The Audi BHF is a 1,798 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2017. It forms part of the EA888 Gen 3 engine family, featuring direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard tune it delivered 132 kW (180 PS), with peak torque of 250 Nm available from 1,250 rpm, providing responsive performance across everyday driving conditions.
Fitted to models such as the 8V A3, 8J Q3, and B8/B8.5 A4, the BHF engine was engineered for a balance of sporty responsiveness and fuel efficiency in compact and mid-size platforms. Its driving character emphasizes low-end torque delivery and smooth throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control system, allowing Euro 5 compliance for all production years.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear under extended oil change intervals or aggressive driving conditions, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2014-15-01. The issue stems from inadequate lubrication to the chain tensioner during cold starts. From 2015, revised oil pump and tensioner components were introduced to improve oil flow and durability.
Production years 2012–2017 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BHF is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2012–2017). It combines turbocharged direct injection (TSI) with dual VVT to deliver strong low-RPM torque and responsive throttle characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances sporty driving dynamics with everyday 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 | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 4,300–6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,250–5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; wear-prone under poor maintenance) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The BHF's turbocharged design provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban and motorway driving, but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. VW 502 00 (5W-30) specification oil is critical due to its thermal stability and protection for the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves due to absence of port injection. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel pump requires regular use of high-octane fuel (RON 98) to maintain injector cleanliness and prevent pre-ignition under load. Post-2015 models feature improved oil pump and tensioner; pre-2015 units benefit from the updated kit per Audi SIB 2014-15-01. PCV system maintenance is essential to prevent oil consumption and crankcase pressure issues.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2014-15-01). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2012–2017) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 132 kW output requires RON 98 fuel quality (Audi TIS Doc. A34300).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34021, A34105, A34210, SIB 2014-15-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BHF was used across Audi's 8V/8J/B8 platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen and SEAT for modular applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Q3 and revised cooling routing in the A4-and from 2015 received minor internal updates to the oil pump and timing system, creating partial interchange limits. Partnerships within the VW Group allowed shared use of the EA888 Gen 3 architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A34090). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA888 series). Pre-2015 models have a silver valve cover with black plastic cam cover; post-2015 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 2: BHF uses a Bosch HDEV5 fuel system with 200 bar pressure and revised turbo actuator. Service parts require production date verification—timing kits for engines before 06/2014 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 2014-15-01).
The BHF's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring chain repair before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures linked to oil consumption in high-mileage units. Cold-start cycles and extended oil intervals increase chain and turbo stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BHF.
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