The Audi BEX is a 1,798 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and a single-scroll turbocharger, delivering 125 kW (170 PS) and 250 Nm of torque. Its compact design and thermal efficiency make it suitable for transverse mounting in Audi's compact and mid-size platforms.
Fitted to models such as the 8K A3, 8J A4, and 3C A6, the BEX engine was engineered for responsive urban driving and efficient motorway cruising. It supports start-stop functionality and regenerative braking, contributing to improved fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear, highlighted in Audi Service Bulletin 2012-03-01. This issue is associated with inadequate lubrication to the chain tensioner during cold starts, particularly in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. Audi introduced revised tensioner components and updated oil specifications in 2013 to mitigate the risk.
Production years 2010–2012 meet Euro 5 standards; 2013–2016 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BEX is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2010–2016). It combines TSI direct injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 5,000–6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2013); Euro 6 (2013–2016) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; wear-prone) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 01 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The TSI turbocharging provides strong low-RPM response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. Audi Longlife 01 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability and anti-wear additives protecting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce oil coking in the turbocharger. Direct injection demands high-octane petrol (RON 98) to prevent knock and carbon buildup on intake valves. Post-2013 models feature revised chain guides; pre-2013 units should have the tensioner upgrade per Audi SIB 2012-03-01. Three-way catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent lambda sensor performance and exhaust leak prevention.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 01 (5W-40) specification (Audi SIB 2012-03-01). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2013 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2013–2016 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 125 kW output requires RON 98 fuel quality (Audi TIS Doc. A32600).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32050, A32500, A32710, SIB 2012-03-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BEX was used across Audi's 8K/8J platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 8K A3 and revised cooling routing in the 8J A4-and from 2013 the facelifted 8K FL models adopted the BEX variant with updated chain guides, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front timing cover near the oil filler cap (Audi TIS A32080). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for 2.0 TFSI series). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 3: Original BEX uses Bosch MED 17.5.2 ECU with 120-pin connector, while Gen 3 uses MED 17.8.8 with 160-pin. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2013 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Audi SIB 2012-03-01).
The BEX's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2013 indicated a significant share of pre-2013 engines requiring chain repair before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor faults in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BEX.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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