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) models, the AQH engine was engineered for balanced performance and efficiency across compact and mid-size platforms. Its design emphasizes responsive turbocharged delivery and smooth cruising, achieving Euro 6 emissions compliance through a three-way catalytic converter, lambda control, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). Start-stop technology and regenerative braking were integrated to enhance fuel economy.
One documented concern involves premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly under extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2014-15-03, is linked to inadequate lubrication flow during cold starts. From 2015 onward, Audi implemented an updated tensioner design and revised oil service intervals to mitigate risk.
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 turbocharged TSI design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Use of VW 502 00 (5W-30) specification oil is critical due to its thermal stability and protection of the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling or short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic walnut blasting. Fuel quality must meet EN 228 standards to prevent injector coking. Post-2015 models feature revised tensioner geometry; pre-2015 units should follow Audi SIB 2014-15-03 for inspection and update. EGR and emissions systems require regular cleaning to maintain catalytic efficiency and prevent DPF-related faults.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2014-15-03). Supersedes ACEA A1/B1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680). Euro 6 compliance confirmed for 2015–2019 models in applicable markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 228 (Audi TIS Doc. A13907).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A13572, A13894, SIB 2014-15-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
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.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the alternator bracket (Audi TIS A13607). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA211 series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with ribbed plastic timing covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.8 TFSI: AQH features a smaller turbocharger and different intake manifold routing. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 2014-15-03).
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI AQH.
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.
