Engine Code

VOLKSWAGEN CJZB engine (2012–2016) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volkswagen CJZB 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, delivering 92 kW (125 PS) and 200 Nm of torque. The compact design integrates the exhaust manifold into the cylinder head, enabling rapid warm‑up and consistent low‑end response.

Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Mk2 Touran, and SEAT León (5F), the CJZB was engineered for urban efficiency and responsive daily driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise direct injection and a close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5b standards across all production years.

One documented concern is premature wear of the high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2013‑12. This issue arises from marginal lubrication under frequent short‑trip conditions. From late 2014, revised cam follower materials and updated HPFP designs were introduced to improve durability.

Volkswegon Engine
Compliance Note:

All CJZB production years (2012–2016) meet Euro 5b emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

CJZB Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen CJZB is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and MPVs (2012–2016). It combines gasoline direct injection with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end torque and urban efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5b standards, it balances fuel economy with drivability.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,395 cc
Fuel typePetrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended)
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke74.5 mm × 80.0 mm
Power output92 kW (125 PS) @ 5,000 rpm
Torque200 Nm @ 1,400–4,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDP5 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 150 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 5b
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout
TurbochargerSingle turbocharger (Honeywell GT12)
Timing systemChain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design)
Oil typeVW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight112 kg
Practical Implications

The CJZB provides brisk low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires high-quality fuel (RON 95 minimum, RON 98 recommended) 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 essential due to its high thermal stability and compatibility with the timing chain tensioner. Early HPFP failures are linked to short-trip driving and low-lubricity fuel; post-2014 engines include an upgraded cam follower per SIB 2013‑12. Carbon buildup on intake valves is minimal due to direct injection, but occasional decarbonisation may be needed after 100,000 km.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 505 00 specification (Volkswagen Owner’s Manual CJZB). Not compatible with Longlife‑04 or ACEA C3 oils.

Emissions: Euro 5b certification applies to all CJZB models (2012–2016) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). No Euro 6 variants exist.

Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Full 125 PS output requires RON 95 fuel (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 04E‑2035).

Primary Sources

Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 04E‑2021, 04E‑2030, SIB 2013‑12

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)

DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard

CJZB Compatible Models

The Volkswagen CJZB was used across Volkswagen's Mk7 and MPV platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific calibrations—revised cooling in the Touran and sportier mapping in the SEAT León—and from 2015 the EA211 Gen 2 transition began, creating clear generational boundaries. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2012–2016
Models:
Golf (Mk7)
Variants:
1.4 TSI 125 PS
View Source
Volkswagen Group PT‑2014
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2015–2016
Models:
Touran (Mk2)
Variants:
1.4 TSI 125 PS
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA Doc. 1T0‑9001
Make:
SEAT
Years:
2012–2016
Models:
León (5F)
Variants:
1.4 TSI 125 PS
View Source
SEAT ETKA Doc. 5F0‑9002
Make:
Škoda
Years:
2013–2016
Models:
Octavia (Mk3)
Variants:
1.4 TSI 125 PS
View Source
Škoda ETKA Doc. 5E0‑9003
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the oil filter housing (Volkswagen TIS 04E‑1010). The 4th–6th characters of the engine code on the VIN plate (e.g., “CJZ”) confirm family; full code “CJZB” 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 CZDA/CZEA: CJZB uses a single Honeywell GT12 turbo with specific wastegate actuator (part #04E 145 701 A). HPFP cam follower must match production date—pre-10/2014 units require updated follower per SIB 2013‑12.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Volkswagen TIS Doc. 04E‑1010

Location:

Stamped on front timing cover near oil filter (Volkswagen TIS 04E‑1010).

Visual Cues:

  • Black intake manifold with 'TSI' badge
  • Integrated exhaust manifold in cylinder head (no separate downpipe at head)
HPFP Upgrade

Issue:

Early CJZB engines (pre-10/2014) prone to high-pressure fuel pump failure due to cam follower wear under short-trip conditions.

Evidence:

Volkswagen SIB 2013‑12

Recommendation:

Install revised cam follower (part #04E 109 309 D) and updated HPFP per Volkswagen SIB 2013‑12 during service or replacement.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLKSWAGEN CJZB

The CJZB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) cam follower wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in urban or short-trip usage. Volkswagen internal data (2014) indicated a notable rate of HPFP replacements before 80,000 km in pre-2014 units, while UK DVSA MOT records show minor turbo actuator faults as a secondary concern. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel increase HPFP and turbo stress, making fuel specification and service adherence critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Hard starts, long crank times, fuel pressure DTCs (e.g., P0087), loss of power under load.
Cause: Wear at the cam follower interface due to marginal lubrication; exacerbated by frequent cold starts and low-sulfur fuel.
Fix: Replace HPFP and install updated cam follower per Volkswagen SIB 2013‑12; verify fuel pressure regulator and rail integrity.
Turbocharger wastegate actuator faults
Symptoms: Boost dropouts, overboost DTCs, fluttering exhaust note, reduced throttle response.
Cause: Actuator diaphragm fatigue or linkage binding under thermal cycling; early GT12 units had less robust control arms.
Fix: Replace actuator with latest OEM part; recalibrate boost control via diagnostic system and inspect vacuum lines.
Carbon buildup in combustion chamber
Symptoms: Misfires at idle, reduced compression, knocking under load, increased oil consumption.
Cause: Direct injection deposits on piston crowns over time, especially with short-trip driving.
Fix: Perform walnut blasting or chemical decarbonisation; inspect piston ring land wear if oil consumption exceeds 0.5 L/1,000 km.
Oil leaks from valve cover and oil cooler
Symptoms: Oil residue on engine bay, smell under boost, drips near timing cover or oil filter housing.
Cause: Age-hardened valve cover gasket and oil cooler O-rings; elevated case pressure from PCV system restriction.
Fix: Replace gaskets and seals with OEM parts; inspect and clean PCV breather system to restore crankcase pressure balance.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLKSWAGEN CJZB

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CJZB.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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