Volkswagen TSI vs TFSI: What is the Difference?. So what truly is the distinction in between the TSI vs TFSI? The short answer is, not a lot, but there are some minor differences. For beginners, TSI means “Turbo Stratified Injection” and “FSI” represents “Fuel Stratified Injection”. These apply to both Volkswagen and Audi direct fuel injection engines. Believe it or not, TFSI represents “Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection.”
This technology is not only featured in the 2.0’s, but you can also discover TSI and TFSI in 3.0, 4.0, 4.2. In this guide, we’ll be focusing on the 2.0 engines. The primary engine bases these engines are built off of are the EA113’s and EA888’s. In this guide, we’ll be reviewing the mechanical and technological distinctions in between the 2.0 l TSI vs 2.0 l TFSI.
Table of Contents
FSI Engines
The FSI engine was first presented in Volkswagen’s 2006 and older. The vehicles you might find the FSI engines in are MKV Jetta’s (A5), GLIs, GTIs, Tiguans, Passats, and CCs. The engine base for these engines is primarily EA113 and it puts down 200hp and 206 lb-ft. In the weaker EA113 engines it includes a BorgWarner K03 turbocharger, and in the more effective engines, it featured a KKK K04 turbo.
EA113 typical engine issues are:
- High motor oil consumption
- Engine knocking
- Problem speeding up at greater RPMs
- Loss of engine performance (Generally due to the N249 Valve or the PCV valve).
- Carbon buildup in intake valves.
TSI Engines.
The TSI engine superseded the turbo FSI with important technological and mechanical updates to address the downfalls of the FSI. It was first introduced in Volkswagen’s and Audi’s in 2008.5 and is still found in lorries today. The engine base for these engines is mainly EA888 and it puts down anywhere from 207-280lb-ft and 170-310hp. The EA888 has 3 various variations, which implies numerous engine modifications since it wasn’t as trusted as Volkswagen intended.
EA888 common engine problems are:
- High motor oil consumption.
- Stretched timing chain.
- Carbon accumulation in consumption valves.
- Thermostat real estate leak.
- Water pump failure.
TSI vs TFSI.
Okay, let’s get to the point. What is the actual distinction between the two? The modifications that were found in the superseded TSI, consisted of 9 various modifications to enhance the TFSI’s engine reliability.
TSI Engine Modifications.
- Timing chain, instead of a timing belt.
- An upgraded high-pressure fuel pump (hpfp) now located on the camshaft.
- An updated webcam follower with a roller, instead of the flat tappet.
- Compression ratio lowered to 9.6:1.
- Different downpipe.
- An included oxygen sensor, now 3.
- Updated PCV system.
- Relocated the oil filter and dipstick.
- Upgraded engine cover and airbox.
CCTA vs CBFA.
Another typical concern is what is the difference between the CCTA vs CBFA engine code. These engine codes were discovered in 2008.5– 2013.5 2.0 TSI’s. The CCTA adheres to 49-state emissions lorries, while the CBFA complies with California’s emission requirements. The main difference between the two is that the CBFA consists of:.
- An addition of a secondary air injection pump.
- Relocation of the 3rd oxygen sensor to the turbo turbine outlet.
- Slightly bigger intercooler core and radiator to burn cleaner emissions.
- An additional hose pipe on the airbox.
- As specified above, the CBFA was pretty much made to adhere to California’s extensive emissions policies.
Conclusion and Engine Reliability
In conclusion, the two engines are really similar, however the TSI superseded the Turbo FSI and might have had more typical issues. These engines are not the most reliable, however, we have actually seen both of these last longer than 200,000 miles if they are preserved correctly.
