The Audi BRC is a 2,098 cc, inline-four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It features common rail direct injection (CRD), variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering 130 kW (177 PS) and 400 Nm of torque. Its high-pressure fuel system and precise EGR control make it suitable for longitudinal mounting in Audi's mid-size and luxury platforms.
Fitted to models such as the 8W A4, 4H A5, and 3C A6, the BRC engine was engineered for strong highway performance and responsive overtaking capability. 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) with AdBlue injection, meeting Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2013-08-04. This issue is associated with prolonged use of substandard diesel fuel, leading to inadequate lubrication and premature plunger wear. Audi introduced revised fuel pump calibration and updated fuel quality advisories in 2014 to mitigate failure risk.
Production years 2011–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi BRC is a 2,098 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine engineered for mid-size and luxury models (2011–2018). It combines common rail direct injection with variable geometry turbocharging to deliver strong mid-range 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 | 2,098 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 83.0 mm × 96.7 mm | |
| Power output | 130 kW (177 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1,500–2,750 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 | 16.0:1 | |
| 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 | 154 kg |
The VGT turbocharging provides strong mid-RPM torque ideal for motorway 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 SCR calibration; pre-2015 units benefit from updated software per Audi SIB 2013-08-04. SCR system longevity depends on consistent AdBlue dosing and NOx sensor performance.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 03 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2013-08-04). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 130 kW output requires EU5+ diesel quality (Audi TIS Doc. A32602).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32052, A32502, A32712, SIB 2013-08-04
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BRC was used across Audi's 8W/4H platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the 3C A6 and revised cooling routing in the 8W A4-and from 2015 the facelifted 8W B8.5 models adopted the BRC variant with updated SCR 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 A32082). 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 BRC uses Bosch EDC17CP56 ECU with 144-pin connector, while Gen 2 uses EDC17CP74 with 160-pin. Service parts require production date verification - fuel pumps for engines before 03/2014 are incompatible with later units due to internal plunger redesign (Audi SIB 2013-08-04).
The BRC's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles fueled at non-franchised stations. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 indicated a significant share of pre-2014 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 130,000 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 fuel quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2011–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BRC.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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