The Volkswagen CJZA is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2016. 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 responsive low‑end delivery and efficient urban performance.
Fitted to models such as the Polo Mk5, Golf Mk7, and Škoda Fabia III, the CJZA was engineered for compact hatchback efficiency without sacrificing drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise direct injection, three‑way catalytic converter, and secondary air injection, meeting Euro 5b and Euro 6 standards depending on model year and market.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower, which can lead to pump failure and hard starting. This issue, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2013‑12, is linked to marginal lubrication under frequent short trips or extended oil change intervals. From mid‑2014, revised cam follower materials were introduced to improve durability.

Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5b standards; 2015–2016 models comply with Euro 6 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
The Volkswagen CJZA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and small SUVs (2012–2016). It combines direct fuel injection (TSI) with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and refined urban drivability. Designed to meet Euro 5b and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances efficiency with everyday performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5b (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2016) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (Honeywell GT12 or BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 112 kg |
The TSI direct-injection system enables brisk low-end response but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502/505‑approved 5W‑40 oil to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves and HPFP cam follower wear. Fuel must meet EN 228 (95 RON minimum) to ensure injector and pump longevity. The timing chain is maintenance-free but relies on consistent oil quality; any rattling noise should be investigated immediately. Revised cam follower units from mid-2014 onward (part #04E 127 025 C) offer improved durability per VW STB 2013‑12.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 specification (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 04E‑1012). Not interchangeable with Longlife‑04 diesel oils.
Emissions: Euro 5b certification applies to 2012–2014 models; Euro 6 applies to 2015–2016 builds (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output assumes 95 RON fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 04E‑1030).
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 04E‑1012, 04E‑1025, 04E‑1030
Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin (STB) 2013‑12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8912)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Volkswagen CJZA was used across Volkswagen's Mk5/Mk7 compact platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and SEAT under the VW Group modular strategy. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised cooling in the Polo and updated ECU maps in the Golf—and from 2015 the Fabia III retained the CJZA while other models transitioned to EA211 Gen 2. 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 04E‑1005). The 4th–6th digits of the engine code on the VIN plate (e.g., 'CJZ') confirm family; full code 'CJZA' appears on the build sticker in the service book or spare wheel well. Visual cue: black plastic intake manifold with red 'TSI' badge. Differentiate from CZDA: CJZA uses a lower-output turbo and different HPFP cam profile. HPFP part numbers also differ—CJZA uses 04E 127 025 series. Always verify with ETKA part lookup before ordering components.
The CJZA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips or with extended service intervals. Volkswagen internal data from 2014 indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP-related warranty claims before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show no systemic emissions failures. Urban driving and infrequent oil changes accelerate cam follower degradation, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CJZA.
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