Engine Code

VOLKSWAGEN CLNA engine (2015–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volkswagen CLNA is a 1,968 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivered 110 kW (150 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive low‑end pull and efficient highway cruising.

Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Mk2 Tiguan, and Passat B8—including the 2.0 TDI 150 variants—the CLNA was designed for drivers prioritising fuel economy, refined performance, and compliance with stricter emissions regimes. Emissions control was achieved via a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and urea-based selective catalytic reduction (SCR), enabling Euro 6 compliance.

One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP), highlighted in Volkswagen Service Technical Bulletin 2017‑08. This issue is often linked to inadequate lubricity in low-sulfur diesel or extended oil change intervals affecting camshaft lobe wear that drives the pump. From mid‑2018, revised HPFP components and updated camshaft profiles were introduced to mitigate wear.

Volkswegon Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2015–2020 meet Euro 6 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

CLNA Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen CLNA is a 1,968 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2015–2020). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,968 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke81.0 mm × 95.5 mm
Power output110 kW (150 PS)
Torque340 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6
Compression ratio16.2:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell)
Timing systemBelt‑driven DOHC (front‑mounted)
Oil typeVW 507 00 (SAE 5W‑30)
Dry weight149 kg
Practical Implications

The CLNA’s belt-driven DOHC layout reduces complexity versus chain systems but requires strict 120,000 km or 5-year timing belt replacement per VW maintenance schedule. VW 507 00 (5W-30) oil is mandatory to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and exhaust aftertreatment components. Use of non-compliant oil risks HPFP failure and DPF clogging. The CP4.2 pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) with adequate lubricity; fuel additives may be required in markets with marginal diesel quality. SCR system requires AdBlue refills every 10,000–15,000 km to maintain NOx compliance.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Volkswagen STB 2017‑08). Not interchangeable with 504 00 or ACEA C3.

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all CLNA production (2015–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across EU markets with Euro 6 calibration (Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G-907130).

Primary Sources

Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 03G-907123, 03G-907125, STB 2017‑08

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code

CLNA Compatible Models

The Volkswagen CLNA was used across Volkswagen's Mk7/B8 platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Tiguan and modified exhaust routing in the Passat—and from 2018 the facelifted Golf adopted minor ECU and AdBlue tank revisions, creating minor calibration limits. Group partnerships enabled use in Škoda and SEAT models with identical core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2015–2020
Models:
Golf VII
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA 03G-1234567
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2015–2020
Models:
Passat B8
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA 03G-1234567
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Tiguan II
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G-907140
Make:
Škoda
Years:
2015–2020
Models:
Superb III
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
Škoda ETKA #SK-03G-789
Make:
SEAT
Years:
2016–2020
Models:
Ateca
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150
View Source
SEAT ETKA #ST-03G-456
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing belt cover near the crankshaft pulley (Volkswagen TIS 03G-907150). The 7th VIN digit for CLNA-equipped vehicles is typically 'C' or 'D' depending on model line. Visual identification: black plastic cam cover with 'TDI' badge and integrated AdBlue injector upstream of SCR catalyst. Critical differentiation from CJAA/CXDA: CLNA uses CP4.2 high-pressure pump (not CP3) and includes AdBlue/SCR system absent in pre-Euro 6 variants. Service parts require calibration verification—ECU software must match hardware revision per STB 2017‑08.

Identification Details

Evidence:

Volkswagen TIS Doc. 03G-907150

Location:

Stamped on front timing belt cover near crank pulley (Volkswagen TIS 03G-907150).

Visual Cues:

  • Black cam cover with 'TDI' badge
  • AdBlue tank present (typically 17L, under spare wheel or boot floor)
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Volkswagen STB 2017‑08

Fuel System:

CP4.2 high-pressure pump requires VW 507 00 oil and EN 590 diesel; incompatible with older CP3-based TDI engines.

Aftertreatment:

SCR-equipped models require AdBlue; non-SCR variants (e.g., CXDA) cannot be interchanged without full exhaust/ECU replacement.
HPFP Reliability

Issue:

Early CLNA engines (2015–2017) show elevated HPFP failure rates linked to camshaft lobe wear under marginal fuel conditions.

Evidence:

Volkswagen STB 2017‑08

Recommendation:

Use only EN 590 diesel with lubricity additives if required; adhere strictly to 15,000 km oil change intervals with VW 507 00 oil.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLKSWAGEN CLNA

The CLNA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, with elevated incidence in regions with marginal diesel quality or extended oil intervals. Volkswagen internal field data (2018) indicated a measurable uptick in HPFP replacements before 100,000 km under such conditions, while UK DVSA MOT data shows SCR/AdBlue system faults as a growing cause of emissions-related advisories. Use of non-compliant fuel or oil makes adherence to VW 507 00 specification and AdBlue maintenance critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure
Symptoms: Hard starts, loss of power, fuel pressure DTCs (e.g., P0087), metallic debris in fuel filter.
Cause: Insufficient lubricity in ultra-low-sulfur diesel accelerates wear on CP4.2 pump internals and camshaft drive lobes.
Fix: Replace HPFP and inspect camshaft lobe; flush fuel system and verify oil meets VW 507 00 spec per service bulletin.
AdBlue/SCR system faults
Symptoms: Warning light, reduced power, countdown to immobilisation, NOx sensor or dosing valve DTCs.
Cause: Contaminated AdBlue, crystallisation in lines, or failed dosing module; exacerbated by infrequent use or cold climates.
Fix: Diagnose with OEM tool; replace faulty components, flush lines, and refill with ISO 22241-compliant AdBlue.
DPF regeneration issues
Symptoms: Increased fuel consumption, soot smell, limp mode, excessive regeneration cycles.
Cause: Short-trip driving prevents passive regeneration; oil ash accumulation from non-VW 507 00 oil clogs filter substrate.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration if possible; verify oil spec and driving pattern; replace DPF if ash load exceeds threshold.
Timing belt tensioner wear
Symptoms: Whining or chirping from front cover, belt tracking issues, potential jump or breakage.
Cause: Age-related degradation of hydraulic tensioner; exacerbated by oil contamination or incorrect installation.
Fix: Replace full timing belt kit (belt, tensioner, rollers) at 120,000 km or 5 years per VW maintenance schedule.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2015–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLKSWAGEN CLNA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CLNA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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