Audi S1
Most powerful 1.4 TSI EA111 variant with 136 kW. Fitted in A1 S-Line and Sportback. Twin-charging (supercharger + turbo) delivers good throttle response but adds complexity.
A1 with AWD and more power — nice extra, not a sports car
More grip than the regular A1, more torque off the line. But no CWZA — the difference to a normal A1 is smaller than expected in daily driving. Anyone chasing fun needs the 231 hp manual.
Engine Weaknesses 8
The CTHG Twincharger (185 hp) is known for severe piston damage. Broken pistons from thermal overload are documented. Repair costs up to €6,500. Audi/VW discontinued the engine.
Symptoms: Massive oil consumption (litres per 1,000 km), blue smoke from exhaust, engine check light, worst case engine failure
Like all EA111 variants, the CTHG suffers from early timing chain wear due to manufacturing defects in the chain links. Cracks and chain jumps can occur as early as 50,000 km.
Symptoms: Rattling on cold start, engine check light, loud clattering from the timing chain area
The electromagnetic supercharger clutch in the Twincharger system wears earlier than expected on the CTHG. Replacement is expensive and was not acknowledged by Audi/VW as a production defect.
Symptoms: Clicking from the supercharger area, weaker low-rpm performance, increased fuel consumption
The twincharger generates very high thermal loads. Failed thermostats and water pumps can cause overheating. Combined with piston damage, total engine failure quickly follows.
Symptoms: Coolant temperature rises quickly, overheating warning, increased coolant consumption
The CTHG 1.4 TSI with ACT stumbles when switching between 2- and 4-cylinder mode. Several software updates from VW/Audi have reduced but not fully resolved the issue.
Symptoms: Stumbling on acceleration, vibrations at partial load
CTHG with EA211-typical oil consumption from coking piston rings, especially on short trips and early models up to 2015. 0.5 litre/1,000 km possible.
Symptoms: Oil level drops, blue smoke on cold start
EA211-typical camshaft adjuster defect with oil leak. Recall campaign for 2013–2015 models carried out. Seal ring and adjuster unit are replaced.
Symptoms: Oil spots, engine check light, camshaft fault
Direct injection on the CTHG leads to carbon deposits on intake valves. Regular cleaning by walnut blasting recommended.
Symptoms: Stumbling on cold start, rough idle
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
The 7-speed S-Tronic (DQ200) tends to judder on pull-away and produce rough gear changes in city driving. The cause is clutch wear from frequent creeping and manoeuvring.
From around the seventh year of use, coil springs can snap from material fatigue and corrosion. The front axle is most commonly affected. A broken spring is an immediate safety hazard.
Early A1 8X models (2010–2013) showed increased breakdown rates from faulty ignition cables. Misfires and power loss are the result.
Electric window regulators fail regularly. The cause is usually a worn motor, snapped cable, or faulty control unit. Driver and passenger doors are most commonly affected.
The air conditioning loses refrigerant over the years through leaking seals and hoses. On older cars from around 8 years, the AC compressor and condenser become prone to wear.