The Volkswagen CZEA is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2020. It features an aluminium block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and direct fuel injection (TSI). In standard form it delivered 110 kW (150 PS) at 5,000 rpm and 250 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 3,500 rpm, providing strong low-end response and refined performance for compact and mid-size VW models.
Fitted to models such as the Golf Mk7, Passat B8, and Tiguan Mk2, the CZEA was engineered for responsive daily driving with efficient motorway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and electronic engine management meeting Euro 6 standards from launch.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of fuel washing in direct-injection systems, which can lead to rough idle and reduced performance. This issue, referenced in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 01‑14‑06, is common to many TSI engines of this generation. From 2016, revised intake port designs and updated ECU calibrations were introduced to mitigate deposit accumulation.
Production years 2012–2020 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8732).
The Volkswagen CZEA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2012–2020). It combines direct fuel injection (TSI) with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards from launch, it balances performance with low CO₂ output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, min. 95 RON) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.5 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin‑scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain (rear‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑30 or 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides strong torque from 1,500 rpm, ideal for responsive driving, but the direct-injection system lacks fuel washing of intake valves, leading to carbon buildup over time. VW 502 00/504 00 oil is essential for turbo and chain longevity. Use only 95 RON minimum unleaded fuel meeting EN 228 standards. Revised intake port designs from 2016 reduce—but do not eliminate—carbon accumulation. Chain-driven timing eliminates belt replacement but requires correct oil quality to prevent tensioner wear. EGR and PCV systems should be inspected periodically to maintain emissions compliance and prevent misfires.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 or 504 00 specification (Volkswagen TIS 01‑13‑05). ACEA C3 oils meeting this spec are acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2012–2020 CZEA engines (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8732). No Euro 5 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output verified on VW dynamometer test bench per PT‑2019.
Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 01‑13‑05, 01‑13‑07, 01‑14‑06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8732)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Volkswagen CZEA was used across Volkswagen's Golf Mk7/Passat B8/Tiguan Mk2 platforms with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Passat B8 and modified exhaust manifolds in the Golf GTI Performance—and from 2016 the intake port geometry was updated, creating minor service calibration distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Volkswagen TIS 01‑13‑10). The 4th and 5th digits of the VIN (e.g., 'AU') indicate model line, while the engine code appears on the build sticker in the service book or spare wheel well. Pre-2016 CZEA engines have intake ports with straight runners; post-2016 units feature revised swirl-inducing ports. Critical differentiation from CYZB: CZEA produces 150 PS (vs. 125 PS) and uses a chain-driven timing system (CYZB uses belt). Oil filler cap on CZEA is black with 'TSI' embossing.
The CZEA's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup on intake valves due to its direct-injection design, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or short-trip urban use. Volkswagen internal quality data from 2018 indicated a notable share of pre-2016 engines required intake cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show timing chain tensioner wear as a secondary concern in neglected vehicles. Infrequent oil changes and use of non-spec oil accelerate chain and turbo degradation, making correct lubrication critical.
Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN CZEA.
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