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Volkswagen CFGB Engine - Replacement Cost, Problems & CompatibilityProblems & Compatibility
The CFGB is the 170hp high-output variant of the Volkswagen Group’s EA189 2.0-litre TDI common-rail diesel engine, widely fitted to higher-spec trims of the Golf, Passat, and Audi A3 between 2008 and 2013. Reconditioned units are available from £2,200 . The broader EA189 2.0 TDI family generated 1,050 UK replacement requests in 2025 .
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
Used from
£900
Reconditioned from
£2,200
Rebuilt from
£3,200
GB
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Key Specs
Volkswagen CFGB - Specifications at a Glance
Engine Code
CFGB
Fuel
Diesel
Configuration
2.0L inline-4, common-rail direct injection (EA189 architecture)
Power Output(s)
170 hp (125 kW) / 350 Nm torque
Years Produced
2008-2013
UK Models Fitted
3 Volkswagen / Audi models - full list in Compatibility below
2025 UK Replacement Requests
1,050 (EA189 2.0 TDI family proxy)
Replaced
PD variants (e.g., BKD, BMM)
Replaced By
EA288 variants (e.g., CRLB, CUNA)
Most Common Failure
EGR valve clogging and DPF blockage
Reconditioned Price Range
£2,200-£3,800 supply-only
Vetted UK specialists for CFGB replacements
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
Fitted To
Which Volkswagen Models Use the CFGB-
The CFGB engine code was deployed as the high-output 170hp option within the EA189 2.0 TDI lineup, primarily targeting higher-spec trims and larger vehicles requiring stronger mid-range torque and towing capacity.
| Model | Generation/Chassis | Badge(s) | Years | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Volkswagen Golf | Mk6 | GT, GTD (early), Highline | 2008-2013 | |
| Volkswagen Passat | B6 / B7 | 2.0 TDI 170 | 2008-2013 | |
| Volkswagen Audi A3 | 8P (Facelift) | 2.0 TDI 170 | 2008-2012 |
02
Volkswagen Passat
03
Volkswagen Audi A3
CROSS-BRAND
CFGB is documented across 3 BMW applications spanning Volkswagen Golf, Volkswagen Passat, Audi A3. Registration lookup confirms the exact suffix before quotes are sent.
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Prices
Volkswagen CFGB Engine Replacement Cost (UK)
Condition | Supply Only | Fitted (Independent Specialist) | Typical Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
Used | £900-£2,000 | £1,420-£2,715 | 3-6 months |
Reconditioned | £2,200-£3,800 | £2,720-£4,515 | 12-24 months |
Rebuilt | £3,200-£5,000 | £3,720-£5,715 | 12-24 months |
All . Fitted = supply price + labour band below.
Labour Guide
Fitting a CFGB typically takes 8-11 hours at £65/hr (independent specialist rate) - confirm exact labour when comparing quotes.
Price Factors
The 170hp output of the CFGB means it was often subjected to harder driving cycles than the standard 140hp variants, making turbocharger health and DPF condition the primary drivers of replacement cost. A unit with a documented history of regular DPF regeneration and EGR maintenance will command the higher end of the reconditioned price spectrum. For a complete breakdown of how condition affects pricing, see our full reconditioned engine cost guide.
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Common Problems
Volkswagen CFGB Engine Problems - What Actually Fails
Every engine has its weak points. Here are the known issues with the CFGB, based on real-world data and verified failure patterns.
Verified issue focus: EGR valve clogging and DPF blockage.
1. EGR Valve Clogging & DPF Blockage - 2008-2013
1. EGR Valve Clogging & DPF Blockage - 2008-2013
Typical onset:
80k-150k miles
What happens:
The EA189 architecture is highly susceptible to carbon buildup in the EGR valve and exhaust gas recirculation pathways. This is frequently exacerbated by the manufacturer's emissions software updates, which altered EGR opening times to reduce NOx output, inadvertently accelerating DPF saturation and restricting exhaust flow.
Repair vs replace:
Isolated EGR cleaning or forced DPF regeneration can resolve early-stage symptoms. However, severe blockage combined with turbocharger strain or injector coking typically makes a full CFGB engine replacement the more economical long-term solution.
Read more about this issue
2. Turbocharger Failure (Variable Geometry) - 2008-2013
2. Turbocharger Failure (Variable Geometry) - 2008-2013
Typical onset:
90k-140k miles
What happens:
Carbon deposits can cause the variable geometry vanes inside the turbocharger to stick, leading to over-boosting or under-boosting conditions. If ignored, this can result in catastrophic turbo failure, sending metallic debris into the intercooler and intake manifold.
Repair vs replace:
Turbo replacement alone is possible, but if the engine has suffered oil starvation or debris ingestion, a full reconditioned CFGB unit is required to prevent immediate repeat failure.
Read more about this issue
The EA189 family, including the CFGB, is generally robust mechanically, but the post-2009 software updates significantly increased the frequency of emissions-related component failures compared to pre-facelift PD units .
Compare rebuilt CFGB prices with the failure already addressed
Engine Variants
How to Confirm You Have the CFGB
The CFGB engine code is stamped on a machined pad on the engine block, typically located near the oil filter housing or on the upper timing belt cover. It is also clearly listed on your vehicle’s V5C registration document under "Engine Number" and can be definitively verified via a VIN decode.
Not sure which engine your car has- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact CFGB fitment before any quotes are sent.
Easily Confused
EA189 PD variants (e.g. BMM)
The older Pumpe Düse units it replaced were mechanically simpler but lacked the refinement and Euro 5 emissions compliance of the CFGB's common-rail system.
Alternative / Next-Gen Code
CRLB
- The EA288 successor resolved many of the EA189's EGR and DPF saturation issues while introducing AdBlue for Euro 6 compliance.
