The Audi BAR is a 1,781 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2005. It belongs to the EA113 engine family and features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, delivering 96 kW (131 PS) and 173 Nm of torque. Equipped with Bosch Motronic ME7.5.5 engine management, it provides responsive throttle characteristics and strong mid-range performance ideal for urban and highway driving.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A3 (8L) and Audi TT (8N), including the 1.8 20V 131 model variants, the BAR was engineered for balanced performance and fuel efficiency. It uses a timing belt-driven valvetrain and features a cast-iron block with an aluminium cylinder head, contributing to durability under normal operating conditions. Emissions control meets Euro 4 standards through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda feedback system.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not addressed during scheduled maintenance. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 01 03 05, is often linked to inadequate lubrication or use of non-OEM replacement parts. In 2004, Audi introduced revised tensioner assemblies and updated inspection protocols to improve long-term reliability across the EA113 engine line.
All BAR engines comply with Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi BAR is a 1,781 cc inline-four petrol engine designed for compact Audi models (2002–2005). It combines DOHC architecture with Bosch Motronic engine management to deliver responsive mid-range power and reliable daily performance. Built to meet Euro 4 emissions requirements, it balances drivability with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 86.4 mm | |
| Power output | 96 kW (131 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 173 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.5.5, sequential multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (service interval 150,000 km or 5 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 502.00 specification (5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear power delivery suitable for daily driving but requires adherence to maintenance intervals to prevent timing belt-related damage. VW 502.00 (5W-40) oil is essential for valve train and bearing protection under sustained load. The Bosch ME7.5.5 system demands high-quality fuel (RON 95 minimum) to maintain stable combustion and prevent pre-ignition. Timing belt replacement must be performed at 150,000 km or 5 years—failure risks valve/piston contact due to interference design. Cold starts should be followed by gradual warm-up to ensure full oil circulation before high-RPM operation. Post-2004 models benefit from updated tensioner components that reduce risk of premature belt wear.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502.00 specification (Audi SIB 01 03 05). Compatible with ACEA A3/B3 standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 4 standards across all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020. Output consistent across markets with RON 95 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A113-4050).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A113-4000, A113-4020, SIB 01 03 05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing Standard
The Audi BAR was used across Audi's 8L/8N platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group derivatives. This engine received platform-specific tuning variations-shorter intake runners in the TT and revised exhaust manifolds in the A3-and from 2004 the updated tensioner assembly created interchange limits. Partnerships within the VW Group enabled shared use in Volkswagen and SEAT vehicles with identical core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A113-4060). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for BAR series). The BAR engine features a red cam cover and a Bosch ME7.5.5 ECU with a 60-pin connector. Critical differentiation from AGU: BAR has revised intake manifold geometry and updated engine mounts. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts and tensioners are not interchangeable between pre- and post-2004 models due to design updates (Audi SIB 01 03 05).
The BAR's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal Audi field reports from 2005 indicated over 25% of BAR engines required premature belt replacement due to tensioner failure, while UK DVSA records show timing-related faults as a leading cause of MOT failures for this engine family. Infrequent oil changes and use of non-OEM parts increase wear, making adherence to maintenance schedules and component quality critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2002-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BAR.
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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)
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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