VW Sharan 2(7N)
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The Sharan II is VW's premium family van — seven seats, electric sliding doors, and Golf Plus dimensions scaled up. Built from 2010 to 2022 (identical to the SEAT Alhambra), with no true successor in VW's lineup. For maximum family space with VW quality, the Sharan is hard to beat.
Engine recommendation is clear: The 2.0 TDI with 150 hp (EA288, from 2015) is the best choice — Euro 6, no Dieselgate, modern engine. The CFGB (2.0 TDI, 170 hp) offers more torque, but the EGR cooler is the pricier risk on the stronger engine — hairline cracks and gradual coolant loss. The CFFE (2.0 TDI, 115 hp) is the economy option, but underpowered for the heavy Sharan. Stay away from the CCZA (2.0 TSI, 200 hp) — timing chain catastrophe, massive oil consumption, expensive to maintain.
The defining theme is the electric sliding doors — two distinct failure modes: drive motor failure (door stops responding) and cable drive breakage (door jams completely). Both cost $550–$1,000 at the shop. Add the control arm bushings with 10x elevated inspection defect rates at just 4 years old — VW undersized the dimensions. Underbody rust on sills and tailgate is common on pre-2013 models (before improved protection).
Test drive: Operate both sliding doors electrically multiple times — listen for noises and delays. Test tailgate lock (plastic gear breaks). Check panoramic roof for water stains on headliner. Control arms: feel for play and noises when turning. Visual underbody inspection.
Market 2026: The Sharan is a discontinued model with no successor — that pushes used prices down. Good examples from $10,000, newer facelift models $15,000–$22,000.
Insider pick: A 2.0 TDI 150 hp (EA288, from 2015) with manual gearbox and working sliding doors is the most solid choice.
177 PS
Sharan · Diesel
Strongest Sharan diesel
Fun to Drive!200 PS
2.0L TFSI Benzin
5 weaknesses
Stay Away!Generations
Engine Overview
The VW Sharan 2 is available with 7 engine variants — from 115 to 220 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
EA189 2.0 TDI CR with 177 hp — the strong diesel variant in this mid-size class. Dieselgate recall affected, after the software update frequent EGR issues and subjectively perceived power loss. Turbo more stressed under high sustained load and a contaminated EGR system. DPF clogs on short trips like all EA189s. Despite the controversy a strong and fundamentally durable engine — with a highway profile and regular maintenance easily past 250,000 km.
- !! Timing belt failure and water pump failure from 210,000 km
The CFGC TDI has a timing belt interval of 210,000 km, but the water pump frequently fails from 95,000 km. If the timing belt breaks, major engine damage results. Simultaneous replacement is mandatory.
Symptoms: No warning on belt failure; water pump failure: temperature rise, coolant loss, engine overheating - !! DSG mechatronics failure at high mileage from 150,000 km
The DSG gearbox in the Sharan 7N shows mechatronics problems at higher mileages. Fault code P0776 (short circuit in pressure control valve) is typical. Mechatronics repair approx. €450 net; full replacement up to €5,000.
Symptoms: Gearbox does not shift or bangs up at 4,500–5,000 rpm, warning lights, sporadic misbehaviour - !! EGR cooler leaking — coolant loss from 100,000 km
The EGR cooler on the 2.0 TDI CFGC develops leaks from cracks. Coolant enters the exhaust system; engine temperature rises sharply.
Symptoms: Coolant temperature spikes to 130°C, soapy bubbles in coolant expansion tank, coolant loss without external leak
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The CFGB delivers 170 hp from the EA189 block — strong enough for a large van even with seven passengers. Dieselgate-affected like all EA189s, but the EGR cooler is the pricier risk on the 170 hp version: hairline cracks allow coolant into the exhaust tract — gradual loss without visible leaks, worst case engine damage. EGR valve clogs more often after the software update. Turbo boost control valve can stick (power loss, limp mode). Piezo injectors coke up at high mileage. With consistent maintenance and a highway driving profile, still the better TDI choice over the 115 hp variant.
- !! EGR cooler crack and coolant ingress from 130,000 km
The EGR cooler can develop cracks through which coolant enters the exhaust tract. Gradual coolant loss and in extreme cases cylinder head damage. Worsened after software update.
Symptoms: White smoke from exhaust, falling coolant level, sweet smell in exhaust area. - !! Recall diesel scandal (EA189)
The CFGB 125kW is also affected by the EA189 diesel scandal. Software update mandatory — without update vehicle deregistration possible.
