Volkswagen / Audi 2.0 TSI and TFSI (familia EA888)Lubrication
PCV valve (crankcase ventilation) failure on the 2.0 TSI / TFSI
Why this rating?
Symptoms
- Unstable idle or the engine shaking when stationary, the most common symptom of this fault.[1]Vibrations: other faults that cause it · Monitor
- The engine fault warning light may come on because of an incorrect air-fuel mixture.[3]Engine warning light: other faults that cause it · Garage soon
- If the valve sticks closed, crankcase pressure rises and can force oil out through seals and gaskets.[3]Oil leak: other faults that cause it · Monitor
Why it happens
The valve regulates the exit of gases and oil vapours from the crankcase into the intake manifold; over time it can stick, crack or become blocked with oil residue.[1][2]
If it is not repaired: As well as a rough idle, a fault left for a long time can foul the air filter and intake manifold with oil, and cause the car to fail the MOT (ITV in Spain) because of excess emissions.[3]
Affected cars and years
It can occur in any generation of this engine, since they all have a positive crankcase ventilation system.[1]
| Version | Years | Codes |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0 TSI/TFSI Gen 1, without Valvelift (2008-2012, 170-220 hp) | 2008–2012 | CAWACCZCCCZDCCTACBFACAWBCGMACPSACCZB |
| 2.0 TSI/TFSI Gen 2/3, with Valvelift and direct injection only (2012-2016, 180-230 hp) | 2012–2016 | CAEACDNBCAEBCDNCCESACHHBCULCCNCD |
| 2.0 TSI/TFSI Gen 3B / evo, with added indirect injection (2016 onwards, 190-320 hp) | since 2016 | CHHADKFADLBACJXECJXACJXB |
Models fitted with the affected versions
Audi
- Audi A3 II2008–2012
- Audi A3 III2012–2020
- Audi A3 IVsince 2020
- Audi A4 B82008–2015
- Audi A4 B9since 2015
- Audi A5 I2008–2017
- Audi Q3 I2011–2018
- Audi Q3 IIsince 2018
- Audi Q5 I2008–2017
- Audi Q5 II2017–2024
- Audi TT II2008–2014
- Audi TT III2014–2023
Cupra
- Cupra Ateca2018–2020
- Cupra Formentorsince 2020
- Cupra Leónsince 2020
Porsche
- Porsche Macan I2017–2024
Seat
- Seat León II2009–2012
- Seat León III2012–2020
- Seat Atecasince 2016
Škoda
- Škoda Octavia III2013–2020
- Škoda Octavia IVsince 2020
- Škoda Superb II2008–2015
- Škoda Superb III2015–2023
- Škoda Kodiaq I2016–2024
- Škoda Superb IVsince 2024
- Škoda Kodiaq IIsince 2024
Volkswagen
- Volkswagen Golf VI2008–2012
- Volkswagen Golf VII2012–2020
- Volkswagen Golf VIIIsince 2019
- Volkswagen Passat B62008–2010
- Volkswagen Passat B72010–2014
- Volkswagen Passat B82014–2023
- Volkswagen Tiguan I2008–2016
- Volkswagen Tiguan II2016–2024
- Volkswagen T-Rocsince 2017
- Volkswagen Arteon2017–2023
- Volkswagen Sharan II2010–2018
- Volkswagen Tiguan IIIsince 2024
- Volkswagen Multivan T7since 2021
- Volkswagen Transporter T62015–2019
- Volkswagen Beetle II2011–2014
- Volkswagen Passat B9since 2024
How much it costs to repair
Includes: PCV valve or oil separator assembly, with labour[4]
The price varies depending on whether it is sold separately or integrated into the complete, more expensive rocker cover.
Prices in Spain, including VAT. A workshop hour costs on average €38–66 at independent garages and €77–134 at dealerships in Spain, depending on the region and the brand. How we calculate costs
How to check for it before buying a used car
- Listen to the idle with the engine warm: if it vibrates or is unstable for no apparent reason, ask whether the PCV valve has been checked.
- Look at the condition of the intake pipe after the air filter: if it has oil built up inside, it may be a sign of this fault.
Parts needed
The part or kit that fixes this fault, according to the sources.
- Buy part at Autodoc (affiliate link, opens in a new tab)
PCV valve or oil separator
Replacement when it sticks, cracks or stops regulating crankcase pressure properly.
Affiliate links to Autodoc: if you buy, MotorFiable may receive a commission at no cost to you. Check compatibility using the registration number or the VIN before ordering. More information
How to prevent it
- A specialist garage recommends checking or replacing it preventively every two or three oil changes.[3]
Recalls, campaigns and claims
As of 26 September 2026, we have no record of recalls, campaigns or extended manufacturer warranties for this fault. Check with an official dealer using the chassis (VIN) number: they will tell you whether the car has any outstanding campaign.
What owners say
Frequently asked questions
Can you keep driving with a faulty PCV valve?
In the short term yes, but it should be checked soon: besides the annoyance of a rough idle, it can end up causing oil leaks or making the car fail the MOT (ITV in Spain).[3]
How much does it cost to check or replace the PCV valve?
The part is usually cheap; the final cost depends mainly on whether it is sold separately or integrated into the complete rocker cover, which is more expensive.[4]
Can the PCV valve be cleaned instead of replaced?
You can try cleaning it with a suitable product if it is merely dirty, but if it is cracked or has lost its elasticity it has to be replaced; a garage can check its condition with a simple vacuum test.[1]
What can you do now?
We will put you in touch with a partner only if you authorise it in the form.
Other 2.0 TSI / TFSI faults
- High severityFrequency: CommonLubricationHigh oil consumptionIt is the most repeated complaint on first-batch EA888s (2008-2012) and still appears, to a lesser extent, in later generations. The engine needs topping up between services with no visible leak or obvious smoke at first.Repair (garage): €1,500–€4,000
- Critical severityFrequency: OccasionalTimingTiming chain and tensioner wearOver the years, the chain can stretch and the hydraulic tensioner can stop keeping it taut, especially on first-batch units (2008-2012). If the chain jumps a tooth, it can slam the valves into the pistons.
- Medium severityFrequency: Very frequentIntakeCarbon build-up on the intake valvesBecause the fuel is injected directly into the cylinder, no petrol washes over the intake valves, so oil residue and soot build up and, over the years, restrict airflow and affect engine response.
- Medium severityFrequency: CommonCoolingThermostat housing leak and water pump failureSince Volkswagen integrated the water pump impeller into the thermostat housing, this plastic part leaks coolant over time; on the oldest units, with a separate belt-driven pump, failures of the pump itself are also documented.
Have you had this fault? Your case helps other owners know when it appears and how much it costs. Report your fault in 2 minutes.
Sources
Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.
- ¿Tu coche consume aceite? La válvula PCV podría ser la culpable (y cómo saberlo)Autopista.es · Motoring press · published 20 May 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
- Decantador en el coche o separador de aceite y válvula PCV, ¿qué son y cómo funcionan?Diariomotor · Motoring press · published 6 September 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
- ¿Qué es y cómo funciona la válvula PCV?Infotaller · Motoring press · published 21 December 2017 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish
- Tu coche quema aceite: 6 señales de alarma y la solución definitiva para salvar tu motorAutopista.es · Motoring press · published 19 June 2026 · consulted 26 September 2026 · in Spanish