The downsizing debacle: The 1.2 TSI problems from VW

Do you drive a 1.2 TSI and have engine damage after only 100,000 kilometers? Unfortunately, this is no longer uncommon these days. The reason for this is the technology that goes into these engines, as well as the material used. Engines are becoming more and more compact. The reason for this is the ever more stringent environmental protection regulations imposed by the government that manufacturers are being confronted with. This hits your 1.2 TSI engine from VW particularly hard. Turbocharging and under-designed material ensure that engine damage can occur early.

But what does 1.2 TSI engine actually mean?

It is a compact 4-cylinder engine with almost 1200cm³ and an output of 86-105 hp. TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection: brand name for an engine technology from VW) is a type of petrol injection. In this case, the 1.2 TSI engine is direct injection.

VW uses TSI technology to make smaller-displacement engines similarly powerful to larger-displacement engines. The advantage here is that your vehicle consumes less fuel and is also cheaper in terms of vehicle tax. But the manufacturer also saves. Less material is required, which minimizes manufacturing costs. But what is the cause of the 1.2 TSI problem? In this case, the culprit is the timing chain. It ensures that the camshafts are driven by the crankshaft. The chains wear out prematurely as a result of inaccurate production and residues of production dirt. They lengthen impermissibly. This can be recognized by the fact that the chain drive rattles louder and louder, especially during a cold start. In the worst case, the chain can jump on one of the sprockets. The result is that your engine no longer runs due to the adjusted valve control times.

Are there problems with the 1.2 TSI that can be identified so that engine damage can be avoided? We recommend an oil change for this engine every 15,000 kilometers. It is also advisable to have the compression checked every 50,000 kilometers. 1.2 TSI problems can also occur due to frequent short trips. The engine is then not properly brought up to operating temperature and is therefore only moved when it is cold. This ensures that the engine oil does not reach its optimum operating temperature.

Any questions?

You are welcome to contact us on this subject if your engine also suffers from the 1.2 TSI problem. 

Find out about our offer for this engine.