The Audi BZC is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard output form it delivers 103 kW (140 PS), with torque of 320 Nm, designed for balance between performance and efficiency in Audi's compact and mid-size lineup.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and A6 (C6/C7), the BZC engine was engineered for drivers seeking responsive low-end torque and refined motorway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), enabling Euro 4 compliance for early models and Euro 5 for post-2010 variants depending on market specification.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in vehicles with extended service intervals or poor fuel quality. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2011-03-01, is linked to premature wear of the CP3.3 pump’s internal cam followers. From 2010 onward, Audi implemented revised fuel system calibration and recommended more frequent fuel filter changes to mitigate risk.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2013 models meet Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi BZC is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2008–2013). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and highway refinement. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances real-world performance with fuel economy.
| 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 @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3.3 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2013) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 180,000 km or 5 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The BZC delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and motorway driving, but requires strict adherence to 15,000–20,000 km service intervals to maintain fuel system and turbo health. VW 504 00 (5W-30) oil is mandatory to ensure proper timing belt tensioner lubrication and prevent premature wear. The Bosch CP3.3 fuel pump is sensitive to water and contaminants, requiring use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) and timely fuel filter replacement. EGR/DPF systems demand regular longer runs to prevent clogging. Vehicles used primarily for short trips should undergo forced regeneration checks every 20,000 km per Audi SIB 01 10 12.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 01 10 12). Replaces ACEA B4 and C3 standards for this engine.
Emissions: Euro 4 applies to 2008–2009 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance confirmed for 2010–2013 units in UK markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output consistent across EU markets with EN 590 diesel (Audi TIS Doc. A20045).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A18730, A19210, SIB 01 10 12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Methods of measurement of fuel consumption and range
The Audi BZC was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8 platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive configurations and longitudinal in quattro models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—modified engine mounts in the A6 and revised intake manifolds in the A3 Sportback—and from 2010 the facelifted A4 B8 adopted revised EGR calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing belt cover (Audi TIS A18750). The 7th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('C' for BZC series). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2010 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA189: BZC uses a CP3.3 fuel pump with a single fuel rail, while later EA189 units use CP3.4 with dual-rail systems. Service parts require production date verification—timing belts for pre-2010 models are not compatible with post-2010 calibration revisions (Audi SIB 01 10 12).
The BZC's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2012 noted a significant number of CP3.3 pump failures before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows EGR-related faults as a leading cause of emissions failures. Extended idling and poor fuel quality increase pump and EGR stress, making fuel filter changes and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI BZC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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