- !! Turbocharger boost pressure control valve failed from 150,000 km
The 2.0 TDI EA189 tends to defects in the boost pressure control valve, recognisable by fault codes P2563/P2564. At higher mileage VTG wear also occurs.
Symptoms: Power loss, MIL, fault codes P2563/P2564, engine protection mode.
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The CFFE is the lower-powered EA189 diesel with 115 hp — frugal and intended as the base engine for heavy vans. Burdened by the diesel scandal: after the mandatory software update, the EGR valve works harder and clogs more frequently (repair up to €1,500). DPF regeneration needs regular highway driving — city-only use clogs the filter. Monitor the water pump from 100,000 km. Piezo injectors can coke up at high mileage. Overall a good-natured engine that demands a consistent highway driving profile and punctual maintenance.
- !! Recall diesel scandal (EA189)
All EA189 engines are affected by the VW emissions scandal. Software update mandatory — without update deregistration is threatened. Update itself can cause secondary problems.
- !! EGR valve carbon build-up after software update from 120,000 km
After the mandatory update the EGR valve soots up faster than before. Soot particles settle on the valve and cause sluggish opening and closing through to warning light activation.
Symptoms: Hesitation in part-load range, rough idle, increased consumption, fault codes P0401, engine protection mode. - !! DPF blockage from short-trip use from 150,000 km
Short-trip use and frequent cold starts prevent complete DPF regeneration. Filter blocks; increased back pressure causes limp mode.
Symptoms: Message 'particulate filter loaded', power loss, increased consumption, limp mode.
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The CUVA is the weaker EA288 2.0 TDI with 115 hp — the base diesel variant in this retro model. Same EA288 platform as the CUUB but less thermally stressed. EGR valve cokes up on short trips, DPF regeneration needs highway driving. Wet timing belt every 150,000 km — don't overextend. Monitor water pump from 100,000 km. Actually unsuitable as a pure city car (DPF!), better for commuters with highway portions.
- !! Regulated Water Pump Jams from 60,000 km
The control ring of the regulated water pump can jam mechanically. The engine stays in the small coolant circuit and overheats. Known under TPI 2041955, affects vehicles up to September 2014.
Symptoms: Coolant temperature shoots above 100 °C, warning light, coolant hoses to radiator stay cold. - !! EGR Valve and EGR Cooler Failed from 120,000 km
The EA288 EGR valve sticks shut with soot deposits. Cracks in the EGR cooler allow coolant into the exhaust path, which can cause overheating.
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, fault codes P0401, coolant loss without external leak, white smoke. - !! DPF Blockage with Short-Trip Driving from 130,000 km
Frequent short trips prevent complete DPF regeneration. From around 60g load, the ECU prohibits active regeneration. Filter must be cleaned or replaced.
Symptoms: Message 'particulate filter loaded', power reduction, limp mode, frequent regeneration cycles.
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
EA288 diesel with 2.0L and 110 kW — the base diesel for the family van. Economical (real-world 6-7 liters), torquey enough for daily use, and technically mature. All EA288 topics apply: EGR valve, DPF with short trips, AdBlue system. In van duty, long-haul qualities matter most: the CUVC performs well on commuter profiles and holiday drives. Timing chain holds, injectors are long-lived. When buying used: check DPF condition and AdBlue system.
- !! EGR Cooler Crack with Coolant Loss from 130,000 km
Cracks in the EA288 110kW EGR cooler allow coolant into the exhaust path. Gradually falling coolant level, if untreated, can escalate to cylinder head damage.
Symptoms: White smoke on cold start, sweet exhaust smell, falling coolant level without external leak. - !! Regulated Water Pump Control Ring Jams from 70,000 km
The control ring of the regulated water pump can jam. Engine stays in the small coolant circuit and overheats. Particularly known on early EA288 build years up to September 2014.
Symptoms: Rapid coolant temperature rise, warning light, coolant hoses to radiator stay cold. - !! Wet-running oil pump belt — engine killer from 210,000 km
Like all EA288, the CUVC uses a wet-running belt for oil pump drive. On rupture: immediate catastrophic damage.
Symptoms: No warning. Rubber particles in oil at service only indicator
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
EA288 diesel with 2.0L and 135 kW — one of the stronger four-cylinder diesels in the VW group. Same base as the CXHA but with larger turbo and more boost. In sportier models an unusually powerful diesel drivetrain; in a van a relaxed family diesel. Timing chain, AdBlue SCR, DPF — the usual modern diesel equipment. EGR valve and DPF remain perennial topics. The CUWA is a mature, powerful diesel with few known problems under proper maintenance.
