1.2 TSI (CBZB)
2009–2015 · petrol · 1197cc · 105hp
Engine codes: CBZB, CBZA
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Skoda Yeti 1.2 TSI (CBZB). Check this before you buy used.
The 1.2 TSI (CBZB, EA111) makes the Yeti affordable but works hard in a small SUV. As an EA111 the key checks are the timing-chain tensioner (early ones could let the chain jump) and oil consumption/PCV. A documented car with the revised tensioner and clean oil is fine; an unknown early one carries the chain risk. Adequate, not strong, fully loaded.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (CBZB) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
- Volkswagen Golf VI— 1.2 TSI 105hp (CBZB)105hp
- Seat Toledo IV— 1.2 TSI (CBZ / CJZ)105hp
- Škoda Rapid— 1.2 TSI (CBZ / CJZ)105hp
- Volkswagen Polo— 1.2 TSI (CBZ, EA111)105hp
- Seat Ibiza— 1.2 TSI (CBZ, EA111)105hp
- Škoda Octavia II— 1.2 TSI 105hp (CBZB)105hp
- Volkswagen Golf VI— 1.2 TSI 85hp (CBZA)85hp
- Škoda Fabia II— 1.2 TSI (CBZ, EA111)105hp
Known Issues
Early tensioner can fail → chain jump → valve damage.
Fix / Workaround: Confirm revised tensioner; replace chain kit proactively.
Repair cost: €500–€2000
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
Some EA111 TSI use oil; PCV faults.
Fix / Workaround: Monitor oil; replace PCV.
Repair cost: €100–€600
Typically appears after: 110,000 km
Year Cutoffs
Mileage Thresholds
After 100,000 km: Chain-tensioner risk window.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Chain rattle / revised tensioner
- ☐Oil-consumption history
- ☐Works hard loaded
Frequently asked questions
Is the Skoda Yeti 1.2 TSI (CBZB) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The 1.2 TSI (CBZB, EA111) makes the Yeti affordable but works hard in a small SUV. As an EA111 the key checks are the timing-chain tensioner (early ones could let the chain jump) and oil consumption/PCV. A documented car with the revised tensioner and clean oil is fine; an unknown early one carries the chain risk. Adequate, not strong, fully loaded.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Skoda Yeti 1.2 TSI (CBZB)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing-chain tensioner (EA111), Oil consumption / PCV.
Is a used Skoda Yeti 1.2 TSI (CBZB) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.