Volkswagen Golf 1.2/1.4 TSI Engine ReplacementCompare Prices & Get Quotes
Get quotes today for your Volkswagen Golf 1.2 or 1.4 TSI engine replacement from trusted UK specialists. Compare prices on reconditioned, rebuilt and used Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI engines with warranty-backed supply and fit options.
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
From £1,500 to £2,800 · 1.4 TSI (CAXA/CAVD) - from £1,800 to £3,500
Used from £600 · Reconditioned from £1,200 · Common codes: CBZB, CJZA, CYVA, CAXA, CAVA, CAVD
From £600
Tested, bare/short engine
From £1,200
Rod bearings addressed, tested
From quote
Upgraded bearings, full teardown, revised valvetrain
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3 Simple Steps3 Simple Stepsto Finding the Best Volkswagen Golf 1.2/1.4 TSI Replacement Engineto Finding the Best Volkswagen Golf 1.2/1.4 TSI Replacement Engine
Most replacements completed within 3-5 days.
Variant HistoryVolkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI & 1.4 TSI - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI engines were introduced as part of Volkswagen's TSI (Turbo Stratified Injection) family, offering efficient turbocharged petrol power across the Golf Mk5, Mk6 and Mk7 generations. The 1.4 TSI arrived first in 2005, followed by the 1.2 TSI in 2008, with a major engineering split between the earlier EA111 chain-driven units and the later EA211 belt-driven engines introduced from 2012 onwards.
Variant HistoryVolkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI & 1.4 TSI - Engine History & Specs at a Glance
The Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI engines were introduced as part of Volkswagen's TSI (Turbo Stratified Injection) family, offering efficient turbocharged petrol power across the Golf Mk5, Mk6 and Mk7 generations. The 1.4 TSI arrived first in 2005, followed by the 1.2 TSI in 2008, with a major engineering split between the earlier EA111 chain-driven units and the later EA211 belt-driven engines introduced from 2012 onwards.
Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI & 1.4 TSI
Fuel TypePetrol
Engine Size Range1.2L (1,197cc) - 1.4L (1,390cc)
Power Output Range86-160bhp across the variant's historyEngine History Timeline
1.4 TSI 122bhp (CAXA) - Golf Mk5 launch 1,390cc, DOHC 16-valve, turbocharged, timing chain
1.2 TSI 105bhp (CBZB) - Golf Mk6 launch 1,197cc, SOHC 8-valve, turbocharged, timing chain
1.4 TSI 160bhp (CAVD) - Twincharger (turbo + supercharger) variant introduced
1.2 TSI 105bhp (CJZA) - EA211 belt-driven engine introduced improved reliability
1.2 TSI 86bhp (CJZB/CYVA) - EA211 lower-power variant timing belt
1.4 TSI 122bhp (CAXA) - Continued in Mk6 with updated tensioner design
1.2 TSI phased out - Replaced by 1.0 TSI in Golf Mk8
Key Specs Snapshot
Fuel TypePetrolEngine Size Range1.2L (1,197cc) - 1.4L (1,390cc)Power Output Range86-160bhp across the variant's historyYears Produced2005-2020Every engine fitted to the Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI is covered below, with UK rebuilt pricing and known failure points.
Volkswagen Golf TSI Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement CostVolkswagen Golf TSI Engine Codes - Specifications & Replacement Cost
CBZB (2008-2012)
Power Output105bhp (77kW)Years Fitted2008-2012
Compatible Trim Levels
- Golf S
- Golf SE
- Golf Match
- Golf BlueMotion Technology
Find your exact engine code, specs and UK replacement cost guide.
Used
Tested, ready-to-fit engine
£600-£1,100
Reconditioned
Addressed known issues, tested
£1,200-£2,000
Rebuilt
Full teardown, upgraded internals
£1,500-£2,800
Common Failure
The CBZB is an EA111 chain-driven engine. Timing chain stretch and tensioner failure are well-documented, typically occurring from 60,000-100,000 km (37,000-62,000 miles). Cold-start rattle is the primary warning sign. Oil change intervals of 20,000 miles are too long - frequent oil changes are critical to prevent chain wear.
The Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI engines are popular for their efficiency and performance, but they have well-documented weak points - timing chain tensioner failure on EA111 units, timing belt wear on EA211 units, and turbocharger issues. Rebuilt Golf TSI engines supplied through EnginesMarket typically include upgraded timing components, new water pump, and refreshed turbocharger hardware, plus a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty.
