The Audi CABD is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features common rail direct injection (CRD), variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and DOHC valvetrain with 16 valves, delivering 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque between 1,500–2,500 rpm. This configuration provides strong low-end pull suitable for urban and highway driving, with precise fuel metering enhancing efficiency.
Fitted to models including the 8P A3, 8J Q3, and B7 A4, the CABD engine was engineered for balanced performance and fuel economy in compact and mid-size Audi platforms. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and NOx adsorption catalyst, meeting Euro 4 standards across all production years. The engine's compact design supports transverse mounting on the PQ35 platform.
One documented service concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in vehicles with extended service intervals or low-quality diesel. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 20 10 11, stems from abrasive contaminants and inadequate lubrication in ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD). From 2010, Audi introduced revised HPFP internals and updated fuel filter specifications to improve durability.
Production years 2008–2013 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
The Audi CABD is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine developed for Audi's transverse-engine platforms (2008–2013). It combines common rail injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 4 standards, it balances drivability with 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 @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (single-row) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife Diesel 03 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent HPFP and turbo bearing wear. Audi Longlife Diesel 03 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific formulation protecting high-pressure components. Use of EN 590-compliant ultra-low-sulfur diesel is mandatory to prevent HPFP seizure. EGR and DPF systems require periodic regeneration to maintain efficiency; blocked EGR coolers can trigger limp mode. Post-2010 models feature updated fuel pump internals; pre-2010 units benefit from the revised filter per Audi SIB 20 10 11.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife Diesel 03 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 20 10 11). Supersedes ACEA B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 4 certification applies to all CABD production years (2008–2013) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5679).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590 (Audi TIS Doc. A32606).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32051, A32116, A32302, SIB 20 10 11
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5679)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CABD was used across Audi's 8P/8J platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter accessory drives in the A3 and enhanced cooling in the Q3-and from 2010 the facelifted A3 Mk2 adopted revised fuel system components, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A32801). The 7th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('C' for EA189 series). Pre-2010 models feature black valve covers with silver cam covers; post-2010 units use all-black valve covers. Critical differentiation from petrol variants: CABD has a high-pressure fuel pump on the timing cover and VGT turbo with vacuum actuator. Service parts require production date verification—fuel pumps before 06/2010 are not interchangeable with post-facelift designs (Audi SIB 20 10 11).
The CABD's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using non-compliant diesel or extended service intervals. Internal Audi service reports from 2012 indicated a significant number of 8P A3 owners reporting fuel pressure faults before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show increased emissions-related failures linked to EGR clogging in high-mileage units. Poor fuel quality and infrequent maintenance amplify HPFP stress, making fuel filtration and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CABD.
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
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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