The Audi BKE is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 105 kW (143 PS) and 320 Nm of torque. High-pressure fuel precision enables strong low-rpm pulling power ideal for daily driving and motorway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8V), A4 (B8/B8.5), and A6 (C7), the BKE engine was engineered for improved refinement, fuel efficiency, and emissions compliance over its predecessors. Emissions control is achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in certain markets, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 20 10 82, is linked to fuel contamination and inadequate lubrication under ultra-low-sulfur diesel conditions. From 2013, revised pump calibration and updated fuel filtration were implemented to enhance durability.
All BKE models comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi BKE is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2010–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient highway performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances real-world economy with driving comfort and environmental compliance.
| 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 | 105 kW (143 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 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 5 | |
| 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-2013 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 16). Not compatible with ACEA A/B standards.
Emissions: All BKE models comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output maintained across EU markets with EN 590 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A32051).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32051, A32511, SIB 20 10 82, SIB 20 11 16
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Audi BKE was used across Audi's 8V/B8/B8.5/C7 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 B8.5-and from 2013 the facelifted A6 C7.5 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 A32051). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('K' for BKE series). Pre-2013 models have a silver timing cover and black intake manifold; post-2013 units use black covers. Critical differentiation from earlier BES engines: BKE uses updated ECU calibration and revised fuel rail pressure regulation. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-2013 A4 B8 are not interchangeable with B8.5 models due to tensioner design changes (Audi SIB 20 11 16).
The BKE's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation, with elevated incidence in mixed urban driving. Internal Audi quality reports from 2012 noted a significant share of pre-2013 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 (2010–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BKE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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