1.4 TSI (CAVA / CTHA)
2010–2015 · petrol · 1390cc · 150hp
Engine codes: CAVA, CTHA, CAVB
Reliability, common problems and owner reviews for the Volkswagen Sharan II 1.4 TSI (CAVA / CTHA). Check this before you buy used.
The 1.4 TSI Twincharger (supercharger + turbo, EA111) makes a heavy seven-seat MPV feel surprisingly brisk on little fuel — but it's one of VAG's riskier petrols and it's working hard here. The timing-chain tensioner can fail and let the chain jump (catastrophic, bent valves), early pistons/rings could crack causing heavy oil consumption, and the supercharger clutch and HP pump add cost. A documented car with the revised tensioner and clean oil can be fine; an unknown-history one in a heavy MPV is a real gamble — the 2.0 TDI is the smarter Sharan engine.
Same engine, other cars
This is the same physical engine (CAVA) sold under different names across brands. Reliability is broadly shared — cross-check these:
Known Issues
Early tensioner can fail → chain jumps → bent valves / wrecked engine.
Fix / Workaround: Confirm revised tensioner fitted; replace chain kit proactively; listen for rattle.
Repair cost: €600–€2500
Typically appears after: 100,000 km
Early pistons/rings could crack → heavy oil consumption, misfires.
Fix / Workaround: Compression test; revised pistons in repair; check oil use.
Repair cost: €800–€3000
Typically appears after: 90,000 km
Year Cutoffs
Mileage Thresholds
After 100,000 km: Chain + piston risk window.
Pre-Purchase Checklist
- ☐Listen for chain rattle; confirm revised tensioner
- ☐Compression + oil-consumption check
- ☐2.0 TDI is the smarter MPV choice
Frequently asked questions
Is the Volkswagen Sharan II 1.4 TSI (CAVA / CTHA) reliable?
Problematic — The 1.4 TSI Twincharger (supercharger + turbo, EA111) makes a heavy seven-seat MPV feel surprisingly brisk on little fuel — but it's one of VAG's riskier petrols and it's working hard here. The timing-chain tensioner can fail and let the chain jump (catastrophic, bent valves), early pistons/rings could crack causing heavy oil consumption, and the supercharger clutch and HP pump add cost. A documented car with the revised tensioner and clean oil can be fine; an unknown-history one in a heavy MPV is a real gamble — the 2.0 TDI is the smarter Sharan engine.
What are the common problems and reviews for the Volkswagen Sharan II 1.4 TSI (CAVA / CTHA)?
The most commonly reported problems: Timing-chain tensioner failure, Piston / ring failure (oil use).
Is a used Volkswagen Sharan II 1.4 TSI (CAVA / CTHA) worth buying?
Known design issues and recurring faults that were never fully resolved. Buy only with eyes open.