We’ve recently performed a Carbon Clean on a VW Golf 2.0 16v Turbo EA888 using the only method we find really works, Walnut shells. The EA888 is a family of engines by Volkswagen. In this version from a Mk6 Golf GTI, the engine features Audi’s Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) direct injection. Cast Iron remains the choice material for the cylinder block and crankcase, due to its strength and acoustic damping properties. This version features a single row chain for drive, unlike the earlier belt driven version. This version doesn’t feature adjustable valve lift, like some of the later EA888 evo2, EA888 Gen3 and EA888 Gen3 Bz.
In short it’s a competent modern engine but suffers from Carbon Build up. In fact some of the later versions introduced a set of Port injectors as well as direct, which reduces build up. Carbon build up causes poor performance and increased fuel economy.
Let’s start the cleaning process – we hope you like the before and after pictures..
On the EA888 engine you also need to replace the injector seals which are Teflon and require a special tool to fit and then form to shape. This car also needed a new High Pressure fuel pump as the pump was causing over fuelling. The oil smelt very strongly of petrol . The car was misfiring, and entering limp home mode. The error code if you are interested was P0172 – too rich mixture. Always remember though, there could be multiple reasons for such an error. The skill is working out what is actually faulty.
We changed the oil for Quantum Fully Synthetic and used a quality MANN Oil Filter. All genuine VW Parts used for inlet manifold gasket, throttle body gasket and HP Fuel Pump.
We road tested the car and confirmed its vigour has returned. However, I feel I must make note of feel of the manual gear shift – VW – have you forgotten how good the MK1 was?
