VW Phaeton
EA896 with 176 kW for the Phaeton facelift. Piezo injectors and DPF. Timing chain on the gearbox side is a known weak point at high mileage.
Reliable diesel luxury
The CEXA is considered considerably more reliable than the BMK — giving the diesel Phaeton a new dimension: luxury touring without fear of workshop visits.
Engine Weaknesses 5
The EA896 V6 TDI uses four timing chains. Chain stretch leads to incorrect valve timing and threatens engine damage. Repair €1,500–€4,500; gearbox must be removed.
Symptoms: Metallic rattling or knocking on cold start, often quietens at operating temperature, fault codes for camshaft adjustment
The high-pressure pump can fail due to manufacturing residues. Consequential damage to all 6 injectors, fuel lines and the tank. Total damage typically €10,000–€14,500.
Symptoms: Sudden power loss on the motorway, rough running or engine stalls, start problems, diesel smell from leaking pump
The DPF on the 3.0 V6 TDI cannot tolerate frequent short trips. Fault codes P2002 and P242F are typical for the CEXA. Incomplete regeneration leads to ash accumulation and blockage.
Symptoms: DPF warning or glow plug light flashing, significant power loss, engine protection programme active, black smoke when accelerating
The 3.6 V6 CEXA (FSI) shows timing chain stretch which manifests in measuring blocks 208/209 as negative camshaft adjuster values. Longlife oil and extended service intervals promote premature wear.
Symptoms: Rattling after cold start, camshaft adjuster fault, MIL, in extreme cases chain skip
The V6 TDI has intake flaps in the intake manifold module whose actuators or levers can break. The module becomes leaky or sticks. Repair approx. €400–€750.
Symptoms: Fault code for intake flap, idle fluctuations, low-speed engine droning, slight power loss