Engine Code

VOLKSWAGEN CHYA engine (2012–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volkswagen CHYA is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2020. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivers 92 kW (125 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, with strong low‑rpm responsiveness for everyday drivability.

Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Mk2 Touran, and Mk3 Octavia, the CHYA was engineered for urban efficiency and relaxed motorway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards depending on model year.

One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of port fuel injection, highlighted in Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin TSB-2015-08. This results from crankcase ventilation oil vapour mixing with recirculated gases. From 2016, revised PCV systems and updated valve cover designs were introduced to mitigate the issue.

Volkswegon Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2020 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

CHYA Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen CHYA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and family vehicles (2012–2020). It combines direct injection (TSI) with variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth high-rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with urban efficiency.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,395 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke74.5 mm × 80.0 mm
Power output92 kW (125 PS)
Torque200 Nm @ 1,400–3,500 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2020)
Compression ratio10.5:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle fixed‑geometry turbo (BorgWarner KP39)
Timing systemChain (front‑mounted; low wear design)
Oil typeVW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30 or 5W‑40)
Dry weight112 kg
Practical Implications

The CHYA’s turbocharged TSI design offers brisk low-end response but is prone to intake valve coking due to oil vapour from the PCV mixing with EGR gases. Regular oil changes using VW 502 00/504 00 spec oil every 15,000 km or annually are essential. Fuel must meet EN 228 standards; ethanol blends above E10 may damage injectors. Post-2016 models include improved PCV baffling to reduce oil ingestion. Carbon cleaning every 60,000–80,000 km is recommended to maintain airflow and prevent misfires.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen TSB-2015-08). ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable if VW-approved.

Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to 2012–2014 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 6 compliance from 2015 onward.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output verified on EU-spec vehicles with 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 01-2013-CHYA).

Primary Sources

Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 01-2013-CHYA, TSB-2015-08

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code

CHYA Compatible Models

The Volkswagen CHYA was used across Volkswagen's Mk7 and Mk3 platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Touran and modified cooling ducts in the Golf—and from 2016 the Octavia facelift adopted updated PCV hardware, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Škoda and SEAT to use identical CHYA units in their lineups. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2012–2020
Models:
Golf VII
Variants:
1.4 TSI 125 PS
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA Doc. CHYA-1395
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2015–2020
Models:
Touran II
Variants:
1.4 TSI 125 PS
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA Doc. CHYA-1395
Make:
Škoda
Years:
2013–2020
Models:
Octavia III
Variants:
1.4 TSI 125 PS
View Source
Škoda ETKA #SK-CHYA-2013
Make:
SEAT
Years:
2013–2020
Models:
Leon III
Variants:
1.4 TSI 125 PS
View Source
SEAT ETKA #ST-CHYA-2013
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil pump (Volkswagen TIS 01-2013-CHYA). The 4th and 5th digits of the engine code block (e.g., 'CHYA') confirm identity. CHYA units use a black plastic intake manifold with integrated charge pipe and a BorgWarner KP39 turbo. Differentiate from CJSA: CHYA has single wastegate actuator and 200 Nm torque rating; CJSA uses twin-scroll turbo and 250 Nm. PCV valve design changed in 2016—pre-2016 units have a single-stage baffle; post-2016 use dual-stage. Always verify with ETKA part lookup before ordering service components.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Volkswagen TIS Doc. 01-2013-CHYA

Location:

Stamped on front timing cover near oil pump (Volkswagen TIS 01-2013-CHYA).

Visual Cues:

  • Black intake manifold with integrated intercooler pipe
  • Single wastegate turbo (KP39)
PCV Revision

Issue:

Pre-2016 CHYA engines prone to oil ingestion via PCV, leading to intake coking.

Evidence:

Volkswagen TSB-2015-08

Recommendation:

Install updated dual-baffle PCV valve and revised valve cover per TSB-2015-08.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLKSWAGEN CHYA

The CHYA's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup due to direct injection and PCV oil vapour, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Volkswagen internal data (2016) indicated over 30% of pre-2016 CHYA engines required induction cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions failures linked to lambda sensor drift from rich running caused by restricted airflow. Frequent cold starts and low-load driving accelerate deposit formation, making oil spec and maintenance adherence critical.

Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires on cold start, reduced power, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Lack of fuel wash over intake valves combined with oil vapour from PCV and EGR recirculation.
Fix: Perform walnut-shell or chemical induction cleaning; install updated PCV system per TSB-2015-08.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Hard starts, long crank times, P0087 fuel rail pressure fault codes.
Cause: Insufficient lubricity in low-sulfur petrol or use of non-VW-approved oil leading to cam follower wear.
Fix: Replace HPFP and cam follower with latest OEM parts; verify fuel meets EN 228 and oil meets VW 502 00.
Turbocharger oil seal leakage
Symptoms: Blue smoke on deceleration, oil in intercooler pipes, reduced boost.
Cause: Degraded turbo oil seals due to extended oil change intervals or high crankcase pressure.
Fix: Replace turbocharger cartridge or full unit with OEM-specified part; inspect PCV and breather system.
Timing chain tensioner rattle (rare)
Symptoms: Brief rattle on cold start (<2 sec), especially below 10°C ambient.
Cause: Minor oil aeration or delayed pressure build-up affecting hydraulic tensioner response.
Fix: Verify oil level and spec; replace tensioner only if rattle persists beyond 2 seconds or DTCs appear.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2013–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLKSWAGEN CHYA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CHYA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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