The Audi BES is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque. High-pressure fuel precision enables strong low-rpm pulling power for daily driving.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and A6 (C6), the BES engine was engineered for balanced performance, fuel economy, and refinement in compact and mid-size Audi vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 4 standards through 2009 and transitioning to Euro 5 for later production years.
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in vehicles with extended service intervals. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 20 10 81, is linked to fuel contamination and inadequate lubrication under low-sulfur conditions. From 2010, revised pump calibration and updated fuel filters were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2013 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BES is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2008–2013). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances real-world economy with driving comfort.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| 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 (2010–2013) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (service interval: 180,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The VGT setup provides linear boost delivery ideal for urban and highway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km service intervals to prevent EGR and DPF clogging. VW 504 00/507 00 oil is essential for injector and turbo longevity under high thermal loads. Extended idling and short trips increase soot accumulation, necessitating active regeneration cycles. The Bosch HPFP is sensitive to fuel quality; use only EN 590 ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to prevent premature wear. Post-2010 models include updated fuel filter housings and revised ECU mapping to improve pump reliability. DPF regeneration faults are common if long-distance driving is infrequent.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 20 11 15). Not compatible with ACEA A/B standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 applies to pre-2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2010–2013 units in UK markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output maintained across EU markets with EN 590 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A32050).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32050, A32510, SIB 20 10 81, SIB 20 11 15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Audi BES was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8/C6 platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive variants and longitudinal in quattro models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised exhaust routing in the A4 B8-and from 2010 the facelifted A4 B8.5 adopted revised EGR cooling, 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 belt cover (Audi TIS A32050). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for BES series). Pre-2010 models have a silver timing cover and black intake manifold; post-2010 units use black covers. Critical differentiation from later CR-engines: BES uses Bosch CRS 2-20 HPFP with 1,600 bar max pressure, while CR units use 1,800 bar systems. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-2010 A4 B7 are not interchangeable with B8 models due to tensioner design changes (Audi SIB 20 11 15).
The BES's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation, with elevated incidence in mixed urban driving. Internal Audi quality reports from 2011 noted a significant share of pre-2010 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links EGR-related faults to frequent short trips. Extended idling and low-quality fuel increase soot and pump wear, 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 BES.
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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