- !! Water Pump Failure with Overheating Risk from 90,000 km
Water pump failures are documented on the EA288 (TPI 2041955). Overheating to 130 °C possible, leading to cylinder head and gasket damage.
Symptoms: Coolant temperature warning, rapid temperature rise, coolant level drops. - !! Low Oil Pressure at Idle — Bearing Damage Possible from 100,000 km
The 2.0 TSI CUWA (EA888 Gen3) has the same weakness as other Gen3 variants: the stock oil pump delivers insufficient pressure at operating temperature idle for the camshaft adjusters.
Symptoms: Rattling at idle, chain tensioner noise, occasional oil pressure warning at standstill - !! Wet-running oil pump belt — silent engine killer from 210,000 km
The EA288 uses an oil-bathed belt to drive the oil pump. Oil attacks the rubber. On rupture: instant engine damage.
Symptoms: No warning signs. Rubber particles in oil at service as only indicator
+ 3 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
EA288 with 2.0L and 130 kW — the stronger diesel in the family van facelift. 20 kW more than the CUVC makes a difference at full load and on gradients. Same base, larger turbo, more low-end torque. All EA288 strengths and weaknesses the DLUB shares with its siblings. In the van the most recommendable engine: enough power for every situation, economical enough for long distances, and the most proven diesel architecture in the VW group.
- !! Wet-running timing belt and water pump from 140,000 km
The EA288 Evo uses a timing belt running in an oil bath. If it is not replaced on schedule every 120,000–150,000 km, it can snap — with total engine destruction. Always replace the water pump at the same time.
Symptoms: No warning when belt snaps — sudden engine stoppage. Beforehand: occasional coolant loss through the water pump. - !! EGR system malfunction (EA288 Evo) from 130,000 km
The EA288 Evo uses a two-stage EGR system with high-pressure and low-pressure EGR. Soot deposits accumulate preferentially in the low-pressure path and disturb the mixture ratio.
Symptoms: P0401 fault codes, rough idle, partial-load hesitation, coolant loss with EGR cooler crack. - !! DPF regeneration and SCR Twindosing from 150,000 km
The EA288 Evo uses two SCR catalysts (Twindosing). In short-trip use, low exhaust temperatures prevent regeneration. Clogging and limp mode can result.
Symptoms: Frequent regeneration cycles, increased fuel consumption, particulate filter warning, limp mode.
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
EA189 2.0 TDI CR with 140 hp — the common rail variant of the 2.0 TDI in this compact class. Dieselgate recall affected. Same weaknesses as the CBAB but with slightly less power and therefore less thermal stress. EGR valve cokes, especially after the Dieselgate software update. DPF problematic on short trips. Dual-mass flywheel wears with a city driving profile. Turbo fundamentally durable. For highway drivers a proven and frugal powertrain.
- !! EA189 Dieselgate recall CFFB 103 kW
The CFFB (103 kW) as an EA189 variant is mandatorily subject to recall. Mandatory software update increases EGR activation, leading to increased EGR loading in heavier vehicles and short-trip use.
Symptoms: Increased NOx emissions, after update: EGR fault codes, black smoke, increased fuel consumption - !! EGR cooler leaking (EA189) from 120,000 km
The CFFB (EA189) shows known problems with the EGR cooler which can direct coolant into the intake tract. Fault code P2425 (EGR cooling valve). This can lead to engine damage.
Symptoms: Sporadic white smoke, coolant loss without visible escape, fault code P2425, rough running - !! Defective clutch pressure plate from 80,000 km
Specifically for the CFFB with 140hp individual cases of defective clutch pressure plates have been documented. Workshop costs for clutch replacement on the Q3 are approx. €2,000.
Symptoms: Clutch slip, juddering on pull-away, grinding noise, clutch engages unevenly or late
+ 4 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The CAVA is a 1.4 TSI from the EA111 family — with supercharger and turbo (twincharger) for 150 hp from 1.4 liters. The timing chain dominates the conversation: manufacturing tolerance issues at the chain supplier caused accelerated stretching from 60,000–70,000 km, VW offered extensive warranty coverage. Pre-2012 models especially affected. The camshaft adjuster mounting bolt can work loose — oil loss and chain noise follow. Oil consumption from piston rings possible from 80,000 km, but less dramatic than the 2.0 TSI. The DQ200 dual-clutch gearbox demands complete service history.
