VW TSI 2.0 Turbo Engine - Top 3 Failures

[@NorthernStare]

I have a 2008 VW Scirocco 2.0TSi GT with 114,000 miles, I've owned it for about 4 years, no problems at all with the engine, apart from replacing a couple of ignition coils 2 years ago, zero hassle - and that's a 16 year old car. So folks, if a car hasn't been abused and has a good history they are as reliable as any engine - don't be put off 2.0TSi completely.

[@motorcarnut]

True, but these failures aren’t do to owner neglect.

[@KrezaTM]

I have a 2009 VW Scirocco 2.0TSi with 90,000 miles. It's been tuned to almost 300hp with some bolt ons for half it's life too, and honestly all I've done is replace these damn coil packs. Solid engine! **Just remembered previous owner replaced the timing chain tensioner. Probably a good idea with these engines.

[@Bmovie5000]

I agree completely. I’ve got a 2009 Passat with the 2.0 TSI and 175,000KM. It hasn’t been perfect, but it has never left me stranded. That said, I’ve been proactive in my maintenance, replacing the original coils and having the early, failure prone timing belt tensioner and chains replaced with upgraded parts. With frequent oil changes, I’m hoping I can get at least another 150,000KM out of the car.

[@Owenage1000]

​@@Bmovie5000 In the video you said that if the PCV/oil separator produces negative pressure, it means it is damaged. I read information on the forums that if the oil filler cap sucks, it means it is damaged. That's why I'm asking. In the 1.4 16V VW I do not have such an effect - the cap unscrews normally when the engine is running, but the revolutions change for a moment. However, in the 2.0TSI, the revs increase for a moment and the cap is sucked in.

[@Dzaen2]

The 2.0 TSI is a pretty good and reliable engine actually

[@robertreeg8212]

Thank you for the video. I have a 2018 Passat with 42K, I'm the original owner and haven't had any issues. I think it's a wonderful engine. My Passat on a long trip will get 40 MPG and with mixed driving 35MPG. When you enter a highway it had plenty of power. I had an engine light warning me about the oil separator and VW changed it right away.

[@motorcarnut]

Thank you! Yes they are great cars when properly maintained like yours!

[@armando19]

Me going, check, check, check, check on every issue 🤣. We've been through all of them with my 185K miles Gti, except the timing chain tensioner which I replaced as soon as I learned about that issue.

[@motorcarnut]

Yes that's important. I have many videos to keep your VW troble free by catching the problems before they start.

[@steviesteve750]

The timing chain tensioner failure is all over the various VAG brand forums, and the fix was implemented some years ago now. One big positive about these EA888 engines is that they are strong. You can tune them without much fear 9f premature failure, unlike the more recent 1.5 TSI engines that have slowly been introduced across vag.

[@motorcarnut]

Yep that's true. They are great engines

[@chinoxSD]

I have a 2024 volkswagen atlas with that same engine ...So far it was 5k miles . Thanks for the information Brotha !!! Youve got a new subscriber

[@motorcarnut]

Thank you as well for the comment and sub!!!!

[@larry6390]

I have 2018 no any issue at all.

[@AhmedMohamed-eb4st]

@@larry6390 those issues were before 2013

[@bh2155]

Everything you said is true. I have a 2012 VW Beetle turbo. I am on my 5th manifold since I purchased the car brand new in 2013. The last two manifolds lasted only 6 months. I replaced the PCV valve and had carbon build up cleaned from the engine. My question to you is the car had 112k miles timing belt chain tensioner is original. Should I get this replaced now?

[@motorcarnut]

Only if it’s the old type. I have a video on identifying the new one versus the old one. If yours is the new style one you should be fine if not, replace it immediately.

[@a.k.mukherjee3873]

It's a very informative and serious video.

[@motorcarnut]

Yes it is, thank you for the comment.

[@tronlinestream]

@@motorcarnut Are any of these applicable to EA888 2.0T Evo4 released in 2022. As a normal user what precautions can i take? Multi point check every 6 months with an Oil Change as well?

