The Audi BDX is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2012. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and double overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque. This engine was part of Audi's modular diesel engine system, designed for compact and mid-size applications.
Fitted to models including the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and A6 (C6), the BDX engine was engineered for balanced performance, fuel economy, and low-end torque. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), enabling Euro 4 compliance across most markets, with select 2010–2012 variants meeting Euro 5 standards.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2010-036, is linked to inadequate lubrication when low-quality diesel fuel is used. In 2010, Audi introduced revised fuel pump calibration and updated injector control software to improve durability.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2012 models may have Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BDX is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2008–2012). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 (and select Euro 5) emissions standards, it balances drivability with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (selected markets, 2010–2012) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, low wear) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-03 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The BDX's VGT turbo enables strong low-end torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent HPFP and turbo wear. Audi Longlife-03 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of high-pressure components. The Bosch CRS 2-20 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent injector and pump damage. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway runs to prevent clogging and regeneration issues. Post-2010 models benefit from updated ECU calibration, improving fuel economy and reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-03 (5W-30) specification (Audi TSB 2010-036). Supersedes ACEA B4 and C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2010–2012 models meet Euro 5 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 103 kW output requires EN 590 diesel (Audi TIS Doc. A32600).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32050, A32510, TSB 2010-036
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BDX was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8 platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive models and longitudinal in quattro variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised EGR routing in the A4-and from 2010 the facelifted A4 B8 adopted revised ECU tuning and emissions calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A32050). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for 2.0 TDI EA189 series). Pre-2010 models use a Bosch EDC17CP14 ECU with round diagnostic connector; post-2010 units use EDC17CP56 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps before 06/2010 are incompatible with later ECU revisions due to updated injection timing (Audi TSB 2010-036).
The BDX's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent short trips. Internal Audi quality reports from 2011 indicated a significant share of pre-2010 engines required HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions-related failures linked to EGR/DPF clogging in city-driven vehicles. Extended idling and low-quality fuel increase pump and injector stress, making fuel quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BDX.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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AUDI Official Site
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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)
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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.
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