2.0 TDI GTD 170hp (CFGB / CBBB)

2009–2013 · diesel · 1968cc · 170hp

Engine codes: CFGB, CBBB, CEGA

Problematic

Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Volkswagen Golf VI 2.0 TDI GTD 170hp (CFGB / CBBB). Check this before you buy used.

The high-output GTD diesel. Quick and torquey, but more to go wrong than the 140: early Siemens piezo injectors failed (many recalled/replaced — verify on the car), early builds share the common-rail oil-pump hex risk, and the DPF dislikes short trips. A sorted, post-recall, post-fix example can be good; choose the 140 unless this specific car checks out.

Same engine, other cars

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

Known Issues

Piezo injector failurecritical

Early Siemens piezo injectors fail, cutting the engine. Many were recalled/replaced — confirm on the specific car.

Fix / Workaround: Verify injector recall/replacement; budget for piezo injectors if not done.

Repair cost: €400–€1800

Typically appears after: 100,000 km

Oil pump / balance shaft hex (early builds)critical

Early common-rail builds share the 77mm oil-pump hex-drive failure risk; revised to 100mm later.

Fix / Workaround: Check build date; verify revised oil-pump shaft. Rattle at idle = stop.

Repair cost: €200–€3500

Typically appears after: 100,000 km

DPF cloggingrecurring

Blocks on short trips; failed regens need cleaning/replacement.

Fix / Workaround: Hot motorway runs; clean/replace if blocked.

Repair cost: €200–€1200

Year Cutoffs

2009: Before — Early piezo injectors + 77mm oil-pump hex. After — Injectors largely recalled; 100mm oil-pump shaft fitted.

Mileage Thresholds

After 100,000 km: Injector and (early-build) oil-pump risks.

Pre-Purchase Checklist

☐Verify piezo injectors were recalled/replaced
☐Establish build date for the oil-pump fix
☐Idle rattle check (oil-pump drive)
☐DPF history; prefer motorway-used cars
☐Consider the 140 instead unless history is excellent

Frequently asked questions

Is the Volkswagen Golf VI 2.0 TDI GTD 170hp (CFGB / CBBB) reliable?

Problematic — The high-output GTD diesel. Quick and torquey, but more to go wrong than the 140: early Siemens piezo injectors failed (many recalled/replaced — verify on the car), early builds share the common-rail oil-pump hex risk, and the DPF dislikes short trips. A sorted, post-recall, post-fix example can be good; choose the 140 unless this specific car checks out.

What are the common problems and reviews for the Volkswagen Golf VI 2.0 TDI GTD 170hp (CFGB / CBBB)?

The most commonly reported problems: Piezo injector failure, Oil pump / balance shaft hex (early builds), DPF clogging.

Is a used Volkswagen Golf VI 2.0 TDI GTD 170hp (CFGB / CBBB) worth buying?

Known design issues and recurring faults that were never fully resolved. Buy only with eyes open.