Reconditioned Volkswagen Jetta Gearbox

Volkswagen Jetta Gearbox: from BKD to CAYC – which part for which engine code?

On the Jetta, it is the engine code stamped on the block that determines the compatible gearbox — not the engine capacity alone, and not the year alone. This guide covers eight codes: BKD, CBEA, CJAA, CFFB on the diesel side, and CAXA, CAVD, CAYC, CAYB on the petrol side. The same 1.6 TDI can take either a 5-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG depending on the exact code: CAYC and CAYB do not necessarily share the same transmission, and none of these codes can be substituted for another without prior verification.

Diesel: BKD, CBEA, CJAA, CFFB and their gearboxes

The BKD is an older-generation 2.0 TDI, paired exclusively with a 7-speed DSG in this guide. The codes CBEA and CJAA cover the 1.6 TDI in its most common variants: these are the references for which the range is most comprehensive, with both 5-speed manuals and 7-speed DSG units available. The CFFB completes the 1.6 TDI family; its gearbox is not interchangeable with that of a CBEA without checking the axle ratio and the original reference. Please note: the diesel 7-speed DSG is supplied without the mechatronic unit — this module must be dealt with separately.

Petrol: CAXA and CAVD on the 1.4 TSI

The 1.4 TSI takes a 7-speed DSG in both cases, but CAXA and CAVD correspond to different power outputs (122 hp and 160 hp respectively), which affect the gear ratio and therefore the exact gearbox reference. Mixing up these two codes when ordering is the most common mistake made with this engine. The petrol 7-speed DSG is also supplied without the mechatronic unit, with a new dual-clutch included. Two reconditioning options are available depending on the condition of your original unit: exchange or rebuild on your own unit.