[@motorcarnut]

@tronlinestream Your engine is not on this list but yes keeping up oil changes, coolant system maintenance and regular tune ups air filter spark plugs etc. you’ll be fine.

[@drewblum8048]

Thanks so much for the video! I’ve got a 2012 Tiguan with 130k miles with an oil leak and my shop is recommending I replace the cylinder cover. Could you help advise what parts I should buy and supply so they can do this fix? Thank you!

[@motorcarnut]

You're very welcome. They will just need to reseal the camshaft cover. But use the correct sealant or it will destroy the engine. Here is a video on this exact part. kzbin.infouxc_3Qurar8

[@johnjon6349]

Great information.

[@motorcarnut]

Thanks! Glad you found it helpful.

[@josesaldivar2557]

Thank you! You just saved me from buying a good deal 2.0T

[@motorcarnut]

Sure, no problem. It's not a bad engine, just things you should be aware of.

[@YuriiT.]

After I look review of each engine in this world I understand that the better is to drive bicycle)))

[@sanyopoweraid1]

Did they ever update the PCV valve like they did the timing chain tensionor in about 2013?

[@motorcarnut]

Yes, if you get it from the dealer ,if not you'll be taking a chance .

[@sanyopoweraid1]

@@motorcarnut Sorry, I meant in the later models of the vehicles. Did they install the better PCV valve in later models, or are all models operating with the old faulty PCV even though a new PCV is available? I have a 2017 Tiguan. that's why I am wondering.

[@motorcarnut]

Yes, yours should have the new one.

[@sanyopoweraid1]

@@motorcarnut thanks a lot for the replies

[@motorcarnut]

@sanyopoweraid1 sure, no problem!

[@MrRikki52b]

I have 1.8 EA888 Gen 3 huge difference

[@motorcarnut]

Yes, they are better

[@RODRIGOGAMBOA-jn2tr]

Hello, will the Atlas with the 2.0 TSI 2024 be a good purchase option? What faults could it have? The atlas has just arrived in Peru, produced in the USA

[@motorcarnut]

Too new to tell but they are very reliable compared to the older engines that's for sure.

[@Gsplprchr7]

Any known, serious issues with the 2019 sel with the tsi engine?

[@motorcarnut]

No, they are very reliable. They are direct injection engine so keeping up on the normal carbon build up is a key to longevity.

[@bchaveezy]

Good video

[@motorcarnut]

Glad you enjoyed

[@wrangler0829]

All good info, but can you fix mine when it breaks?

[@motorcarnut]

Of course

[@wrangler0829]

@@motorcarnut my man!

[@motorcarnut]

@wrangler0829 much love!

[@cdawg9149]

I was just doing research on VW turbo 2.0 turbo motor before I bought. That just ended. Next. THX for making the vid

[@motorcarnut]

No problem, glad it helped!

[@hivepixels]

They ( VAG ) have updated the timing chain tension for a better designed on. Do you know exactly when they did it ? I'd like to know from what month/year was the release

[@motorcarnut]

Supposedly from 2013 on has the newer timing chain tensioner

[@hivepixels]

@@motorcarnut Cheers !

[@motorcarnut]

No problem!

[@LyubomirStoychev]

Thank you very much for the good information. I am about to order a Skoda superb 2023 and I am really split between TDI 2.0 200 hp and TSI 2.0 280hp (which should be the EA888 evo4) - Aren't these 280 hp too much for the longevity of a 2.0 engine? Would I expect the chain tensioner issue be fixed on that model?

[@motorcarnut]

The new ones should be fine. The TDI would be my choice.

[@Asterix-m4q]

Lol. 280 is pretty relaxed, don't forget from a good 2.0 you can get 1000, so 400 hp caps at reliability, your 300 go is under threshold greets from Romania

[@bukwheeet]

Are these found in the 2022 Arteon? Really thinking about getting one but I'm concerned about the longevity of the engine and DSG transmission. Is this combination capable of getting 200,000 miles?

[@motorcarnut]

They are much better in 2022 and will easily last over 200k with proper maintenance.

