How to distinguish which generation the Volkswagen EA888 engine belongs to?

[DeIan]

It is not easy to distinguish between the first and second generations of the EA888 engine by appearance, as the main modification lies in the oil-gas separation device, with no significant changes elsewhere. However, there are substantial differences between the second and third generations, which can be identified by the engine's appearance. The methods to determine the EA888 generation are as follows: 1. Different oil filler cap positions: For the first and second generations, the oil filler cap is located in the middle on the left side, while for the third generation, it is positioned towards the rear on the left side. 2. Engine cover: The third-generation engine cover is entirely black, unlike the first and second generations. 3. Main improvements in the third generation: The cylinder block is 0.5mm thinner, making it lighter, and the water passages have also undergone some changes. The tensioner has been changed to a spiral type; the timing chain has been reduced from 5 plates to 4 plates, but it is much thicker than before; the oil-gas separation device has been changed to an internal type; the crankshaft has been modified from 8 counterweights to 4 counterweights.