The Audi AKE is a 2,393 cc, inline-five petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2000. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), delivering refined performance and smooth power delivery in mid-size and executive Audi models. In standard tune, it produced 110 kW (150 PS) at 5,800 rpm and 225 Nm of torque at 3,500 rpm.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A6 (C4) and Audi A4 (B5) Avant models, including the 2.4 V6 variants, the AKE engine was engineered for balanced drivability and refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, allowing the engine to meet Euro 2 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the hydraulic valve tappets (lifter tick), which can lead to audible tapping noises at idle. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Bulletin 010903, is typically caused by oil degradation or extended service intervals. Regular oil changes using specified VW 502 00 grade oil are critical to prevent this condition.
Production years 1997–2000 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi AKE is a 2,393 cc inline-five petrol engine engineered for mid-size and executive sedans (1997–2000). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a DOHC 20-valve layout to deliver smooth, linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it balances refinement with drivability for its generation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,393 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.5 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (renew every 120,000 km) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-five design provides smooth, vibration-free power delivery ideal for highway cruising and relaxed driving, but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent hydraulic tappet wear. VW 502 00 (5W-40) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and additive package protecting lifters and camshafts. The timing belt must be replaced every 120,000 km or 6 years—failure risks severe engine damage. Fuel system longevity depends on using high-octane petrol (RON 98) to prevent carbon buildup on intake valves. Post-1998 models benefit from revised tappet materials; earlier units should be monitored for lifter noise.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 (5W-40) specification (Audi SIB 010903). Supersedes ACEA A2/A3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1997–2000 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output remains consistent across markets (Audi TIS Doc. A19340).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18830, A19340, SIB 010903
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Audi AKE was used across Audi's C4/B5 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-intake manifold tuning in the A6 and exhaust routing revisions in the A4 Avant-and from 1998, the facelifted A6 models adopted revised tappets, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A18830). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for AKE series). Pre-1998 models have silver valve covers with ribbed finish; post-1998 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from AEB/AGU: AKE has an inline-five configuration with five individual throttle bodies, while AEB uses a four-cylinder layout. Service parts require model-year verification—tappets for pre-1998 AKE engines are not compatible with post-1998 revisions due to material upgrades (Audi SIB 010903).
The AKE's primary reliability risk is hydraulic tappet wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. Internal Audi service reports from 1999 noted a significant number of pre-1998 engines exhibiting lifter noise before 100,000 km, while VCA records show timing belt neglect as a leading cause of engine failure in MOT-exempt older vehicles. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality fuel increase tappet and intake deposit risks, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1997-2000) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI AKE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with AUDI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
AUDI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
