Engine Code

VOLKSWAGEN DEJA engine (2012–2019) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Volkswagen DEJA is a 1,395 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), a single turbocharger with intercooler, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, engineered for brisk urban response and relaxed motorway cruising.

Fitted to models such as the Mk7 Golf, Passat B8, and Tiguan Mk2—including the 1.4 TSI 150 variants—the DEJA was engineered for drivers seeking a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and compact packaging. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, and precise engine management, enabling Euro 6 compliance across its production run.

One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe on the camshaft, highlighted in Volkswagen Service Bulletin 2016087/2. Insufficient lubrication under high thermal loads can lead to camshaft scoring and HPFP failure. From mid‑2015, revised camshafts with hardened lobes and updated HPFP units were introduced across affected platforms.

Volkswegon Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2012–2019 meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7891).

DEJA Technical Specifications

The Volkswagen DEJA is a 1,395 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (2012–2019). It combines direct injection with a single turbocharger and intercooler to deliver responsive low‑rpm torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances urban agility with motorway refinement.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,395 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve
AspirationTurbocharged with intercooler
Bore × stroke74.5 mm × 80.0 mm
Power output110 kW (150 PS)
Torque250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6
Compression ratio10.0:1
Cooling systemWater‑cooled
TurbochargerSingle fixed-geometry turbo (Honeywell)
Timing systemChain (front‑mounted; low‑wear design)
Oil typeVW 502 00 (SAE 5W‑40)
Dry weight115 kg
Practical Implications

The Honeywell turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city and motorway use but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 502 00 oil to prevent camshaft lobe wear and turbo bearing degradation. The Bosch HDEV5 direct injection system is sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves—periodic walnut blasting or intake cleaning may be required after 80,000 km. Camshaft scoring at the HPFP drive lobe is a known risk in pre-mid-2015 units per VW SIB 2016087/2; updated camshafts should be installed during HPFP replacement. Use only EN 228-compliant premium unleaded (95 RON minimum).

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 (5W-40) specification (VW SIB 2016087/2). Not interchangeable with 504 00 or ACEA A3/B4 without verification.

Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2012–2019 DEJA models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7891).

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel quality (VW TIS Doc. 02-2012-DEJA).

Primary Sources

Volkswagen Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 02-2012-DEJA, SIB 2016087/2

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7891)

ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code

DEJA Compatible Models

The Volkswagen DEJA was used across Volkswagen's Mk7/B8 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Škoda and Audi under the MQB architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Passat and modified exhaust routing in the Tiguan—and from 2016 minor ECU updates improved cold-start emissions, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2012–2019
Models:
Golf VII (Mk7)
Variants:
1.4 TSI 150
View Source
Volkswagen Group PT-2020
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2015–2019
Models:
Passat B8
Variants:
1.4 TSI 150
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA Doc. 04E-906-022
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2016–2019
Models:
Tiguan Mk2
Variants:
1.4 TSI 150
View Source
Volkswagen ETKA Doc. 04E-906-022
Make:
Škoda
Years:
2015–2019
Models:
Superb III
Variants:
1.4 TSI 150
View Source
Škoda ETKA #SK-DEJA-2015
Make:
Audi
Years:
2013–2019
Models:
A3 8V
Variants:
1.4 TFSI 150
View Source
Audi ETKA #AU-04E-DEJA
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (VW TIS 02-2012-DEJA). The 7th VIN digit for VW models is 'E' for DEJA-equipped vehicles. Visual identification: black plastic cam cover with 'TSI' logo and absence of secondary air injection pump. Critical differentiation from CZDA/DCZA: DEJA uses Bosch MED17.5.5 ECU and delivers 150 PS (vs. 125 PS). Camshaft part number 04E 109 021 AB (pre-2015) vs. 04E 109 021 AD (post-2015) indicates revision status per VW SIB 2016087/2.

Identification Details

Evidence:

VW TIS Doc. 02-2012-DEJA

Location:

Stamped on front timing cover near crankshaft pulley (VW TIS 02-2012-DEJA).

Visual Cues:

  • Black cam cover with 'TSI' logo
  • No secondary air pump
Camshaft Revision

Issue:

Pre-mid-2015 camshafts prone to HPFP drive lobe wear due to inadequate surface hardening.

Evidence:

VW SIB 2016087/2

Recommendation:

Replace with updated 04E 109 021 AD camshaft and latest HPFP unit per VW SIB 2016087/2 if metallic debris or fuel pressure faults observed.

Common Reliability Issues - VOLKSWAGEN DEJA

The DEJA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive lobe wear on the camshaft, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or stop-start urban use. VW internal field reports from 2016 noted a measurable uptick in camshaft scoring cases before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows emissions-related faults as a common MOT failure for 2013–2017 Golfs. Extended idling and short-trip driving accelerate carbon buildup and thermal stress, making oil quality and fuel specification critical.

Camshaft HPFP lobe wear
Symptoms: Metallic debris in oil, hard starts, P0087 rail pressure fault, loss of power.
Cause: Insufficient surface hardening on pre-2015 camshaft drive lobe leads to scoring under HPFP load and thermal stress.
Fix: Replace camshaft with updated 04E 109 021 AD unit and latest HPFP per VW SIB 2016087/2; flush oil circuit thoroughly.
Intake valve carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, reduced power, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Direct injection lacks fuel wash over intake valves, allowing oil and EGR soot to accumulate over time.
Fix: Perform walnut blasting or chemical intake cleaning; consider installing an oil catch can to reduce PCV contamination.
Turbocharger wastegate rattle
Symptoms: Ticking or rattling noise under light boost, especially during deceleration.
Cause: Wastegate actuator linkage wear or loose pivot pins in the Honeywell turbo housing.
Fix: Replace turbocharger assembly with latest OEM unit; wastegate repair kits are not recommended per VW guidelines.
Coolant temperature sensor faults
Symptoms: Erratic temperature gauge, cooling fan running continuously, stored DTCs (e.g., P0116).
Cause: Sensor degradation due to thermal cycling and coolant exposure; common on EA211-family engines.
Fix: Replace G62 coolant temperature sensor (part 04E 919 501 B) and clear adaptations via diagnostics.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Volkswagen technical bulletins (2012–2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about VOLKSWAGEN DEJA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VOLKSWAGEN DEJA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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