Why the Volkswagen Golf 1.2/1.4 TSI EA111 Rattles
Affected Vehicles
Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI (CBZB) and 1.4 TSI (CAXA, CAVA, CAVD), 2005-2012
Typical Failure Mileage
37,000-62,000 miles (60,000-100,000 km)
Root Cause
The EA111 timing chain tensioner is a known weak point. The design is poor - chains stretch and the tensioner fails, causing timing to jump. Early CAXA-family tensioners are the common culprit before Volkswagen revised the design. Symptoms include cold-start rattle, rough idle, hesitation, poor fuel economy, and power loss. If ignored, the chain can jump teeth, causing bent valves and catastrophic engine failure.
Why It Happens
The EA111 timing chain tensioner is a known weak point. The design is poor - chains stretch and the tensioner fails, causing timing to jump. Early CAXA-family tensioners are the common culprit before Volkswagen revised the design. Symptoms include cold-start rattle, rough idle, hesitation, poor fuel economy, and power loss. If ignored, the chain can jump teeth, causing bent valves and catastrophic engine failure.
Dealer (parts + labour)
£1,500-£2,500
Specialist (parts + labour)
£900-£1,600
What it involves
New chain, tensioner, guides, sprockets. Requires significant engine disassembly. 8-12 hour job.
Suitability
Viable if caught early (cold-start rattle only). Prevents catastrophic failure.
1 - 2 daysDealer (parts + labour)
£2,500-£4,000
Specialist (parts + labour)
£1,800-£2,800
What it involves
Remove cylinder head, replace bent valves, new guides and seals, timing components.
Suitability
Required if chain has jumped and valves have contacted pistons.
1 - 2 daysDealer (parts + labour)
£3,500-£5,500
Specialist (parts + labour)
£1,800-£3,500
What it involves
Supply & fit, rebuilt engine with upgraded timing components, 12-month warranty
Suitability
Best if chain has snapped, if bore scoring is present, or if head rebuild + other work exceeds 60% of replacement cost.
1 - 2 daysAll prices are indicative UK market ranges based on current UK specialist supplier data.| Repair Tier | Dealer (Parts + Labour) | Specialist (Parts + Labour) | What It Involves | Suitability | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Timing chain kit replacement Minor | £1,500-£2,500 | £900-£1,600 | New chain, tensioner, guides, sprockets. Requires significant engine disassembly. 8-12 hour job. | Viable if caught early (cold-start rattle only). Prevents catastrophic failure. | 1 - 2 days |
 Cylinder head rebuild (if chain has jumped) Best Value | £2,500-£4,000 | £1,800-£2,800 | Remove cylinder head, replace bent valves, new guides and seals, timing components. | Required if chain has jumped and valves have contacted pistons. | 1 - 2 days |
Full replacement - rebuilt/reconditioned engine Best Value | £3,500-£5,500 | £1,800-£3,500 | Supply & fit, rebuilt engine with upgraded timing components, 12-month warranty | Best if chain has snapped, if bore scoring is present, or if head rebuild + other work exceeds 60% of replacement cost. | 1 - 2 days |
Vehicle Value Check
Vehicle Value Check
A typical Volkswagen Golf 1.2/1.4 TSI of relevant age (2005-2014) sits in the £2,000-£8,000 value band, depending on generation, mileage, and condition. For examples under £3,500, a timing chain replacement at specialist rates (£900-£1,600) is borderline but defensible. For higher-value Mk6 examples (£5,000-£8,000), a full rebuilt engine with warranty (£1,800-£3,500) is the safer long-term investment.
Our Recommendation
Our Recommendation
If you hear a cold-start rattle from your Golf 1.2/1.4 TSI, get it diagnosed immediately. A timing chain replacement caught early is far cheaper than a full engine rebuild. If the chain has already jumped or snapped, a full rebuilt engine with warranty is the only sensible option - the warranty protects you against secondary failure.
Don't Let Engine Failure Write Off Your Volkswagen Golf 1.2/1.4 TSI
Every rebuilt Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI engine supplied through EnginesMarket includes a minimum 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty and uses upgraded components addressing the original failure points - timing chain tensioner (EA111), timing belt (EA211), turbocharger, and direct-injection carbon management. Compare specialist pricing across the UK's largest network of Volkswagen petrol engine rebuilders - dealer prices average 30-50% higher, and you won't get the same warranty coverage.
