Shared across Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT and Skoda — generally good engines, with a couple of faults worth listening and looking for.
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Engine
- 1.0 / 1.2 / 1.4 TSI
Technician Overview
These smaller VAG petrol engines are used across Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT and Skoda models. They can be good engines, but there are a couple of faults we regularly look for when inspecting them.
Split EVAP Pipe
One fault we see is a split EVAP/breather pipe around the cambelt and inlet area. When the pipe splits it can create a strange popping, ticking or pulsing noise from the engine bay, which can sometimes sound more serious than it actually is.
Depending on how badly the pipe has failed, you may also notice:
- Rough or inconsistent idle
- Engine management light
- Air/vacuum leak faults
- Fuel vapour smell
- Unusual popping noise from around the inlet side of the engine
If you hear an odd repetitive popping noise, inspect the pipework properly before assuming there is an internal engine problem.
Oil Leak From Cambelt Cover
Another area worth checking is oil leaking from around the cambelt cover. Look closely around the cambelt side of the engine for fresh oil, staining or oil collecting lower down the engine.
This is important because oil contamination around the cambelt area isn't something we would ignore.
Technician Verdict
Listen carefully from cold and inspect the cambelt/inlet side of the engine. A popping noise can be nothing more than a split EVAP pipe, but any oil around the cambelt cover wants investigating properly before buying.
Alfie has over 11 years of experience in the motor trade and founded Alfa Prestige to give buyers the insider knowledge that was previously only available to professionals.