[@qintang2191]

I am looking for a mid SUV such as VW Atlas that equips a TSI engine, just wanna know it is reliable or not and what I should take care of for it?

[@motorcarnut]

You should be fine with that vehicle with proper maintenance.

[@TJ-dg6uk]

Just bought a 2024 gli a few months ago in August brand new, woke up to go to work today and engine light is flashing, exhaust smells like rotten eggs and motor is knocking like you wouldn’t believe. It’s a 6 speed Manual, any time I let off the gas it dies it won’t idle. Only 15,000 km on it. Wish I never traded my truck in for this

[@motorcarnut]

Sounds like you need to take it back to the dealer ASAP Can just but a fluke. They will fix it and should be fine, they are great cars don't get discouraged.

[@TJ-dg6uk]

@ took it to them, motors blown and they said it’s not covered under warranty for abuse because a dtc scan detected redlining. Crazy how a vehicle advertised as a performance line and is advertised as a “sports car” is not supposed to be driven fast or u end up having to pay $12,000 out of pocket

[@Owenage1000]

Hi If my 2.0 TSI sucks in air when I unscrew the cap (it sucks in the oil filler cap), then the oil separator needs to be replaced, right?

[@Owenage1000]

The engine works normally, there are no leaks. It has 50,000 miles on it

[@motorcarnut]

No, who said that, with engine running you will have vacuum if you try to remove oil cap.

[@Owenage1000]

In the video you said that if the PCV/oil separator produces negative pressure, it means it is damaged. I read information on the forums that if the oil filler cap sucks, it means it is damaged. That's why I'm asking. In the 1.4 16V VW I do not have such an effect - the cap unscrews normally when the engine is running, but the revolutions change for a moment. However, in the 2.0TSI, the revs increase for a moment and the cap is sucked in.

[@philpots3216]

​@Owenage1000 hi, not sure what gen ea888 you have but on the gen3 there is supposed to be suction, that's the whole point of a pcv valve, it sucks the oil spits and gases from the cam case and sends it back into the bottom end.as he stated in video for emissions reasons, the pcv valve is there to create a vacuum which inturn diverts the oil n that back into the block. If you ever see constant smoke coming from your exhaust then your first port of call would be to check and replace the pcv if need be... don't ignore a continuous smoking exhaust.also by removing the oil cap or dipstick whilst the engine is idling then you are technically causing a vacuum leak.. if you do it 2many times you will get an engine checklist come on😅😅 it should go off though once you have turned off the car for 10 mins and pressure is restored👍

[@itdatanow]

You are outstanding ! Perfection sir! Thank you

[@motorcarnut]

You are very welcome and appreciate the kind support!

[@leo3325]

Any interval for pcv replacement. My 2015 q5 75k miles runs well. No suction f try I’m the hole. But I fell suction when pulling oil cap. Is it normal?

[@motorcarnut]

Slight suction when removing oil cap is normal. I'd replace the PCV valve at your mileage. Becuase it the PCV valve goes it will almost always blow the rear main seal.I have videos on that too.

[@mike-yp1uk]

Good information

[@motorcarnut]

Thank you!

[@jianh1989]

is this also found in the Porsche Macan?

[@motorcarnut]

No

[@The-Wise-One]

Thank you. Is this also on the Skoda Superb 2022, 2023 162TSI ?

[@motorcarnut]

No, you should be fine.

[@codysuliman]

Hi is this also on 2010 vw passat? Would be very grateful for this as we are looking to purchase a 2010 vw passat 2.0t wagon. Thanks😊😊

[@motorcarnut]

Yes, they are great vehicles you just have to make sure those things were done or plan on spending the extra money upfront or to negotiate a better price.

[@Bmovie5000]

Yes, though by 2010 the TSI might have gotten the upgraded timing chain tensioner and thus less likely to fail. However you still might have to have inspected to find out.

[@MystcFrost]

Hello, I have a 2012 Tiguan and for some reason it’s only averaging about 13mpg city driving it extremely slowly and about 18mpg on the highway is there anything that could be causing this issue?

