
EA113 vs. EA888
EA113 vs. EA888 - engine differences and features
Engines and their technology are always evolving. With increased mileage, difficulties and teething troubles become apparent, which are then eliminated. Here we show you what these are for TFSI and TSI engines.
You'll also find out everything you need to know about the EA113 and EA888 engines: How do they differ and what are the most important features? We also present the revised versions here.
- 1. Differences between TFSI & TSI engines
- 2. What is the engine code of my engine, and where do I find it?
- 3. The high-pressure pump
- 4. The main features of the EA113 engine
- 5. The main features of the EA888 engine
- 6. Modification of the EA888 engine (from model year 05/2013)
- 8. Still have questions about the difference between TFSI and TSI engines?

Differences between TFSI & TSI engines
At first glance, there are two visual differences between a TFSI and a TSI engine. You will recognize them when you look at the engine: Usually, the engine cover must not be removed to do so.
1) Dipstick: On the engine type EA113 (TFSI), it is on the left side in front of the valve cover. In EA888 (TSI) engines, it is on the left side, next to the valve cover. (Red arrow)
2) Oil filter: In EA113 engines, it is on the right side next to the inlet manifold. In EA888 engines, it is to the left, next to the inlet manifold and is directly visible. (Blue arrow)
3) Oil filler: Differences exist only between the EA888 engines here. After the production date 05/2013, the oil filler is on the left side, next to the valve cover. It was previously located on the left side, on the valve cover. (Green arrow)
What is the engine code of my engine, and where do I find it?

The engine code usually consists of four letters. You always find it on the cover of the engine on the left side. In addition, it is in your service book. On the engine block, it is located to the right, next to the knocking sensor.
The high-pressure pump:


The high-pressure pump is the most important yet also a problematic mechanical component. In TFSI engines, the high-pressure pump is driven by the camshaft. In EA113 engines, the camshaft has a cam in this place. The connection between the high pressure pump and the camshaft is made via a pump tappet. Since this principle often led to difficulties, this has been changed: The camshaft has now four cams in this place; the connection is a rolling tappet. In addition, the camshaft was not sufficiently hardened in the first models, so the wear was accelerated.
You can find pictures of the damage and conversion kits here.
The main features of the EA113 engine:
- Belt-driven camshaft drive
- Variable timing of intake camshaft.
- High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) in connection with the pump tappet
Common problems of the EA113 TFSI engine:
- Excessive wear on the camshaft and the pump tappet. -> HERE is where you’ll find our conversion kit to the rolling tappet
- Formation of carbon deposits in the cylinder head and intake manifold. -> Our recommendation is a BEDI cleaning and at the same time, the installation of the PCV Fix in connection with a catch tank.
The main features of the EA888 engine:
- Chain-driven camshaft drive
- High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) in connection with a 4-sided camshaft pin and rolling tappet
- Low compression ratio (9.6:1)
- 3 oxygen sensors
- Relocated dipstick and oil filter
Common problems of the EA888 TFSI engine:
- Misfires ➜ There are several possible causes, including defective ignition coils and valve springs. Here you can find our reinforced valve springs, and here our set of ignition coils and spark plugs.
- Formation of carbon deposits in the cylinder head and intake manifold. -> Our recommendation is an BEDI cleaning and at the same time the installation of the PCV Fix in connection with a catch tank.
Modification of the EA888 engine (from model year 05/2013).
- Electrically controlled turbocharger
- More lightweight engine block in connection with aluminum bolts
- Smaller main bearings
- Reduced oil pressure
- Revised PCV system
- Relocated oil cover lid and dipstick
- Modified airbox
High-performance variants of the EA113 engine (e.g. VW Golf R)
The highest standard (OEM) performance level through improved turbo charging and engine components. (engine classification code: e.g. CRZA, CDL...)
- Forged pistons (9.8:1)
- Stronger con-rods, con-rod bearings, crankcase and main bearings
- Larger K04 turbocharger with 1.2 bar boost
- Larger intercooler and oil cooler
- Improved PCV system
- Larger injection nozzles
Still have questions about the difference between TFSI and TSI engines?
We would be delighted to help if you have questions! Just call us or write us an e-mail.