- !! Timing chain of the EA111 family stretches from 60,000 km
The CAVA 1.4 TSI belongs to the EA111 family, which is known throughout the group for timing chain problems. The chain can stretch and skip a tooth.
Symptoms: Rattling on cold start, clatter on load changes, in severe cases abrupt engine shutdown - !! Camshaft adjuster bolt loosens — oil loss from 90,000 km
The camshaft adjuster bolt can work loose and migrate towards the housing. Defective sealing elements allow oil to escape; severe oil loss possible.
Symptoms: Oil under the vehicle, oil pressure warning illuminated, rough engine, rattling on cold start - !! DSG DQ200 clutch problems from 60,000 km
The 7-speed DSG DQ200 combined with the 1.4 TSI shows well-known clutch problems: juddering on pull-away, burnt clutch plates and mechatronic failures.
Symptoms: Juddering and jerking on pull-away, shifting problems, gearbox warning
+ 1 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
EA211 with cylinder deactivation (ACT). Saves fuel under partial load; ACT switching can judder at high mileage. Timing belt change every 210,000 km. Follow oil change intervals consistently. Caution with unknown maintenance history — the engine rewards consistent care with longevity. Have fault memory read before purchase.
- !! Timing Belt — Critical Change Interval from 160,000 km
The CZDA uses a timing belt rather than a chain. VW recommends replacement every 60,000 km. A snapped belt inevitably causes valve damage — engine damage is then unavoidable.
Symptoms: No warning — breakage occurs without notice. Preventive: squealing or flapping of the belt on cold start. - !! Camshaft Adjuster: Screws Come Loose from 80,000 km
On vehicles from 12/2013–03/2015, screws on the camshaft adjuster can loosen and collide with the cylinder head, causing timing belt failure and engine damage. VW recall 15H2 for affected models.
Symptoms: Metallic noise from the valvetrain, oil loss in the timing belt area, with failure abrupt engine stall - !! ACT cylinder deactivation actuator failure from 65,000 km
The camshaft lobe actuator for cylinder deactivation can break. Results in EPC light, jerking and compression loss in cylinder 2. Expensive repair requiring cylinder head removal.
Symptoms: EPC warning light, engine jerking at part throttle, rough idle, power loss, cylinder 2 misfires
+ 6 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The CCZA is a first-generation EA888 with 200 hp — strong on paper, costly in practice. The timing chain is the biggest weakness: the tensioner can fail without warning and cause engine destruction (€3,000–6,500). From 2011/2012 the tensioner was reinforced at the factory — check the build date. Oil consumption from undersized piston ring segments appears from 40,000–70,000 km and worsens progressively. Intake valve carbon buildup is inherent to the system (direct injection without valve washing). Anyone buying a CCZA should get documented chain condition and oil consumption history before purchase.
- !! Timing chain stretched — tensioner failed from 80,000 km
The hydraulic chain tensioner builds insufficient oil pressure on cold start; the timing chain stretches and skips teeth. Engine numbers up to CCZ_224768 particularly affected. In worst case piston damage.
Symptoms: Rattling or clattering on cold start that disappears after warm-up. With advanced wear: engine does not start. - !! Increased oil consumption — piston rings coked up from 70,000 km
Oil control rings only 1.5 mm tall with tiny 0.3 mm drain-back holes clog with oil carbon. Up to 3 litres oil consumption per 1,000 km possible. EA888 Gen1 particularly affected.
Symptoms: Blue smoke on acceleration, falling oil level without visible leak, oil spots in intake tract. - !! Intake valves coked up — direct injection from 80,000 km
As a direct injection engine the CCZA has no fuel washing of the intake valves. Oil mist from the crankcase ventilation settles and carbonises. From approx. 80,000 km noticeable power loss is possible.
Symptoms: Hesitation at idle and low revs, rough running, slight power loss, increased fuel consumption.
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
EA888 with 2.0L and 162 kW in the family van facelift — a powerful four-cylinder turbo. Front timing chain, Gen3 technology with dual injection. In the heavy van, the engine frequently needs to deliver torque — oil changes every 15,000 km or shorter with regular towing. Water pump and thermostat housing are the usual EA888 wear items. The DEDA is a competent drivetrain for the van: enough power for full load plus trailer, refined cruising.
