The Audi AKH is a 1,598 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1998 and 2001. It belongs to Audi's EA113 engine family, featuring a SOHC 8-valve configuration and multi-point fuel injection (MPI). Delivering 55 kW (75 PS) at 5,000 rpm and 136 Nm of torque at 2,500 rpm, it was engineered for economical urban driving and light-load applications.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A3 (8L) and Audi A4 (B5), the AKH engine was designed for fuel-efficient, low-maintenance operation in entry-level trims. It met Euro 2 emissions standards through a catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control. No variable valve timing or forced induction was used, preserving mechanical simplicity while meeting late-1990s environmental targets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, which can lead to belt slippage or breakage. This issue, highlighted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 075035, is often attributed to extended service intervals and exposure to high thermal loads. From 1999, revised tensioner materials and updated maintenance schedules were introduced across the EA113 lineup to improve long-term reliability.
Production years 1998–2001 meet Euro 2 emissions standards; equipped with catalytic converter and EVAP system (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).
The Audi AKH is a 1,598 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1998–2001). It utilises a SOHC 8-valve layout with multi-point fuel injection to deliver reliable, low-cost motoring. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritises mechanical simplicity and serviceability over performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 136 Nm @ 2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (SOHC, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40, ACEA A2 | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The naturally aspirated SOHC design offers predictable, low-stress operation ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km or 6-year timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA A2 is essential for maintaining camshaft and lifter longevity. Premature timing belt failure is often linked to tensioner wear, especially in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. The MPI system demands clean fuel; low-octane petrol can cause knock and long-term combustion chamber deposits. From 1999, updated tensioner materials per Audi SIB 075035 reduced failure rates. No VVT or turbocharging simplifies maintenance but limits performance tuning potential. EVAP system integrity must be verified during emissions testing to prevent purge valve faults.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A2 specification (Audi SIB 075035). Compatible with mineral or semi-synthetic formulations.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all AKH models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012). Requires functioning catalytic converter and charcoal canister.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets due to mechanical fuel system calibration.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A20220, A20245, SIB 075035
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Audi AKH was used across Audi's 8L and B5 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drives in the A3 and reinforced engine mounts in the A4-and from 1999 the facelifted A3 (8L) models adopted revised intake manifolds, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A20230). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for AKH series). Pre-1999 models have ribbed valve covers with distributor cap visible; post-1999 units use smoother castings. Critical differentiation from AFT engine: AKH has no variable valve timing and uses a distributor-based ignition system, whereas AFT features VVT and coil-on-plug ignition. Service parts require chassis number verification—timing belts for A3 models differ from A4 due to accessory drive layout differences (Audi SIB 075035).
The AKH's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding recommended service intervals. Internal Audi quality reports from 2001 noted a significant number of pre-1999 units requiring belt replacement before 120,000 km, while VCA records show increased failure rates in vehicles operated in high-temperature environments. Infrequent oil changes and extended service intervals increase tensioner degradation risk, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (1998-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2002-2007). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI AKH.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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