The Audi BUJ is a 1,798 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features TFSI (Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection), DOHC valvetrain, and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard tune, it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, providing responsive performance in compact and mid-size Audi models.
Fitted to models such as the 8J A3, 8P Q3, and B8 A4, the BUJ engine was engineered for balanced performance and urban drivability. It met Euro 5 emissions standards through a combination of direct injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a three-way catalytic converter. The engine's character prioritises low-end torque and smooth throttle response for everyday driving.
One documented concern is premature timing chain wear, particularly in early production units, as noted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2012-15. This issue is linked to inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts. Audi introduced revised tensioners and guide rails in 2013, improving long-term reliability in later models.
Production years 2010–2012 meet Euro 5 standards; 2013–2015 models may have Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BUJ is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2010–2015). It combines TFSI direct injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 (and some market-specific Euro 6) standards, it balances performance with fuel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 5,100–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2013); Euro 6 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger with variable turbine geometry (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (rear-mounted; wear-prone in early builds) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-01 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 137 kg |
The turbocharged design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. Audi Longlife-01 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its specific formulation supporting the rear-mounted chain system. Cold-start idling should be minimised to reduce oil starvation at the upper chain guide. The HDEV5 fuel pump demands high-octane petrol (RON 98) to prevent pre-ignition and carbon buildup. Post-2013 models feature revised chain guides; pre-2013 units should have the tensioner upgrade per Audi TSB 2012-15. EGR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain efficiency and prevent DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-01 (5W-30) specification (Audi TSB 2012-15). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2013 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 2013–2015 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 125 kW output requires RON 98 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A33015).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32010, A32500, A32701, TSB 2012-15
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi BUJ was used across Audi's 8J/8P/B8 platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Seat and Skoda under VW Group modular strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Q3 and revised cooling in the A4-and from 2013 the facelifted A3 Sportback adopted the EA888 Gen 3 variant with dual-injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-left side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A32150). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('B' for EA888 series). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 3: Original BUJ has Bosch MED 17.5.5 ECU with round diagnostic port, while Gen 3 uses MED 17.8.3 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2012 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Audi TSB 21 04 16).
The BUJ's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2013 indicated a notable share of pre-2013 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BUJ.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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