The Audi BZB is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2004 and 2008. It forms part of the Volkswagen Group's EA189 engine family, featuring common rail direct injection and variable geometry turbocharging (VGT). With dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, providing strong mid-range performance for everyday driving.
Fitted to models including the A3 (8P), A4 (B7), and A6 (C6), the BZB was engineered for balanced performance, fuel economy, and smooth operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and precise fuel metering, enabling Euro 4 emissions standard compliance across its production run. Its refinement made it a popular choice in both hatchback and executive sedan applications.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner, which can lead to belt slippage or failure if not addressed. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Bulletin 2010 133 01, is often linked to extended service intervals and high-temperature degradation of the tensioner's internal spring mechanism. In 2007, Audi introduced a revised tensioner design to improve long-term reliability.
Production years 2004–2008 meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BZB is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2004–2008). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive mid-range torque and stable highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances performance with regulated emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,900–2,300 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Rubber timing belt with hydraulic tensioner | |
| Oil type | VW 505.00 / 507.00 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The VGT setup provides strong mid-range pull ideal for A-road cruising but demands strict adherence to 4-year or 120,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference failure. VW 505.00/507.00 oil is essential due to its thermal stability protecting the EGR and turbo systems. Extended idling or short trips accelerate carbon buildup in the intake manifold. The Bosch CRS 2.0 system requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent injector clogging. Pre-2007 models should have the updated tensioner per Audi SIB 2010 133 01; failure to do so increases risk of belt derailment. DPF regeneration cycles require regular highway runs to remain effective.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 505.00 or 507.00 specification (Audi SIB 2010 133 01). Supersedes ACEA B5 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all production years (2004–2008) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across markets (Audi TIS Doc. A31588).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31250, A31588, SIB 2010 133 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Audi BZB was used across Audi's 8P/B7/C6 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory belts in the A3 and revised EGR routing in the A6-and remained consistent through its lifecycle without facelift revisions. 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 timing belt cover (Audi TIS A31250). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for BZB in EU markets). Pre-2007 models have a silver timing cover with black camshaft seals; post-2007 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from later EA189 units: BZB uses a rubber timing belt with hydraulic tensioner, while post-2008 EA189 engines use a chain-driven camshaft. Service parts require production date verification - tensioners for models before 06/2007 are incompatible with revised units (Audi SIB 2010 133 01).
The BZB's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal Audi quality reports from 2009 indicated a notable share of pre-2007 engines requiring premature belt replacement, while UK DVSA records show timing-related failures as a leading cause of MOT rejection for diesel Audis in this period. Frequent short trips and delayed maintenance increase belt and tensioner stress, making adherence to replacement intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2006–2010) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BZB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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