW internal data from 2011 indicated a notable share of pre-2012 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased timing-related MOT advisories in 1.4 TSI engines. Extended oil intervals and cold-start cycles accelerate wear, making oil specification and change frequency critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2009–2014) 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 CDAA offers good urban performance and efficiency, but early models (2008–2011) are prone to timing chain tensioner issues. Later revisions (post-2012) improved durability. With strict oil changes (5W-40 VW 502 00) and avoidance of frequent short trips, well-maintained examples can exceed 180,000 km reliably.
Top issues include timing chain tensioner wear (causing rattle), intake valve carbon buildup, PCV valve failure leading to oil leaks, and turbo wastegate rattle. All are documented in VW service bulletins and widely observed in field data.
The CDAA powered the Polo 6R (2009–2014), Golf Mk6 (2009–2012), Scirocco Mk3 (2008–2015), Škoda Fabia Mk2 (2008–2014), and SEAT Ibiza Mk4 (2008–2015). It was part of the VAG 1.4 TSI family used across compact platforms.
Yes. The CDAA responds well to ECU remapping, with Stage 1 typically yielding 140–150 PS safely. Stock internals handle up to ~240 Nm reliably. Upgraded intercooler and exhaust support higher outputs. Always use RON 98 fuel and monitor oil condition closely after tuning.
In a Polo 1.4 TSI (2010), expect ~7.2 L/100km (city), ~4.8 L/100km (highway), or ~47 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 42–50 mpg UK. Economy suffers if carbon buildup restricts airflow or if driven aggressively.
Yes. The CDAA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, causing catastrophic damage. However, the chain is generally robust if oil maintenance is followed.
Volkswagen specifies 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 (petrol) or 505 00 (diesel-compatible) standards. Never use Longlife or non-approved oils, as incorrect additives accelerate tensioner and chain wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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