The Audi BDH is a 1,984 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2008. It belongs to the EA113 engine family and features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, delivering 125 kW (170 PS) and 225 Nm of torque. Equipped with Bosch Motronic ME7.5.5 engine management and a variable intake manifold (BAM), it provides strong mid-range power and responsive throttle delivery ideal for sporty driving.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A3 (8P) and Audi TT (8J), including the 2.0 FSI 170 model variants, the BDH was engineered for performance-oriented applications. 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 carbon buildup on intake valves, particularly in direct-injection FSI engines operating under frequent short-trip conditions. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 203005, is caused by oil vapor and fuel impurities depositing on valve stems and heads, reducing airflow and combustion efficiency. In 2006, Audi introduced revised PCV system calibrations and recommended intake cleaning intervals to mitigate long-term performance loss.
All BDH engines comply with Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi BDH is a 1,984 cc inline-four petrol engine designed for performance-focused Audi models (2004–2008). It combines FSI direct injection with variable intake geometry to deliver strong mid-range power and responsive driving dynamics. Built to meet Euro 4 emissions requirements, it balances sporty character with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated, FSI direct injection | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.5.5, FSI direct injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| 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 | 132 kg |
The FSI direct injection system provides precise fuel delivery and strong mid-range performance but requires adherence to maintenance schedules to prevent intake valve carbon buildup. VW 502.00 (5W-40) oil is essential for valvetrain and bearing protection under sustained load. The Bosch ME7.5.5 system demands high-quality fuel (RON 98 premium recommended) 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-2006 models benefit from updated PCV system tuning that reduces oil vapor contribution to intake deposits.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502.00 specification (Audi SIB 203005). Compatible with ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 4 standards across all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020. Output consistent across markets with RON 98 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A113-5150).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A113-5100, A113-5120, SIB 203005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: DIN 70020 Engine Power Testing Standard
The Audi BDH was used across Audi's 8P/8J platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group derivatives. This engine received platform-specific tuning variations-optimized intake runners in the TT and revised exhaust manifolds in the A3-and from 2006 the updated PCV system 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 A113-5160). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for BDH series). The BDH engine features a silver cam cover with '2.0 FSI' label and a Bosch ME7.5.5 ECU with a 60-pin connector. Critical differentiation from BWA: BDH has revised intake manifold geometry and updated engine mounts. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts and PCV valves are not interchangeable between pre- and post-2006 models due to design updates (Audi SIB 203005).
The BDH's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in vehicles with frequent short-trip driving. Internal Audi field reports from 2007 indicated over 30% of BDH engines required intake cleaning before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show intake-related faults as a leading cause of emissions failures for FSI engines. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality fuel increase deposit formation, making adherence to maintenance schedules and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2004-2008) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BDH.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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