Audi CFKA Engine (2012–2019) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Audi CFKA is a 1,395 cc, inline — four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA211 engine family, designed for compact and subcompact applications. Featuring direct fuel injection (TSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and a turbocharger with intercooler, it delivers 81 kW (110 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, offering responsive performance in lightweight Audi models.

Fitted to models such as the Audi A1 (8X) and A3 (8V…

Audi CFKA Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models comply with Euro 6b depending on market .

Audi CFKA Technical Specifications

The Audi CFKA is a 1,395 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact models (2012–2019). It combines TSI direct injection with a compact turbocharger and integrated exhaust manifold to deliver strong low-end torque and quick throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it balances urban drivability with emissions efficiency.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement
1,395 cc
Fuel type
Petrol
Configuration
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Bore × stroke
74.5 mm × 79.5 mm
Power output
81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,000–6,000 rpm
Torque
200 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm
Fuel system
Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar)
Emissions standard
Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6b (2015–2019)
Compression ratio
10.0:1
Cooling system
Water-cooled
Turbocharger
Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner), air-cooled intercooler
Timing system
Chain-driven (front-mounted, single-stage)
Oil type
Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification
Dry weight
97 kg

Audi CFKA Compatible Models

The Audi CFKA was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive configurations. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated exhaust manifold in the A1 and revised intake routing in the A3-and from 2015 the facelifted A3 8V.5 adopted Euro 6-compliant tuning with updated emissions calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Audi
Years:
2012–2018
Models:
A1 (8X)
Variants:
1.4 TFSI 110 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2021
Make:
Audi
Years:
2013–2019
Models:
A3 (8V)
Variants:
1.4 TFSI 110 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A34615

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Common Reliability Issues - AUDI CFKA Compatible Models

Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.

Timing chain tensioner wear or failure
Symptoms: Rattle at cold start, timing chain noise under load, check engine light, camshaft correlation faults.
Cause: Early-design tensioner susceptible to oil starvation during cold starts, leading to accelerated wear and chain slack.
Fix: Replace with updated OEM tensioner per Audi SIB 2016-10-01; inspect chain and guides for damage. Verify oil flow and pump condition.
Intake valve coking (direct injection)
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, reduced power, poor fuel economy, hesitation on acceleration.
Cause: Lack of fuel washing over intake valves in direct-injected engines leads to carbon buildup, restricting airflow.
Fix: Perform walnut blasting or chemical cleaning of intake valves; update ECU software to optimize fuel stratification.
Turbocharger boost leaks or wastegate failure
Symptoms: Loss of power, boost pressure fluctuations, over-boost DTCs, black smoke under acceleration.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical failure in the turbo wastegate actuator or boost control solenoid.
Fix: Inspect and clean wastegate linkage; replace actuator or turbo assembly if binding persists. Recalibrate via diagnostics.
Coolant leaks from cylinder head or thermostat housing
Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke, sweet smell, low coolant warning.
Cause: Age-related degradation of head gasket seals or thermostat housing gasket; thermal cycling accelerates failure.
Fix: Replace thermostat housing gasket and inspect head sealing surfaces. Use OEM parts and follow torque specifications.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

AUDI CFKA FAQ Common Questions Answered

The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works

The CFKA is generally reliable when maintained properly, though early units (2012-2014) are prone to timing chain tensioner wear. Post-2015 revisions with updated tensioners and oil calibration improve durability. Regular oil changes with VW 502 00/505 00 oil and intake valve cleaning significantly extend service life. Well-maintained engines can exceed 200,000 km.

The most frequent issues are timing chain tensioner wear, intake valve coking due to direct injection, turbo wastegate sticking, and coolant leaks from the thermostat housing. These are documented in Audi service bulletins. Using correct oil and regular servicing reduces occurrence.

The CFKA engine was used in the Audi A1 (8X, 2012–2018) and A3 (8V, 2013–2019) as the 1.4 TFSI 110 PS variant. It replaced earlier 1.4 TFSI units and was phased out in favour of the 1.5 TSI. Euro 5 models (pre-2015) have different emissions tuning than Euro 6 versions (2015+).

Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the CFKA platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.

Excellent for its class. In an A3 1.4 TFSI (110 PS), combined consumption is ~5.1 L/100km (~55 mpg UK). Highway driving achieves ~4.5 L/100km (~62 mpg UK), while city use ranges 6.0–7.0 L/100km (~40–47 mpg UK). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but 45–55 mpg UK is typical for mixed use.

Yes. The CFKA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic internal damage. The chain is durable but should be inspected if rattling occurs, especially on cold start. Any timing-related noise warrants immediate inspection.

Audi specifies VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) synthetic oil. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 1 year. This oil is critical for turbo, timing chain, and fuel system longevity. Using non-compliant oil increases wear and voids emissions-related warranty coverage.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

Platform Overview

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Primary Sources

EUR-Lex

EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C

UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.

DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT

Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.

Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

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