The Audi BRE is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features double overhead camshafts (DOHC), common rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). Delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, it was engineered for compact and mid-size vehicle applications requiring strong low-end performance and fuel efficiency.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A3 (8V), A4 (B8), and A6 (C7) models, the BRE engine was tuned for responsive urban driving and efficient motorway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling Euro 5 and later Euro 6 compliance.
One documented service concern involves high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 20 15 12, is often linked to contaminated fuel or extended service intervals. In 2014, Audi introduced a revised HPFP design with improved internal wear resistance, aligning with updated maintenance schedules.
Production years 2010–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi BRE is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2010–2018). It combines DOHC valvetrain architecture with Bosch CRS 2.0 common rail injection and a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and efficient highway performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged with variable geometry turbo (VGT) | |
| 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 2.0 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2010–2015); Euro 6d-TEMP (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (interval: 200,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife Diesel 05 504 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes using Audi Longlife Diesel 05 (5W-30) to maintain turbo and chain longevity. The Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent injector and HPFP wear. SCR/AdBlue system requires regular replenishment and warm-up cycles to prevent DPF saturation and limp-mode events. Post-2014 models feature upgraded HPFP internals; pre-2014 units should be monitored per Audi SIB 20 15 12. EGR cooler inspections are recommended at 100,000 km to prevent carbon buildup and coolant contamination.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife Diesel 05 504 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 20 15 12). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements for diesel applications.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2010–2015 models; Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to 2015–2018 units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades; optimal injector longevity with premium diesel (EN 590 compliant).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A14690, A14750, A14820, SIB 20 15 12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BRE was used across Audi's 8V/B8/C7 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the A3 and revised ECU mapping for start-stop integration in later A4 models-and from 2015 the facelifted A6 incorporated updated SCR dosing algorithms, 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 exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A14905). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for BRE series). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from 2.0 TFSI: BRE has a turbocharger, DPF, and AdBlue tank, with no direct injection spark plugs. Service parts require production date verification - HPFP units for engines before 06/2014 are incompatible with later models due to internal redesign (Audi SIB 20 15 12).
The BRE's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in mixed urban-highway use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 indicated a significant number of pre-2014 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable share of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR cooler leaks in high-mileage vehicles. Extended oil intervals and short-trip driving increase turbo and emissions system stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BRE.
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