The Volkswagen CEBB is a 1,390 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), a single-scroll turbocharger, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and delivers 90 kW (122 PS) with 200 Nm of torque. The engine’s compact displacement and turbocharging enable brisk urban performance while maintaining competitive fuel economy for its class.
Fitted to models such as the Polo, Fabia, Ibiza, and Roomster, the CEBB was engineered for entry-level buyers seeking modern efficiency and low CO₂ emissions. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise direct injection, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2013‑08. This issue stems from insufficient lubrication due to extended oil change intervals or use of non-spec oil, leading to internal scoring and pressure loss. Volkswagen later updated pump materials and revised maintenance guidance for EA111-family engines.
All production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5892).
The Volkswagen CEBB is a 1,390 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2008–2015). It combines direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑rpm torque and urban fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances entry-level performance with emissions compliance.
| 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 | 90 kW (122 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Bosch HDEV5, up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The Honeywell turbo provides immediate torque from low revs, ideal for city driving, but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00/504 00 spec oil to prevent high-pressure fuel pump wear and timing chain sludge. The cam-driven HPFP is sensitive to oil quality and fuel lubricity; only 95 RON minimum petrol should be used. EGR and PCV systems must remain functional to avoid misfires and carbon buildup. Pre-2012 units may benefit from updated HPFP internals per Volkswagen SIB 2013‑08 to mitigate premature failure.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 (5W-40) specification (Volkswagen SIB 2013‑08). Not interchangeable with 507 00.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CEBB production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5892).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Power output verified on dyno per Volkswagen PT‑2020.
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 03C‑9123, 03C‑9145, 03C‑9160, SIB 2013‑08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5892)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Volkswagen CEBB was used across Volkswagen's Polo, Roomster, and shared within the VAG group for Škoda and SEAT. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised cooling ducts in the Roomster and modified intake manifolds in the Fabia—and from 2012 minor software updates created interchange limits for ECU modules. Partnerships allowed Škoda’s Fabia II and SEAT’s Ibiza to use identical engine hardware. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Volkswagen TIS 03C‑9010). The 4th and 5th characters of the engine code block (e.g., 'CEBB') confirm identity. CEBB uses a black plastic cam cover with '1.4 TSI' embossing. Differentiate from CAXA/CAYA: CEBB has a Honeywell turbo with external wastegate actuator and Bosch MED17.5.5 ECU. Service parts require verification—fuel rails and injectors for CEBB are high-pressure direct-only and not interchangeable with combined port/direct injection variants.
The CEBB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding service intervals or using non-spec oil. Volkswagen internal data cited in SIB 2013‑08 noted pump wear in a subset of pre-2012 engines, while UK DVSA records show increased emissions-related MOT failures after 90,000 km in short-trip usage. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel accelerate turbo bearing wear and timing chain tensioner degradation, making oil specification and service discipline critical.
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 CEBB.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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