1.8 TSI (CDAA / CDAB)
2010–2015 · petrol · 1798cc · 160hp
Engine codes: CDAA, CDAB, BZB
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Volkswagen Passat B7 1.8 TSI (CDAA / CDAB). Check this before you buy used.
The 1.8 TSI (CDAA, EA888 Gen2) is a strong, well-matched petrol for the Passat — but it's the oil-consumption-prone Gen2: original piston rings can burn oil, plus chain-tensioner attention and PCV/carbon. A car with revised pistons or documented controlled consumption and a healthy chain is a good engine; oil-use history is the defining check. Rare on the BG market versus the diesels.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (CDAA) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
Original rings cause oil consumption; can foul cats/plugs.
Fix / Workaround: Check consumption; revised piston/ring kit is the fix.
Repair cost: €150–€2500
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
Gen2 chain tensioner can fail; PCV faults; DI carbon.
Fix / Workaround: Revised tensioner; replace PCV; decarbon.
Repair cost: €200–€1800
Typically appears after: 120,000 km
Mileage Thresholds
After 120,000 km: Oil-use + chain window.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Oil-consumption history is the key check
- ☐Chain rattle / revised tensioner
- ☐Rare vs diesels on BG market
Frequently asked questions
Is the Volkswagen Passat B7 1.8 TSI (CDAA / CDAB) reliable?
Maint. Sensitive — The 1.8 TSI (CDAA, EA888 Gen2) is a strong, well-matched petrol for the Passat — but it's the oil-consumption-prone Gen2: original piston rings can burn oil, plus chain-tensioner attention and PCV/carbon. A car with revised pistons or documented controlled consumption and a healthy chain is a good engine; oil-use history is the defining check. Rare on the BG market versus the diesels.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Volkswagen Passat B7 1.8 TSI (CDAA / CDAB)?
The most commonly reported problems: Oil consumption (EA888 Gen2 rings), Timing-chain tensioner / PCV.
Is a used Volkswagen Passat B7 1.8 TSI (CDAA / CDAB) worth buying?
Fine if serviced correctly — but it punishes neglect hard. History and the right consumables matter.