Carrillo Connecting Rods | The Choice Connection

CP Carrillo rods in our range cover:

• Honda Civic Type R FK8 / FL5 (K20C1)
• Audi RS3 8V / 8Y and TT RS (2.5T EA855, engine codes DAZA/DNWZ/WQS depending on model year, confirm your specific code with your build sheet)

These are the two platforms we see come through most often for built engine work, and where CP Carrillo offers a direct application. If your engine code isn't listed here, get in touch before ordering.

• CP Carrillo forged H-beam connecting rod sets
• Rod bolt kits (where sold separately to the rod set)

The K20C1 in the Civic Type R is a strong engine from the factory, but once you're pushing well past standard power the factory rods become the weak link, especially under sustained high boost or on E85. CP Carrillo rods use aerospace-grade forgings and CARR bolts rated well beyond the factory hardware, giving the safety margin a serious build needs. Rod length and bolt spec are matched to the K20C1's factory bore centres, so there's no adapting a generic Honda rod to fit; it's a direct application part.

The Audi/VW EA855 2.5T in the RS3 and TT RS is a proven platform for big power on stock internals, right up until it isn't. Rod failure on this engine is a known risk once you're deep into aftermarket turbo territory, particularly with sustained high RPM use. CP Carrillo rods are a common upgrade for owners building towards the top end of what the block can handle. Confirm your exact engine code (for example DAZA or DNWZ) with your engine builder, as CP Carrillo lists the EA855 2.5T by code rather than as one generic application.

We stock and recommend CP Carrillo because they're a trusted name in built engines across drag, time attack and serious street builds, not just a Japanese and European car thing. The quality is consistent and the fitment is exactly what the engine expects, no clearance surprises.

Connecting rod installation is machine shop and engine builder territory, not a driveway job. Rods need to be matched to your specific piston and crank combination, and clearances checked properly during the build. If you're upgrading rods, it's almost always because you're already in the bottom end for other reasons (pistons, bearings, or a full rebuild), so factor that into your build plan.

Always confirm your exact engine code before ordering. The K20C1 in the FK8 and FL5 Civic Type R is consistent across those models, but always double check your build sheet if the engine has had prior work. Same goes for the EA855 2.5T across RS3 and TT RS variants, confirm the specific engine code with your engine builder before locking in a rod length or bolt spec.

• Forged pistons for a matched bottom end rebuild
• ARP fasteners for head studs and other high-load hardware
• Honda Civic Type R K20C1 parts and tuning
• Audi RS3 2.5T parts and tuning

Ask us if you can't find the specific brand collection you're after, we can point you in the right direction.

Will these fit my engine code?
CP Carrillo rods are engine-code specific. Confirm your exact code (K20C1 for Civic Type R, or the specific EA855 2.5T code for RS3/TT RS) before ordering. Get in touch if you're not sure.

Do I need new bolts if I already have a rod set?
CP Carrillo rods are typically sold as a complete set with CARR bolts included. Check the specific listing, as some applications sell bolts separately.

What's the realistic power ceiling with these rods?
It depends on the rest of the build: pistons, crank, tune, and fuel all play a part, not just the rods. Talk to your engine builder about the full combination before setting a power target.

Do you ship these Australia-wide?
Yes, we ship across Australia. Get in touch if you need help confirming compatibility before you order.

What's the warranty on CP Carrillo rods?
These are covered by manufacturer warranty against defects. Contact us for details specific to your order.