Related JLR Variants
CFFB
- If your vehicle is the 170hp high-output variant rather than the 140hp CFGB, you need the CFFB page, as the turbocharger and ECU mapping differ significantly.
Confirm the exact CFGB fitment
Not sure which engine your car has- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact CFGB fitment before any quotes are sent.
Buying Guide
Buying a Replacement CFGB - What to Choose
Choosing the right replacement route depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and ownership goals. Here's a breakdown of your options.
Used:
A used CFGB is only advisable if it comes with a comprehensive, stamped service history proving regular DPF regenerations and EGR maintenance. Given the known risks of carbon buildup in the 170hp variant, a low-mileage used unit with documented care is the only safe used purchase. Compare used CFGB engines
Reconditioned:
This is the highly recommended route for the CFGB. A proper reconditioning process will proactively address the EA189's known weaknesses by renewing the EGR valve, cleaning or replacing the DPF, and inspecting the turbocharger, delivering near-new reliability without the premium of a brand-new unit. Compare reconditioned CFGB engines
Rebuilt:
A full rebuild is justified if the CFGB has suffered catastrophic turbo failure that sent debris into the cylinders, or if the vehicle is a high-value Passat or Audi A3 intended for long-term ownership. An upgraded rebuild should include a revised turbocharger and updated EGR components. Compare rebuilt CFGB engines
Supply & Fit Line:
Securing a CFGB through our network guarantees a minimum 12-month warranty, with nationwide delivery and the option for vetted local specialist fitting to ensure the job is done right the first time. Explore supply and fit options
Vehicle Value Note:
For typical host vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf Mk6, Passat B6/B7, or Audi A3 8P, current UK market values range from £2,500 to £9,000. A reconditioned CFGB replacement (£2,200-£3,800 supply-only) represents a significant portion of the vehicle's value. If the lowest viable replacement cost exceeds approximately 60% of the vehicle's current market value, evaluate scrap value before committing.
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Related Engines
Engines Related to the Volkswagen CFGB
Explore engines that are closely related to the Volkswagen CFGB, including its predecessor, successor, and key family variants.
Predecessor
EA189 PD variants (e.g. BMM)
The older Pumpe Düse units it replaced were mechanically simpler but lacked the refinement and Euro 5 emissions compliance of the CFGB's common-rail system.
Successor
CRLB
- The EA288 successor resolved many of the EA189's EGR and DPF saturation issues while introducing AdBlue for Euro 6 compliance.
Sibling
CFFB
- If your vehicle is the 170hp high-output variant rather than the 140hp CFGB, you need the CFFB page, as the turbocharger and ECU mapping differ significantly.
Sibling
CBAB
- The Euro 5 equivalent often found in slightly earlier or different market applications; while similar, the CFGB has specific emissions software revisions that affect interchangeability.
FAQ
Volkswagen CFGBFrequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a Volkswagen CFGB engine replacement cost-
A reconditioned Volkswagen CFGB engine costs between £2,200 and £3,800 for supply-only, or £2,720 to £4,515 fully fitted by an independent specialist . This pricing reflects the widespread availability of EA189 parts across the UK. Supply-only options allow for independent specialist fitting to manage overall labour costs. Get CFGB engine replacement quotes
Compare CFGB quotesQuestion 2What is the most common Volkswagen CFGB engine failure-
The most documented failure pattern involves EGR valve clogging and DPF blockage, frequently exacerbated by post-Dieselgate emissions software updates. These updates altered EGR opening times to reduce NOx output, inadvertently accelerating carbon buildup and restricting exhaust flow in urban driving conditions. Compare rebuilt CFGB prices with emissions systems addressed
Compare CFGB quotesQuestion 3Which car models use the Volkswagen CFGB engine-
The CFGB engine code is primarily fitted to the Volkswagen Golf Mk6, Passat B6/B7, and Audi A3 8P, serving as the standard 140hp 2.0 TDI common-rail option between 2008 and 2013. It was the volume diesel choice for these models before the EA288 generation arrived. Check your exact CFGB fitment by registration
Compare CFGB quotesQuestion 4Should I buy a used or reconditioned CFGB engine-
A reconditioned CFGB is highly recommended over a used unit due to the known risks of carbon buildup in the EGR and DPF systems. A professionally reconditioned unit ensures these critical emissions components are cleaned or renewed, preventing immediate repeat failures and MOT issues. View reconditioned CFGB engine options
Compare CFGB quotesQuestion 5How do I know if my car has the CFGB engine-
You can confirm the CFGB engine code by checking the vehicle’s V5C registration document under "Engine Number" or by locating the stamped code on the engine block near the oil filter housing. Do not rely solely on the "2.0 TDI" badge, as the CBAB and CFFB share the same external badging but have different internal hardware. Enter your reg to confirm your CFGB fitment
Compare CFGB quotesCompare Volkswagen CFGB Engine Prices Today
Vetted UK specialists who work on the Volkswagen CFGB and EA189 family every week Minimum 12-month warranty on every reconditioned and rebuilt CFGB unit Nationwide delivery - supply-only or full supply & fit available Our free, no-obligation comparison service connects you directly with verified UK engine specialists. Quotes are specific to your exact CFGB code, and our registration lookup confirms your fitment before any quotes are sent. With reconditioned Volkswagen CFGB units starting from £2,200, comparing takes two minutes and could save you four figures on your replacement.
Vetted UK Specialists
Vetted UK specialists for CFGB replacements
Minimum 12-Month Warranty
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
Nationwide Delivery
Nationwide delivery plus supply and fit availability
Expert Support
Secure enquiry - no spam. Quotes only from vetted UK engine specialists.
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