The Audi BWA is a 1,781 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It belongs to the EA113 engine family and features a DOHC 20-valve configuration with variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam. Naturally aspirated and longitudinally mounted, it delivered 125 kW (170 PS) at 6,300 rpm and 225 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm, providing strong mid-range responsiveness for sporty driving dynamics.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A4 (B6) and A6 (C5), including the 1.8T quattro variants, the BWA was engineered for balanced performance and refinement in Audi's mid-size executive lineup. Its design emphasized high-revving capability and smooth power delivery, making it suitable for both urban and highway driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 3 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner and idler pulleys, which can lead to belt slippage or failure. This issue, highlighted in Audi Service Bulletin 01 07 03, is often attributed to inadequate maintenance intervals or use of non-OEM replacement parts. In 2003, Audi issued revised tensioner components with improved materials to enhance durability, and owners are advised to follow updated service procedures.
Production years 2000–2005 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BWA is a 1,781 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for mid-size performance applications (2000–2005). It combines a high-revving DOHC 20-valve architecture with intake-side variable valve timing to deliver responsive throttle characteristics and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances sporty performance with everyday drivability in longitudinal transaxle layouts.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,781 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 86.4 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multipoint fuel injection (MFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 120,000 km or 6 years) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 01 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The DOHC 20V design provides high-revving performance ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 120,000 km or 6-year timing belt service intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) oil is essential to maintain hydraulic valve adjuster (HVA) function and prevent lifter noise. Extended idling or short trips can accelerate carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection. The MFI system is sensitive to fuel quality; use of minimum 98 RON (95 AKI) fuel is recommended to prevent knock and maintain performance. Post-2003 models feature upgraded tensioner and idler pulleys; earlier units should be retrofitted per Audi SIB 01 07 03 to improve reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) specification (Audi SIB 01 07 03). Supersedes ACEA A3/B3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all BWA models (2000–2005) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Full output requires premium unleaded fuel (RON 98) (Audi TIS Doc. A113-8200).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A113-8001, A113-8105, SIB 01 07 03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN 70020:2004-03 Engine Power Measurement Standard
The Audi BWA was used across Audi's B6/C5 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with SEAT and Škoda in select European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A4 and revised ECU tuning in the A6-and from 2003 updated tensioner hardware was introduced, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A113-8010). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for 1.8T EA113 series). Pre-2003 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2003 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from earlier ABF/AGU engines: BWA features 20-valve head and intake VVT. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 09/2003 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi SIB 01 07 03).
The BWA's primary reliability risk is timing belt system failure on pre-2003 builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal Audi field reports from 2004 noted a significant number of interference-related engine damages due to tensioner wear, while UK DVSA records show timing-related failures as a top cause of MOT rejection for high-mileage B6 A4s. Infrequent oil changes and low-RON fuel increase valve train and knock sensor stress, making maintenance adherence and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2000-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BWA.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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