1.8 TSI 160hp (BZB / CDAA, EA888)
2007–2012 · petrol · 1798cc · 160hp
Engine codes: BZB, CDAA
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Seat Leon II 1.8 TSI 160hp (BZB / CDAA, EA888). Check this before you buy used.
Great to drive, but the EA888 1.8 TSI is notorious for heavy oil consumption (thin piston rings) plus timing-chain stretch and HPFP cam follower. Low-oil-use + chain-checked = good; unchecked = gamble.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (BZB) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
Thin rings cause heavy oil burning, up to ~2L/1,000km in bad cases.
Fix / Workaround: Check consumption; revised pistons/rings fix it (major job).
Repair cost: €1500–€3000
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
Chain stretches ~100,000 km; early tensioner can let it jump.
Fix / Workaround: Fit revised tensioner/chain.
Repair cost: €600–€1500
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
Follower under HP fuel pump wears.
Fix / Workaround: Inspect/replace periodically.
Repair cost: €30–€120
Typically appears after: 80,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 100,000 km: Oil consumption + chain peak.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Ask oil consumption + check dipstick
- ☐Cold-start rattle check
- ☐Cam follower history
- ☐Walk away from heavy oil-burners
Frequently asked questions
Is the Seat Leon II 1.8 TSI 160hp (BZB / CDAA, EA888) reliable?
History-Dependent — Great to drive, but the EA888 1.8 TSI is notorious for heavy oil consumption (thin piston rings) plus timing-chain stretch and HPFP cam follower. Low-oil-use + chain-checked = good; unchecked = gamble.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Seat Leon II 1.8 TSI 160hp (BZB / CDAA, EA888)?
The most commonly reported problems: Excessive oil consumption (piston rings), Timing chain stretch / tensioner, Cam follower wear (HPFP).
Is a used Seat Leon II 1.8 TSI 160hp (BZB / CDAA, EA888) worth buying?
The engine itself is OK; condition is everything. Unknown or patchy history = walk away.