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‑performance driving with everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise direct injection 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) wear, particularly in early‑production units, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2011‑07. This issue stems from insufficient lubrication in the cam follower that drives the HPFP. From mid‑2012, revised cam follower and pump materials were introduced to mitigate premature failure.
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 CJSA delivers strong, linear power ideal for spirited driving but demands high‑quality fuel (RON 98 preferred) and strict adherence to oil change intervals (every 15,000 km or annually) to protect the turbo and HPFP. VW 502 00/505 00 oil is critical due to its high thermal stability and compatibility with the timing chain tensioner. Early HPFP failures are linked to low‑lubricity fuel and extended service intervals; post‑2012 engines include an upgraded cam follower per SIB 2011‑07. Carbon buildup on intake valves is minimal due to direct injection, but occasional decarbonisation of the combustion chamber may be required to maintain compression balance.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 505 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner’s Manual CJSA). Not compatible with Longlife‑04 or ACEA C3 oils.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CJSA models (2008–2015) (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 TIS Doc. 06K‑2035).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 06K‑2021, 06K‑2030, SIB 2011‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (Volkswagen TIS 06K‑1010). The 4th–6th characters of the engine code on the VIN plate (e.g., “CJS”) confirm family; full code “CJSA” appears on the build sticker in the service book or spare wheel well. Visual cue: black plastic intake manifold with “TSI” logo and integrated charge air cooler. Critical differentiation from CAEB/CDL: CJSA uses a single K04 turbo with specific wastegate actuator (part #06H 145 701 B). HPFP cam follower must match production date—pre-06/2012 units require updated follower per SIB 2011‑07.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CJSA.
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