[@motorcarnut]

Does it have the DSG transmission?

[@MystcFrost]

@@motorcarnut No, it is the FWD version with the 6 speed automatic. Thank you for your help!

[@motorcarnut]

@MystcFrost hmm, make sure air filter is clean, maybe you have a dragging brake caliper or something in the braking system not releasing properly. Make sure there is no check engine light on for O2 sensors.

[@MystcFrost]

@@motorcarnutYeah i recently just changed out the spark plugs, coil packs, and air filter and it brought up the mpg from 9 to 13 and it planning on changing the intake manifold as per your video because of a p2015 code, I will make sure to check out the brakes now though too! Thank you so much for your help!

[@motorcarnut]

Sure, no problem, hope it helps.

[@ExTaZyeahzz]

2014 gti (230hp) is scrap or fixed the problems?

[@motorcarnut]

Depends on if the vehicle is worth it and more importantly worth it to you.

[@StefanFinster]

A4 and A5 2.0 Tfsi 100,000miles + no issues

[@motorcarnut]

That's great, not all fail especially if they are properly maintained.

[@StefanFinster]

Its the EA888 gen 3 from 2018

[@motorcarnut]

Yep. that's why, most of the bugs were worked out by then.

[@Mr.23cm]

What's the timing Jobs cost? Parts and labor

[@motorcarnut]

Depends if anything else was damaged, where you are, and who does the job. Too wide of a range to give an accurate estimate

[@Mr.23cm]

@@motorcarnut what would your charge hoping it's just replacing parts no damage

[@TexasBean956ALV]

Thank you very much.

[@motorcarnut]

Sure! No problem! Thanks for the comment

[@belfastladd28]

Thanks man appreciated 😊

[@motorcarnut]

No problem 👍

[@PadmaDorjee]

Awesome video, I may just not buy an Audi S3 Afterall.

[@motorcarnut]

They are great vehicles, I wouldn’t not buy one. Every manufacturer has their own problems.

[@backtoshallabal6662]

I have a 24' GLI, am I safe from these issues?

[@motorcarnut]

Yes, it’s a new vehicle so only time will tell.

[@jhhudson47]

Does this video pertain to these engines of today or in the past? I've got a 2013 Tiguan with this engine. So far I've removed the old sealant and put new sealant on the upper cam cover (oil leak solved). New vacuum gaskets, new time chain cover gasket.

[@motorcarnut]

2013 up should be fine

[@josephpadilla8697]

I have a 2015 volswagen tiguan when i bring the rpm to 2000 i get a red low oil presure light ?

[@motorcarnut]

Make sure oil pressure switch plug is secure, and could be clogged pick up screen in oil pan or an oil control problem. Any codes?

[@diegolinan-guzman9632]

I have a 2011 Tiguan that has a the dreaded p0299 code after replacing the diverter valve and then The turbo solenoid I’m left with replacing my turbocharger my waste gate rode is lose so I think that’s where my p0299 code is coming from. Should I get a new turbocharger or use a tool called turbobend to fix the waste gate rod- car is on original turbocharger with 165k do you think I can get more miles out of my current turbo or just replace it new now?

[@motorcarnut]

It's probably the wastegate flapper. I'd replace it first before condemning turbocharger.

[@cryptoisaac]

I was going to look at a 2009 VW Passat 2.0T with 102k miles for 4600 would you recommend? Any suggestions besides the timing chain and PCV check? I really like this car so hopefully it’s a good deal 😊

[@motorcarnut]

Make sure there is no main seal leaks, timing chain tensioner was replaced and no recently cleared engine codes indicating a possible problem.

[@Phytopathology]

Thanks!, what is your location?

[@motorcarnut]

No problem! Currently NY but moving

[@diegoezequiel1900]

I drove my 2014 Tiguan all good and then after parking it for 30 mins it won’t start or start and then turns off. Any idea it could be? I think it could be the crankshift

[@motorcarnut]

Could be , any codes?

