The Volkswagen CJSA 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. The integrated exhaust manifold within the cylinder head enables rapid warm‑up and consistent turbo response.
Fitted to models such as the Mk5 and Mk6 Golf R, Scirocco R, and Audi S3 (8P), the CJSA was engineered for high‑…
All CJSA production years (2008–2015) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Volkswagen CJSA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high‑performance hatchbacks and coupes (2008–2015). It combines gasoline direct injection with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive power and strong mid‑range torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances track‑capable output 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 @ 1,800–5,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 150 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 (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 149 kg |
The Volkswagen CJSA was used across Volkswagen's Mk5/Mk6 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Audi under the VW Group modular strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Golf R and revised cooling ducts in the Scirocco R-and from 2013 the Audi S3 facelift retained the CJSA until the EA888 Gen 3 transition, creating clear generational boundaries. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CJSA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced vehicles. Volkswagen internal data (2012) indicated a notable rate of HPFP replacements before 100,000 km in pre-2012 units, while UK DVSA MOT records show turbo actuator faults as a secondary concern in performance models. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel increase HPFP and turbo stress, making fuel specification 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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CJSA is robust when maintained properly, but early units (2008–2012) are prone to HPFP failure. Post-2012 revisions improved durability. Using RON 98 fuel, VW 502 00 oil, and adhering to 15,000 km service intervals significantly enhances longevity. Many examples exceed 200,000 km with no major issues.
Top issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure (pre-2012), turbo wastegate actuator faults, carbon buildup in combustion chambers, and minor oil leaks from the valve cover or oil cooler. These are documented in Volkswagen service bulletins and widely observed in high-mileage performance models.
The CJSA powered the Golf R (Mk5, 2009–2013), Scirocco R (2009–2017), and Audi S3 (8P, 2008–2012). It was exclusive to high-performance TSI applications within the VW Group and was never used in standard Golf or Passat models.
Yes. The CJSA responds well to ECU remapping, typically gaining +30–50 kW on stage 1 with stock hardware. The K04 turbo and forged internals support up to ~280 kW with upgraded intercooler, exhaust, and fueling. Always use RON 98 fuel and monitor HPFP health after tuning.
In a Golf R (Mk5), expect ~9.5 L/100km (city) and ~6.2 L/100km (highway), or about 30 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically yields 28–33 mpg (UK). Economy suffers noticeably with aggressive driving due to the engine’s performance orientation.
Yes. The CJSA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the chain is designed as maintenance-free and generally reliable if oil quality and change intervals are respected.
Volkswagen specifies SAE 5W‑40 oil meeting VW 502 00 (petrol) or 505 00 (diesel-compatible) standards. Always use a high-quality synthetic oil and change every 15,000 km or annually to protect the turbo, HPFP, and timing system.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VOLKSWAGEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
VOLKSWAGEN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVOLKSWAGEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed”.
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.