The Audi BKN is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2006 and 2013. Part of the EA189 engine family, it features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and common rail direct injection. Delivering 103 kW (140 PS) at 4,000 rpm and 320 Nm of torque at 1,750–2,500 rpm, it was engineered for responsive mid-range performance and improved fuel efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and A6 (C6/C7) models, including the 2.0 TDI 140 PS variants, the BKN engine was tuned for balanced daily driving and motorway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in later models, meeting Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure, which can lead to no-start conditions or reduced power. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2011-01-02, is typically caused by fuel contamination or extended service intervals. Later revisions included updated pump calibration and improved filtration to mitigate failures.
Production years 2006–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2013 models comply with Euro 5 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi BKN is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine developed for compact and executive segments (2006-2013). It features DOHC 16-valve architecture with common rail injection and variable geometry turbocharging, delivering strong low-end torque and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
| 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) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 1,800 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 (VGT) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (non-interference) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 / 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 170 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent EGR and DPF clogging. VW 507 00-compliant 5W-30 oil is essential for injector and pump longevity. Extended idling and short trips increase soot loading, necessitating regular highway runs for passive DPF regeneration. The Bosch HPFP demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent premature wear. Post-2010 models feature revised EGR coolers and updated DPF calibration per Audi SIB 2011-01-02, improving durability in high-mileage applications.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2011-01-02). 5W-30 viscosity recommended for all climates.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to pre-2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). Euro 5 compliance for 2010–2013 units varies by market.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A189-045, A189-078, A189-112, SIB 2011-01-02
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Audi BKN was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8/C6/C7 platforms with transverse or longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen Group's diesel lineup. This engine received platform-specific tuning—reinforced mounts in the A6 (C6) and revised EGR calibration in the A3 (8P)—and from 2013, the facelifted A3 8V adopted the newer EA288 evo variants, creating interchange limits. Shared components with Volkswagen 2.0 TDI units simplified service logistics. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A189-055). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for BKN). Pre-2009 models have silver valve covers with ribbed design; post-2009 units use black covers. Critical differentiation from EA288: BKN uses Bosch CRS 2-20 fuel system; EA288 uses CRS 3-18. Service parts require production date verification—EGR valves for pre-2008 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to flow calibration changes (Audi SIB 2011-01-02).
The BKN's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short trips. Internal Audi quality reports from 2012 noted a significant share of pre-2010 engines exhibiting HPFP wear before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show fuel system faults contributing to emissions failures. Extended service intervals and poor fuel quality increase pump stress, making fuel filtration and timely maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2006-2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BKN.
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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