[@888Longball]

Is this engine too small for the Atlas?

[@motorcarnut]

No

[@Victor-t9c6k]

What year ??

[@motorcarnut]

Happens way more on 2009 to 2012 but even higher but with less failures.

[@basskot2638]

What generation is this engine, I know it's the EA888 but what gen?

[@motorcarnut]

EA888 is third generation, these in the video are second generation

[@basskot2638]

Thank you so much, I just bought a 23 GLI and just wanted to know what to look for@@motorcarnut

[@motorcarnut]

No problem, you should be fine, enjoy!

[@bennbotsio860]

There is this sudden alert Low Oil pressure alert, with Oil can signal flashing on the dashboard...yet the dipstick reads correct gauge showing good amount of oil in the engine...whats this problem???? for 2012 Passat CC 2.0 tsi turbo

[@motorcarnut]

You have to check oil pressure from sensor near filter with a gauge and see if it’s the faulty sensor or a real low oil pressure problem Which can be a number of things.

[@midcenturymodern9330]

This looks like gen. 1 or gen. 2 of this engine. Is the third generation also affected by these problems?

[@motorcarnut]

Not really

[@Bmovie5000]

Nope, 3rd Gen are pretty good

[@Yatolakamunee]

My tiguan water pump went bad at 70k, hit 103k and it burned oil. Required major repairs. Terrible engine

[@motorcarnut]

Sounds like you got a couple of bad parts, but they do last a while on these engines

[@shanedusautoy3661]

That seal looks like it could be a ptfe seal. They are usually not spring energised as they rely on low pressure but bigger area to seal and are capable of higher surface speeds than traditional seals. Probably needed because of the huge diameter. May be very expensive seal made badly to solve a problem that should not exist

[@motorcarnut]

Yes, it’s glued on the backing plate. Cheap part

[@FaithisKey792]

I have the same engine on a 09 VW Passat 2.0T- B6. I was told by a mechanic I trust that I have a rear main seal leak possibly. I told him I was driving and I got a message on the dashboard saying “engine oil pressure low, pull over”. I pulled over right away, thank God I was 1 minute away from a gas station. When I checked the oil level it seemed very low. I bought 2 quarts and filled it up, I drove home a bit scared since this hasn’t happened before. once home I did an oil and filter changed. I had asked the mechanic when he was available to fix it, but he never gave me a date. He also said I can drive it and nothing else will happened until it gets fixed. Other than a small oil leak. Is this correct, his assumption. I have noticed a leak from the flywheel/clutch/pressure-plate inspection hole... once the engine is running. I have driven the car for 3 days since and the engine oil still full, the brake fluid is full as well. Is there anything I need to worry about. Thank you for your help and helpful videos. May God and Mary bless you all.

[@motorcarnut]

Check this out first. m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/i4vQdKpjd7OCoKc Also, I would not drive it too much longer if in fact it is the rear main seal.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Every direct-injection engine with EGR is going to get gunked up on the intake ducts. Unless you have MPI and DI combo with sufficient switching intervals between the systems, to wash down the intake ducts.

[@motorcarnut]

Exactly true!

[@nesamina123]

I have 2011 GTI 2.0 tsi 145.000 miles right now should i replace the tensioner?

[@motorcarnut]

Definitely

[@mohamedalryah287]

2016 CC with over 70k mileage, i changed the manifold twice already and water pump, water pipes, alternator, ac compressor twice, radiator, feul pump That manifold is completely the most cheapest peice of plastic i ever seen Never VW again

[@motorcarnut]

Sorry to hear your misfortune with VW's. The ones I have owned I loved. Yes they have their problems but any vehicle does.

[@2000saylv]

Is this engine in the new 2023 Golf GTI Engine as well????? I was thinking of getting one, but after seeing this, I'll pass. Thanks for video

[@motorcarnut]

Thanks for the comment. The new ones are way more reliable. I wouldn’t pass because of the older ones that had problems.

[@steviesteve750]

There are many more fragile engines than the EA888. I'd have one again tomorrow.

