Engine Code

AUDI BVG engine (2008–2012) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Audi BVG is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2012. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end pull for daily driving and motorway efficiency.

Fitted to models including the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and A6 (C6), the BVG engine was engineered for balanced performance and fuel economy in compact and mid-size Audi sedans and hatchbacks. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), meeting Euro 4 standards for early builds and Euro 5 for post-2010 variants depending on market.

One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly under sustained high-load conditions. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Bulletin 2011-03-07, is linked to fuel quality sensitivity and inadequate lubrication in early CP3-based systems. From 2010 onward, revised pump calibration and updated fuel filtration were implemented to improve durability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2012 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

BVG Technical Specifications

The Audi BVG is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size applications (2008–2012). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards, it balances real-world drivability with emissions compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,968 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged
Bore × stroke81.0 mm × 95.5 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 4,000 rpm
Torque320 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CP3 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2012)
Compression ratio16.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable-geometry turbo (Garrett)
Timing systemChain-driven (front-mounted, non-interference)
Oil typeAudi Longlife-03 (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weight148 kg
Practical Implications

The BVG's VGT turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife-03 (5W-30) to maintain HPFP and EGR system longevity. Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) is essential to prevent high-pressure pump wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway runs to prevent clogging and regeneration issues. Post-2010 models benefit from revised fuel pump firmware and improved filtration. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce soot accumulation in the intake tract.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-03 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2011-03-07). Supersedes ACEA B4 standards.

Emissions: Euro 4 applies to 2008–2009 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2010–2012 depending on market.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across EU markets with EN 590 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A33010).

Primary Sources

Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32001, A32500, A32800, SIB 2011-03-07

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

BVG Compatible Models

The Audi BVG was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8 platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive configurations. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised cooling routing in the A4—and from 2010 the B8 A4 facelift adopted updated emissions calibration, creating partial interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Audi
Years:
2008–2012
Models:
A3 (8P)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 140 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2020
Make:
Audi
Years:
2008–2009
Models:
A4 (B7)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 140 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A34010
Make:
Audi
Years:
2009–2012
Models:
A4 (B8)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 140 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2020
Make:
Audi
Years:
2008–2011
Models:
A6 (C6)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 140 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A36020
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A32800). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for BVG series). Pre-2010 models have a silver valve cover with a black timing cover; post-2010 units use an all-black cover. Critical differentiation from EA189: BVG has a front-mounted timing chain with a single VGT turbo, while EA189 uses a rear chain and different ECU placement. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps before 06/2010 are incompatible with later firmware versions (Audi SIB 2011-03-07).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Audi TIS Doc. A32800

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A32800).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2010: Silver valve cover with black timing cover
  • Post-2010: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2011-03-07

Fuel Pump:

HPFP units manufactured before June 2010 require firmware-specific ECUs and are not interchangeable with post-2010 modules.

Emissions Calibration:

Post-2010 B8 A4 models have updated EGR mapping; ECUs are not directly swappable with B7 units without reprogramming.

Common Reliability Issues - AUDI BVG

The BVG's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non-compliant diesel fuel. Internal Audi quality reports from 2012 indicated a significant share of pre-2010 units required HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links EGR clogging to frequent urban driving. Extended idling and low-quality fuel exacerbate pump and EGR degradation, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, fuel pressure DTCs, black smoke under load.
Cause: CP3 pump internals susceptible to wear with low-lubricity diesel; early firmware lacks adaptive compensation for wear.
Fix: Replace with latest-spec Bosch CP3 unit and update ECU calibration per Audi SIB 2011-03-07; verify fuel quality and filter condition.
EGR valve and cooler clogging
Symptoms: Rough idle, DPF regeneration frequency, limp mode, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Carbon buildup from oil vapour and soot restricts EGR valve motion and cooler efficiency.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve and cooler per Audi TIS A34500; renew vacuum lines and perform system adaptation.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Boost fluctuation, over/under-boost codes, reduced throttle response.
Cause: Actuator lever mechanism prone to carbon buildup and spring fatigue under thermal cycling.
Fix: Inspect and replace actuator or full turbo assembly; recalibrate boost control via diagnostic tool.
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on engine underside, burning smell, low oil level warnings.
Cause: Gasket material degrades over time due to heat cycling; PCV system blockage increases crankcase pressure.
Fix: Replace valve cover gasket with OEM part and inspect CCV system for blockages; maintain oil change intervals.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about AUDI BVG

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BVG.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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AUDI Official Site

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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.

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UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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