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2.0 TFSI (CAEB/CDNC, EA888)

2008–2015 · petrol · 1984cc · 211hp

Engine codes: CAEB, CDNC

History-Dependent

Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Audi A4 B8 2.0 TFSI (CAEB/CDNC, EA888). Check this before you buy used.

Strong 2.0 turbo, but the defining issue is excessive oil consumption on 2009–2012 units (worn/faulty piston rings burning oil). Audi revised it for the 2013+ facelift, where the engine is much improved. Also watch the timing-chain tensioner and water pump. A 2013+ or low-oil-use car is good; an early oil-burner is a costly rebuild.

Same engine, other cars

This is the same physical engine (CAEB) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:

Known Issues

Excessive oil consumption (2009–2012)critical

Worn piston rings let oil into the combustion chamber; heavy oil burning on early B8 2.0 TFSI. Largely resolved 2013+.

Fix / Workaround: Check consumption before buying; prefer 2013+; revised pistons/rings fix it (major job).

Repair cost: €1500–€3500

Typically appears after: 80,000 km

Timing chain tensionercritical

Early tensioner can let the chain slip.

Fix / Workaround: Fit revised tensioner/chain.

Repair cost: €600–€1500

Typically appears after: 100,000 km

Water pump / injectorsrecurring

Water pump leaks; injectors can clog/leak.

Fix / Workaround: Replace as needed.

Repair cost: €150–€600

Year Cutoffs

2013: Before — 2009–2012 — heavy oil consumption (piston rings). After — 2013+ facelift — largely resolved.

Mileage Thresholds

After 100,000 km: Oil/chain attention; worse on pre-2013.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

  • ☐Oil consumption check is essential — prefer 2013+
  • ☐Cold-start rattle check (chain)
  • ☐Water pump history
  • ☐Avoid Multitronic CVT

Frequently asked questions

Is the Audi A4 B8 2.0 TFSI (CAEB/CDNC, EA888) reliable?

History-Dependent — Strong 2.0 turbo, but the defining issue is excessive oil consumption on 2009–2012 units (worn/faulty piston rings burning oil). Audi revised it for the 2013+ facelift, where the engine is much improved. Also watch the timing-chain tensioner and water pump. A 2013+ or low-oil-use car is good; an early oil-burner is a costly rebuild.

What are the common problems and reviews for the Audi A4 B8 2.0 TFSI (CAEB/CDNC, EA888)?

The most commonly reported problems: Excessive oil consumption (2009–2012), Timing chain tensioner, Water pump / injectors.

Is a used Audi A4 B8 2.0 TFSI (CAEB/CDNC, EA888) worth buying?

The engine itself is OK; condition is everything. Unknown or patchy history = walk away.