The Audi BKH is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features common rail direct injection (CRD), variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque. Its compact design and thermal efficiency make it ideal for transverse mounting in Audi's compact and mid-size platforms.
Fitted to models such as the 8V A3, 8W A4, and 3C A6, the BKH engine was engineered for balanced driving dynamics, combining strong low-end torque with highway refinement. It supports start-stop functionality and energy recuperation, contributing to improved fuel economy. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in later models, meeting Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards.
One documented concern is excessive carbon buildup in the intake manifold and EGR system, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2014-05-02. This issue is associated with prolonged short-trip driving and inadequate DPF regeneration cycles, leading to reduced airflow and throttle response. Audi introduced revised EGR valve calibration and updated maintenance intervals in 2015 to mitigate carbon accumulation.
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi BKH is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2010–2018). It combines common rail direct injection with variable geometry turbocharging to deliver strong 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 | 1,968 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) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; low wear risk) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 03 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbocharging provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to maintain EGR and DPF functionality. Audi Longlife 03 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its low-ash formulation protecting the SCR and DPF systems. Extended short-trip driving should be minimized to ensure regular DPF regeneration and prevent carbon buildup in the intake and EGR pathways. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) is mandatory to prevent high-pressure fuel system wear. Post-2015 models feature revised EGR valve calibration; pre-2015 units benefit from updated software per Audi SIB 2014-05-02. SCR system longevity depends on consistent AdBlue dosing and NOx sensor performance.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 03 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2014-05-02). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 103 kW output requires EU5+ diesel quality (Audi TIS Doc. A32601).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32051, A32501, A32711, SIB 2014-05-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BKH was used across Audi's 8V/8W platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter exhaust manifolds in the 8V A3 and revised cooling routing in the 8W A4-and from 2015 the facelifted 8V FL models adopted the BKH variant with updated EGR calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A32081). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for 2.0 TDI series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA288 Gen 2: Original BKH uses Bosch EDC17CP56 ECU with 144-pin connector, while Gen 2 uses EDC17CP74 with 160-pin. Service parts require production date verification - EGR valves for engines before 09/2014 are incompatible with later units due to calibration redesign (Audi SIB 2014-05-02).
The BKH's primary reliability risk is carbon buildup in the EGR and intake system on early builds, with elevated incidence in city-driven vehicles. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring EGR cleaning before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to DPF clogging in urban environments. Short-trip cycles and low-speed operation increase soot accumulation, making driving pattern and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BKH.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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