[@Bmovie5000]

New TSI’s, different problems. I’d agree that for building power EA888’s are fantastic.

[@BuddyJones-r6x]

The most ridiculous thing on the VW B6 is the DSG tranny fluid change. Leave it to the Germans to defy gravity to refill the transmission and make everyone miserable .

[@motorcarnut]

They are not the only ones.

[@KARENSUTERA]

Beetles too

[@motorcarnut]

Yep, all 2.0 turbo TSI engines

[@nerko0genius]

Don’t forget about oil consumption

[@motorcarnut]

Oil consumption is not a failure, most if not all engines consume some oil, some more than others.

[@ahmadalbab5448]

Generasi ke 2 ni kan

[@motorcarnut]

Yes

[@youbiker]

thats why you will fix it 😅😅😅

[@motorcarnut]

And help others as well.

[@jordanvine2466]

I have one of these in my 2010 with 90k on the clock and I live in fear.

[@motorcarnut]

Just maintain it with all my videos on this engine and you’ll be fine.

[@navistormrage5057]

2019 also crap or , and can that be 'fixed ' before it goes to hell

[@motorcarnut]

2013 up not really affected, No.

[@navistormrage5057]

@@motorcarnut thx for reply and for vid , maybe I'll risk with 2019 ,2.0tsi 180hp 4 motion R line DSG , price is good and km is around 60k

[@motorcarnut]

Yes, if maintained they are great vehicles

[@dspock]

@@motorcarnutI have a 2013 CC 2.0t. Had the water pump go up on me the other night. I knew it once I found the coolant hoses to be cool to the touch. But that’s another weak point on these cars. Those plastic parts really kill the reliability on them

[@motorcarnut]

@dspock true, they all do it now.

[@2ex757]

Your biggest failure is the timing chain tensioner fail it's a $3000 motor rebuild or more for a new or used motor the great VW people used a crappy design to hold a very important thing. get it replace get it replaced asap

[@motorcarnut]

Absolutely

[@lilamize7676]

I hate timing 😒

[@motorcarnut]

Don’t hate timing if you maintain your vehicle timing will love you back

[@sandman9000]

I love you

[@motorcarnut]

Wow, thank you!

[@justacinnamonbun8658]

Unbelievable. Leave it to the Germans to take something as simple as a PCV valve and turn it into that electronically controlled monstrosity you see there. I have no sympathy for people that buy these cars without researching. Or any car for that matter. These are endless money pits for sure. I would never ever buy a direct injection engine without the MPI piggybacking on the intake side. Even those injectors are not on all the time so this system would carbon up a little more than a traditional MPI alone system.

[@motorcarnut]

It’s not do much the Germans but all vehicle manufacturers are trying their best to combat emissions while saying money so that’s where we are now.

[@justacinnamonbun8658]

@@motorcarnut At the end of the day, you can only do so much to combat emissions, aside from everyone trading in their cars for bicycles. You're always going to have some emissions, I think the government is going crazy, pushing the manufacturers to go crazy, coming up with all this hair brained technology that fails miserably and the consumer is left holding the bag.

[@motorcarnut]

I agree 100% couldn’t have said it better.

[@bh2155]

Well I have a 2012 VW Beetle 2.0 T which I purchased in 2013 before all of these problems were discovered with the engine.

[@MileHighJay]

@@bh2155have you had any major issues with the engine on your 2012 beetle

[@SantiagoRodriguez-we6jo]

So basically if you have this motor you’re fucked

[@SantiagoRodriguez-we6jo]

I did about everything you said and my turbo is now leaking again yayyy das auto

[@motorcarnut]

Honestly, they do have their share of failures, but overall are very good engines.

[@motorcarnut]

Leaking from where?

[@SantiagoRodriguez-we6jo]

@@motorcarnut i believe the turbo

[@SantiagoRodriguez-we6jo]

@@motorcarnut there was a small drip but i also replaced the turbo sadly its hard af to find brand new turbo replacements for this motor literally ordered 3 they all were wrong