The Volkswagen CFFB 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 compact design and high specific output made it a cornerstone of VW’s performance-oriented TSI lineup.
Fitted to models including the Mk5 and Mk6 Golf R, Scirocco R, and Audi S3 (8P), the CFFB was engineered for responsive performance and daily usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through stratified lean-burn operation and a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2011‑07. The issue stems from insufficient lubrication under high-load, low-RPM conditions, leading to cam follower wear. Volkswagen revised the cam follower design in 2012 and updated HPFP service procedures to mitigate premature wear.
All production years 2008–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CFFB is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks and coupes (2008–2015). It combines direct injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range response and high specific output. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances track-ready performance with daily drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
| 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 layout | |
| Turbocharger | Single K04 turbocharger (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The CFFB’s high specific output demands attentive maintenance: oil changes every 10,000 km using VW 502 00/504 00 oil are essential to protect turbo and timing components. The high-pressure fuel pump relies on fuel-lubricated cam followers—extended low-RPM, high-load operation (e.g., towing) accelerates wear. Use of RON 98 fuel is recommended to prevent knock under boost. Post-2012 engines feature revised cam followers per VW STB 2011‑07. Carbon buildup on intake valves is minimal due to direct injection but may occur over 150,000 km; walnut blasting may be required.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 (5W‑40) specification (Volkswagen Owner’s Manual). Not interchangeable with 507 00 diesel oils.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CFFB production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Full 211 PS output requires RON 98 fuel (Volkswagen Workshop Manual 1723).
Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletins: STB 2011‑07, Workshop Manual 1723
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
Volkswagen ETKA Documentation (06K engine family)
The Volkswagen CFFB was used across Volkswagen's Mk5/Mk6 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Audi for longitudinal applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Golf R and revised cooling in the Scirocco R—and from 2012 the cam follower was updated, creating minor service part distinctions. Partnerships enabled Audi's S3 (8P) to use an identical long block. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filler neck (Volkswagen Workshop Manual 1723). The 4th–6th VIN digits indicate engine family ('CFF' for CFFB). Visual identification: black plastic cam cover with 'TSI' logo; K04 turbo with integrated exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from CAEB/CAXC: CFFB uses a higher-flow intercooler and revised ECU map. Cam followers for engines before 06/2012 are not interchangeable with post-STB 2011‑07 units due to material and geometry changes.
The CFFB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump and cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in sustained low-RPM, high-load driving. VW internal data from 2012 indicated a notable share of pre-2012 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust three-way catalyst design. Extended idling and aggressive tuning without supporting mods increase cam lobe stress, making oil quality and driving style 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 CFFB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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