Compare rebuilt EA111 Volkswagen Golf TSI engine prices
12-Month Minimum
UK Specialists Vetted
Best Price GuidanceImportant Information
Important Information
"All prices are indicative UK market ranges based on historical quote data and repair requests from our network of engine specialists. Dealer pricing is estimated based on published main dealer labour rates and genuine OEM parts pricing. Specialist pricing reflects actual quote data from EnginesMarket's UK network. Actual costs vary depending on damage severity, vehicle condition, variant, and workshop location within the UK. Use our free comparison tool to get tailored quotes for your specific Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI or 1.4 TSI. Every engine supplied through EnginesMarket carries a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty - always confirm exact terms with your chosen supplier."
Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI & 1.4 TSI Engine ReplacementFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a Volkswagen Golf 1.2 or 1.4 TSI engine replacement cost-
A Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI engine replacement typically costs £1,500-£2,800 supply-only for a rebuilt unit, with 1.4 TSI units from £1,800-£3,500. Used engines start from £600. Total fitted cost adds 8-14 hours of labour at specialist rates (£65-£85/hr) or dealer rates (£120-£180/hr).
- 1.2 TSI rebuilt supply-only: £1,500-£2,800 [ESTIMATED]
- 1.4 TSI rebuilt supply-only: £1,800-£3,500 [ESTIMATED]
- Supply & fit specialist total: £2,200-£4,500
- Main dealer supply & fit: £3,500-£5,500
Question 2What are the signs of timing chain failure in a Volkswagen Golf 1.2/1.4 TSI-
The most common sign of timing chain stretch in the EA111 engine is a metallic rattle on cold start, lasting 1-3 seconds. As wear progresses, you may hear a continuous rattle, experience poor acceleration, rough idle, hesitation, or see the engine management light illuminate with correlation fault codes (P0016, P0341).
- Cold-start rattle is the earliest warning - don't ignore it
- If the chain jumps, the engine may not start or may run very roughly
- Catastrophic failure can bend valves, requiring a full engine replacement
Question 3Is it worth replacing the engine in a Volkswagen Golf 1.2 or 1.4 TSI-
This depends on your Golf's overall condition and market value. For a well-maintained Mk6 or Mk7 (worth £4,000-£10,000), a rebuilt engine at £1,500-£3,500 is viable, especially with the 12-month warranty. For an older Mk5 example worth under £3,000, a used engine (£600-£1,400) or targeted repairs (timing chain, carbon cleaning) may be more cost-effective.
- Vehicle worth under £3,000: consider used engine or repair
- Vehicle worth £4,000+: rebuilt engine with warranty is sensible
- Factor in overall condition - bodywork, suspension, interior wear
Question 4How long does a Volkswagen Golf 1.2 or 1.4 TSI engine replacement take-
A Volkswagen Golf TSI engine replacement typically takes 2-3 working days for a specialist workshop, including removal of the old unit, fitting the replacement, and road testing. Main dealers may quote 3-5 days due to scheduling and OEM parts ordering.
- Supply-only delivery: next-day available across the UK
- Supply & fit: book a slot with your nearest specialist
- Express fitting available in some regions
Question 5What's the difference between the EA111 and EA211 TSI engines-
The EA111 (CBZB, CAXA, CAVD) is a chain-driven engine used from 2005-2012, known for timing chain tensioner failure. The EA211 (CJZA, CJZB, CYVA) is a belt-driven engine introduced from 2012 onwards, with improved reliability but a finite timing belt service life. The EA111 1.4 TSI twincharger (CAVD) adds a supercharger for 160bhp but is the most complex and failure-prone variant.
- EA111: chain-driven, higher timing chain failure risk
- EA211: belt-driven, requires regular belt replacement
- CAVD: twincharger, most complex, highest repair costs
Question 6Should I buy a used or rebuilt engine for my Volkswagen Golf 1.2 or 1.4 TSI-
Used engines are cost-effective (£600-£1,400) but come with unknown service history and no warranty beyond the supplier's standard 30-90 days - risk of the same timing chain or turbo issues reoccurring. Rebuilt engines (£1,500-£3,500) include new timing components, piston rings, bearings, turbo refresh, and a 12-month unlimited-mileage warranty, offering peace of mind for long-term ownership.
- Used: best for low-budget repairs on lower-value Golfs
- Rebuilt: best for long-term ownership (2+ years) and higher-value examples
- Always confirm what components were replaced in a rebuilt unit
Why Choose UsCompare Volkswagen Golf 1.2/1.4 TSIEngine PricesToday
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Compare free, no-obligation quotes from the UK's leading Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI engine specialists. Whether you need a used CBZB, a reconditioned CAXA, or a fully rebuilt EA211 with upgraded timing components and refreshed turbo hardware, EnginesMarket connects you with vetted suppliers who stock exactly what you need. Enter your registration, choose your condition, and book supply & fit - all in one place.
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