The Audi CAHA is a 1,984 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2020. It belongs to the third generation of the EA888 engine family and features direct fuel injection (TFSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. Output ranges from 140–180 kW (190–245 PS) with torque between 320–370 Nm, delivering responsive performance and strong mid‑range pull.
Fitted to models such as the A4 (B9), A5 (8T), Q5 (FY), and TT (8S)—includ…

All production years (2016–2020) meet Euro 6c standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/GPF/5678).
The Audi CAHA is a 1,984 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact executive and SUV applications (2016–2020). It combines direct injection (TFSI) with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive power and smooth torque delivery. Designed to meet Euro 6c emissions standards, it integrates a gasoline particulate filter for urban air quality compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
Power output | 140–180 kW (190–245 PS) | |
Torque | 320–370 Nm @ 1,600–4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6c | |
Compression ratio | 11.7:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
Turbocharger | Twin‑scroll (IHI or BorgWarner, model‑dependent) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 504 00 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 158 kg |
The Audi CAHA was used across Audi's B9/FY platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Q5 and revised cooling in the A5 Sportback—and from mid-2018 incorporated updated pistons per WSP 2018‑07, creating minor internal interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CAHA's primary reliability risk is elevated oil consumption in early builds, with incidence concentrated in vehicles produced before mid-2018. Audi internal data indicated up to 8% of pre-update engines required piston replacement under warranty, while UK DVSA records show low emissions-related failures thanks to robust GPF integration. Short-trip driving and incorrect oil use exacerbate wear, making adherence to VW 502 00/504 00 specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
Generally yes, especially post-2018 models with updated pistons. Early units (2016–mid-2018) may consume oil excessively, but this was resolved by Audi. With correct oil (VW 502 00/504 00) and regular servicing, the CAHA offers strong performance and durability.
Top issues include oil consumption (early builds), high-pressure fuel pump wear, GPF clogging from short trips, and coolant flange leaks. All are documented in Audi service bulletins, and most are preventable with proper maintenance and driving habits.
The CAHA appears in the A4 B9 (40/45 TFSI), A5 8T (40/45 TFSI), Q5 FY (40/45 TFSI), and TT 8S (45 TFSI) from 2016–2020. It’s part of the EA888 Gen 3 family and always includes a gasoline particulate filter for Euro 6c compliance.
Yes. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +30–50 kW safely on stock internals. The turbo and fuel system support up to ~220 kW with supporting mods. Always use 98 RON fuel and monitor oil consumption post-tune to avoid overstressing components.
In an A4 40 TFSI, expect ~7.8 L/100km city and ~5.6 L/100km highway, or ~42 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures range 38–48 mpg (UK) depending on driving style. GPF-equipped engines may use slightly more fuel during active regeneration cycles.
Yes. Like all modern Audi petrol engines, the CAHA is an interference design. If the timing chain fails (rare but possible), valve-to-piston contact can cause catastrophic damage. Fortunately, the chain is front-mounted and designed for life-of-engine use.
Audi specifies VW 502 00 or 504 00 (5W-40) synthetic oil. Never use ACEA C3 or non-approved oils, as they lack the necessary additives for HPFP and turbo protection. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.
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.