The Volkswagen CJ is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2015. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard form it delivered 147 kW (200 PS) and 280 Nm of torque, enabling brisk performance with improved fuel economy over prior naturally aspirated units.
Fitted to models such as the Golf Mk5 R32 replacement (Golf GTI Mk6), Passat B6/B7, and Tiguan, the CJ was engineered for responsive performance and everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise direct injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a close-coupled catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2011‑07. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication under high-load, high-temperature conditions, particularly when low-sulfur fuel quality is inconsistent. Revised HPFP units were introduced from mid‑2012 onward.
All production years 2007–2015 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CJ is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2007–2015). It combines gasoline direct injection with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive performance and strong mid‑range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances sporty driving dynamics with reasonable fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, min. 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,700–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 110 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual-circuit layout | |
| Turbocharger | Single K04 turbo (Garrett/Volkswagen) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30 or 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 143 kg |
The TSI architecture delivers strong mid-range torque and responsive throttle but demands strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 15,000 km or annually) using VW 502 00/504 00 oil to protect the turbo and timing chain. The high-pressure fuel pump requires consistent use of high-quality 95+ RON unleaded fuel to prevent premature wear. Carbon buildup on intake valves (due to lack of fuel washing in direct-injection systems) may require walnut blasting after 80,000–100,000 km. Early CJ units (pre-2012) should be inspected for HPFP wear per VW STB 2011‑07.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner’s Manual CJ). ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable only if VW-approved.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CJ production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output assumes 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen Group PT‑2010).
Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletins: STB 2011‑07, TSI Engine Handbook 2008
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Volkswagen CJ was used across Volkswagen's A5/B6/5N platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and SEAT under the VAG group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Passat B7 and revised cooling in the Tiguan—and from 2012 the updated Golf Mk6 facelift retained the CJ while later models transitioned to EA888 Gen 3. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (Volkswagen ETKA 06K‑901). The 4th and 5th characters of the engine code on the VIN plate (e.g., “CJ”) confirm identity. Visual cues: black plastic cam cover with “TSI” logo, K04 turbo with integrated exhaust manifold. Differentiate from CA/CD engines by power output (200 PS vs. 160/180 PS) and HPFP part number (06F 127 025 E for CJ). Pre-2012 HPFP units are prone to failure; verify replacement status via service history or STB 2011‑07 inspection.
The CJ's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure on pre-2012 builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate use. Volkswagen internal field data from 2012 indicated a notable rate of HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show secondary issues with carbon buildup on intake valves in direct-injection TSI engines. Extended oil intervals and inconsistent fuel quality accelerate wear, making oil/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 CJ.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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