The most recent teardown video from the I Do Automobiles YouTube channel opens with a window to the soul of this Dieselgate-era Volkswagen engine. That is by no means factor, however it’s just the start of absolutely the carnage inside this 2.0-liter TDI diesel. And with every little thing torn aside, it is clear what killed the engine. Here is a touch: diesels do not like excessive rpm.

This energy plant was once a CKRA four-cylinder diesel used within the Passat from 2012 by means of 2014. When new, this engine developed a nonchalant 140 horsepower however cranked out 236 pound-feet of torque. It wasn’t constructed for pace, however linked to an out there six-speed handbook transmission, the mid-size sedan had some enjoyable potential. You most likely see the place that is going.

Earlier than the teardown begins, we are able to already see a small gap within the block. A better look reveals a second gap and bits of steel protruding. Clearly one thing unhealthy occurred inside. It is so unhealthy that the crankshaft is totally locked up. However because the elements come off, we’re lulled right into a false sense of safety. As an alternative of discovering damaged items or the notorious “forbidden glitter” indicative of spun bearings, every little thing seems to be wholesome. The pinnacle and camshafts look actually good, suggesting this engine was well-maintained. The timing system, usually a offender in engine maladies, is absolutely intact.

Then the oil pan comes off, and we lastly see why the crank does not flip. The stays of the quantity three piston and rod are strewn all through the decrease finish. The rod snapped within the center, sending steel all over the place and almost splitting the block in half. Deep gouges within the crankshaft additionally render it ineffective. However then we discover one thing. It seems different rods are bent, too.

What may trigger all this? There have been no indicators of extreme warmth or oil hunger. Hydrolocking may trigger rods to bend and break, however there was little proof of water or different fluids contained in the engine. We’re left with the dreaded cash shift—the time period generally used when a driver inadvertently downshifts as an alternative of upshifting. And it often occurs throughout spirited driving.

Maybe the driving force went into first as an alternative of third, or second as an alternative of fourth. In both case, it will trigger the engine to significantly over rev, and that would positively result in the injury seen right here. As all the time, the time period cash shift actually lifts as much as its title.