The Audi BLB is a 1,390 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection, and a naturally aspirated design. Delivering 81 kW (110 PS) and 130 Nm of torque, it was engineered for compact vehicle applications requiring balanced performance and fuel efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A1 and Audi A3 (8P) hatchbacks, the BLB engine was tuned for urban and suburban driving conditions, offering responsive low-end power and quiet operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, enabling Euro 4 standard certification across its production run.
One documented service concern involves early wear of the timing belt tensioner, particularly in pre-2010 units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 01 07 15, is commonly associated with delayed maintenance intervals. In 2010, revised tensioner materials were introduced to improve durability, aligning with updated maintenance schedules.
Production years 2008–2013 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Audi BLB is a 1,390 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks (2008–2013). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive city driving characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances fuel economy with reliable everyday performance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,390 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.5 mm × 75.6 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 01 502 00 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 108 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. Audi Longlife 01 502 00 (5W-40) oil is essential for maintaining camshaft and lifter longevity. Extended idling or short-trip driving may accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves due to absence of direct injection. The MPI system is tolerant of standard fuel but performs best with premium-grade petrol (RON 98) to maintain combustion efficiency. Post-2010 models feature upgraded tensioner materials; pre-2010 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 01 07 15. Three-way catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent warm-up cycles and avoidance of oil/fuel contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 01 502 00 (5W-40) specification (Audi SIB 01 07 15). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades; optimal performance with RON 98 (Audi TIS Doc. A14021).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A13571, A13723, SIB 01 07 15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BLB was used across Audi's 8P platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the A1 and revised ECU mapping for stop-start integration in later A3 models-and from 2010 the facelifted A3 incorporated updated emissions sensors, creating interchange limits. 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 exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A13806). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for BLB series). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2010 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 1.4 TFSI: BLB has no turbocharger or intercooler, and uses MPI injectors instead of direct injection. Service parts require production date verification - timing belt kits for engines before 09/2010 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 01 07 15).
The BLB's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban-highway use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2012 indicated a notable number of pre-2010 engines requiring belt replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant share of emissions-related MOT failures to lambda sensor degradation in high-mileage vehicles. Extended oil intervals and short-trip driving increase valve train and sensor stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2009-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BLB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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