The Audi AQH is a 1,395 cc, inline — four petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2019. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA211 engine family, featuring turbocharged direct injection (TSI), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing. In standard tune, it produces 110 kW (150 PS) at 5,000 rpm and 250 Nm of torque between 1,500–3,500 rpm, delivering strong low — end response and highway refinement.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A3 (8V), A4 (B8), and A6 (C7) m…
Production years 2013–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Audi AQH is a 1,395 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2013–2019). It combines turbocharged stratified injection (TSI) with variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,395 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (TSI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (2015–2019) | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbocharger with intercooler | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; tensioner wear concern) | |
Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 110 kg |
The Audi AQH was used across Audi's 8V/B8/C7 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture within the Volkswagen Group MQB family. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the A4 and dual-mass flywheel tuning in the A6-and from 2015 the facelifted A3 Sportback adopted the AQH with updated emissions calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The AQH's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2016 noted a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended oil intervals increase tensioner stress, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). 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
The AQH delivers strong performance and good efficiency, but early models (2013–2014) had reliability concerns, particularly timing chain tensioner wear. Later revisions (post-2015) improved durability with updated components, so well-maintained examples can be robust. Regular servicing and using high-quality oil (5W-30 VW 502 00) greatly enhance longevity.
The most documented issues are timing chain tensioner wear (leading to rattling or failure), intake valve carbon buildup, lambda sensor degradation, and valve cover oil leaks. These are confirmed in Audi service bulletins and field reports. Carbon cleaning and timely tensioner updates are key preventative measures.
The AQH 1.4 TFSI (150 PS) was used in the Audi A3 (8V, 2013–2019), A4 (B8, 2014–2016), and A6 (C7, 2014–2016). It was part of the EA211 engine family shared across the Volkswagen Group and was not licensed to non-VAG brands. Applications were limited to front-wheel-drive and quattro models with transverse mounting.
Yes. ECU remaps typically add +30–40 kW on stage 1, as the turbocharged design offers good headroom. Aftermarket intake and exhaust upgrades can support higher gains. However, stock internals are not designed for extreme tuning. Enthusiasts often pair tuning with intercooler and fuel system upgrades for sustained performance.
Good for its power class. In an A3 1.4 TFSI (2014), typical consumption is ~7.8 L/100km (city) and ~5.2 L/100km (highway), or about 48 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures vary with driving style, but expect 40–50 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy AQH engine.
Yes. The AQH is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can contact open valves, resulting in severe internal damage. This makes timely maintenance and immediate attention to timing rattles essential to avoid costly repairs.
Audi specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 (petrol) or 505 00 (multi-vehicle) standards. Use of correct specification oil is critical for timing chain lubrication and longevity. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or one year, whichever comes first, to prevent premature wear.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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