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CUSBCUTB

1.4 TDI common rail EA288 (2014-2019) engine: faults and reliability

Volkswagen 1.4 TDI de 3 cilindros (bomba-inyector EA188 and common rail EA288) version

Buy

The sources consulted place the emissions scandal in EA189 engines; we have found no sign that this EA288 generation of the 1.4 TDI is singled out in the same way. The main things to watch are the timing belt, the turbo, the EGR and the particulate filter.[1][2]

Years
2014–2019
Power
75–90 hp
Faults that affect it
4
2 of high or critical severity
Cars that use it
4
in our database

4 sourcesHow we work

What changes in this version

A new common-rail generation within the modular EA288 family: it keeps the 1,422 cc capacity but with twin camshafts, four valves per cylinder and an aluminium block. It replaced entry-level versions such as the 75-90 hp 1.6 TDI in several of the group's models between 2014 and its withdrawal around 2018-2019.[2][3][4]

Engine codes of this version: CUSB, CUTB.

Faults of the CUSB engine

The documented engine faults that affect this version and its years, from most to least important.

  1. 1High severityFrequency: OccasionalTimingTiming belt and water pumpThe 1.4 TDI drives its timing with a toothed belt; on the unit-injector generation, that belt and its camshaft also drive the unit injector pumps. It is advisable to change the water pump along with the kit: if it seizes first, it can drag the belt with it, risking breakage and serious damage.Repair (garage): €400–€700
  2. 2High severityFrequency: OccasionalTurboFailing turbo: loss of power, whistling or smokeThe 1.4 TDI turbo can seize through carbon build-up or wear on the shaft over time. The engine loses power, whistles or gives off bluish smoke, and replacing it costs around €1,000 if there is no added damage to other parts.Repair (garage): €1,000
  3. 3Medium severityFrequency: CommonEmissions controlClogged particulate filter (DPF)On versions with a particulate filter - the last BlueMotion/Ecomotive models of the unit-injector generation and the whole EA288 generation - short urban trips stop the filter regenerating and it clogs with soot. The DPF warning light comes on and, if ignored, the car can lose power.Repair (garage): €500–€2,000
  4. 4Medium severityFrequency: CommonEmissions controlEGR valve clogged with carbonThe EGR valve builds up carbon, especially on short urban trips, until it seizes and stops sealing or opening precisely. The engine loses power and jerks; cleaning it costs considerably less than replacing it.Repair (garage): €100–€1,000

Cars fitted with the CUSB engine

Open each car to see all its faults with this engine and what to check before buying it.

Audi

Seat

Škoda

Volkswagen

Frequently asked questions

Is the CUSB engine reliable?

Our verdict is “Buy”. The sources consulted place the emissions scandal in EA189 engines; we have found no sign that this EA288 generation of the 1.4 TDI is singled out in the same way. The main things to watch are the timing belt, the turbo, the EGR and the particulate filter.[1][2]

What faults does the CUSB engine have?

The documented ones that affect this version, by importance: timing belt and water pump (high severity), failing turbo: loss of power, whistling or smoke (high severity), clogged particulate filter (DPF) (medium severity) and EGR valve clogged with carbon (medium severity).

Which cars use the CUSB engine?

Volkswagen Polo V (2014–2017), Seat Ibiza IV (2015–2017), Škoda Fabia III (2014–2019) and Audi A1 I (2014–2018).[2][3][4]

Are you buying a car with the CUSB engine?

We will put you in touch with a partner only if you authorise it in the form.

Do you have a car with this engine? Tell us which faults you have had and at how many kilometres. Report your fault.

Sources

Every fact on this page links to its source. If you find an error, let us know.

  1. Escándalo de emisiones contaminantes de vehículos VolkswagenWikipedia (español) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in Spanish
  2. VW EA288Wikipedia (alemán) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026 · in German
  3. Volkswagen Polo Mk5Wikipedia (inglés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026
  4. Audi A1Wikipedia (inglés) · Other source · consulted 27 September 2026