- !! Low Oil Pressure from Weak Oil Pump from 80,000 km
The variable oil pump on the EA888 Gen3 delivers insufficient pressure at idle (approx. 1.8 bar instead of the recommended 3 bar). Premature wear of camshaft bearings and adjusters results.
Symptoms: Rattling noises from the camshaft adjuster area on cold start, oil pressure warning light in extreme cases. - !! Timing Chain Wear EA888 Gen3 from 90,000 km
Despite improvements, the EA888 Gen3 timing chain shows measurable elongation from 80,000–90,000 km. If replacement is neglected, it can jump and cause engine damage.
Symptoms: Rattle after cold start from the timing chain area, camshaft signal fault code, rough idle. - !! Water Pump Rarely Lasts Beyond 120,000 km from 110,000 km
The plastic water pump on the EA888 Gen3 should be treated as a wear item. It typically starts leaking between 100,000 and 120,000 km.
Symptoms: Gradual coolant loss, coolant smell in engine bay, visible leak at the pump housing.
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Control arm bushings worn — undersized specification The Sharan 7N control arm bushings wear unusually early, sometimes after just 40,000–55,000 km. The cause is undersized specification for the vehicle weight. Reinforced aftermarket parts (Meyle HD) recommended as a remedy. Symptoms: Knocking from the suspension, imprecise steering, wear flagged at MOT from 55,000 km | Medium |
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Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 83 weaknesses have been documented for the VW Sharan 2 (2010–2022) — 66 engine-related and 17 vehicle-related. One problem engine: CCZA (2.0L TFSI). Typical issues affect Suspension, Rust, Body, HVAC.
Sharan (CFFB, 2010–2015) — Be Careful: EA189 Dieselgate recall CFFB 103 kW, EGR cooler leaking (EA189), Defective clutch pressure plate. Power: 136–140 PS.
Sharan (CFGC, 2010–2022) — Be Careful: Timing belt failure and water pump failure, DSG mechatronics failure at high mileage, EGR cooler leaking — coolant loss. Power: 170–184 PS.
Sharan (CFGB, 2010–2012) — Be Careful: EGR cooler crack and coolant ingress, Recall diesel scandal (EA189), Turbocharger boost pressure control valve failed. Power: 170 PS.
Sharan (CFFE, 2011–2015) — Be Careful: Recall diesel scandal (EA189), EGR valve carbon build-up after software update, DPF blockage from short-trip use. Power: 116 PS.
Sharan (CUVA, 2015–2017) — Be Careful: Regulated Water Pump Jams, EGR Valve and EGR Cooler Failed, DPF Blockage with Short-Trip Driving. Power: 116 PS.
Sharan (CUVC, 2015–2022) — Be Careful: EGR Cooler Crack with Coolant Loss, Regulated Water Pump Control Ring Jams, Wet-running oil pump belt — engine killer. Power: 150 PS.
Sharan (CUWA, 2018–2022) — Be Careful: Water Pump Failure with Overheating Risk, Low Oil Pressure at Idle — Bearing Damage Possible, Wet-running oil pump belt — silent engine killer. Power: 177–184 PS.
Sharan (DLUB, 2018–2022) — Be Careful: Wet-running timing belt and water pump, EGR system malfunction (EA288 Evo), DPF regeneration and SCR Twindosing. Power: 177–184 PS.
Sharan (CAVA, 2010–2015) — Be Careful: Timing chain of the EA111 family stretches, Camshaft adjuster bolt loosens — oil loss, DSG DQ200 clutch problems. Power: 150 PS.
Sharan (CCZA, 2010–2015) — Stay Away!: Timing chain stretched — tensioner failed, Increased oil consumption — piston rings coked up, Intake valves coked up — direct injection. Power: 200 PS.
Sharan (CZDA, 2015–2022) — Be Careful: Timing Belt — Critical Change Interval, Camshaft Adjuster: Screws Come Loose, ACT cylinder deactivation actuator failure. Power: 150 PS.
Sharan (DEDA, 2015–2022) — Be Careful: Low Oil Pressure from Weak Oil Pump, Timing Chain Wear EA888 Gen3, Water Pump Rarely Lasts Beyond 120,000 km. Power: 220 PS.
What to watch out for with the VW Sharan? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the VW Sharan 2 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used VW Sharan 2? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which VW Sharan 2 engine is the most fun? +
Is the VW Sharan 2 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the VW Sharan 2? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee