The Audi BRF is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2012. It belongs to the EA189 engine family and features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with four valves per cylinder. Equipped with common rail direct injection and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end response and smooth mid-range performance in compact and mid-size Audi models.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and TT (8J) models, including the 2.0 TDI variants, the BRF engine was engineered for fuel efficiency, refinement, and Euro 5 emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and precise common rail injection operating at up to 1,800 bar, ensuring clean combustion and long-term durability.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, which can lead to fuel delivery inconsistencies and engine stalling. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 01 09 08, is attributed to inadequate lubrication under extended service intervals or use of substandard diesel fuel. Audi responded with revised maintenance schedules and fuel quality recommendations to mitigate risk.
Production years 2008–2012 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi BRF is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine developed for transverse-mounted applications (2008–2012). It combines common rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with economy in front-wheel and quattro-driven configurations.
| 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 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (interval: 150,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 05 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 145 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 to maintain fuel pump and turbo longevity. Audi Longlife 05 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its low-SAPS formulation protecting DPF and EGR systems. Extended short-trip driving may accelerate DPF clogging and EGR fouling. The Bosch HPFP demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent premature wear. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce soot accumulation. EGR/DPF systems require periodic regeneration and cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 05 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 01 09 08). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all BRF production models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Audi TIS Doc. A19205).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A19205, A19206, A19207, SIB 01 09 08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Audi BRF was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8/8J platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the A4 and shorter accessory drives in the A3-and from 2012 the facelifted A3 8V adopted the CKAA variant with revised emissions control, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the oil filter housing (Audi TIS A19210). The 7th digit of the VIN identifies the engine family ('C' for 2.0 TDI EA189 series). Pre-2010 models have silver cam covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2010 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from other EA189 variants: BRF has a Garrett GT1544V turbo with single VGT actuator; later CKAA uses a modified housing for enhanced EGR integration. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps for pre-2010 models are incompatible with post-2010 revisions due to calibration updates (Audi SIB 01 09 08).
The BRF's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles fueled with non-compliant diesel. Internal Audi quality reports from 2010 noted a significant number of pre-2010 engines requiring HPFP replacement, while UK DVSA records indicate a notable share of MOT failures linked to fuel system faults in neglected units. Extended service intervals and frequent short trips increase pump stress, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008-2012) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012-2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BRF.
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