The Audi CAND is a 1,798 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It features direct fuel injection (TSI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard output form it delivers 125 kW (170 PS), with torque of 250 Nm, engineered for responsive performance and fuel efficiency in Audi's compact and mid-size lineup.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8V), A4 (B8), and Q3 (8U), the CAND engine was designed for drivers seeking a balance of urban agility and highway refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and lambda control, enabling Euro 5 compliance across all production years depending on market specification.
One documented reliability concern is timing chain wear, particularly in vehicles with extended service intervals or frequent short-trip usage. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2013-10-01, is linked to premature wear of the chain tensioner and guide rails under cold-start conditions. From 2013 onward, Audi implemented revised tensioner design and updated oil service intervals to mitigate risk.
All production years (2010–2016) meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CAND is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2010–2016). It combines TSI direct injection with dual VVT to deliver strong mid-range torque and responsive throttle characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances real-world performance with regulated efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (IHI VF37) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (interval: 240,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The CAND delivers broad torque availability ideal for daily driving, but requires strict adherence to 15,000–20,000 km service intervals to maintain timing chain and turbo health. VW 502 00 (5W-30) oil is mandatory to ensure proper chain tensioner lubrication and prevent premature wear. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel system is sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of port cleaning, requiring periodic intake cleaning per Audi SIB 13 10 01. Turbocharger reliability is high when oil changes are maintained; neglect leads to bearing wear and oil coking. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce stress on the chain system during warm-up.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 specification (Audi SIB 13 10 01). Replaces ACEA A1/B1 and A5/B5 standards for this engine.
Emissions: Full production run (2010–2016) meets Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). No Euro 6 variants produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. Output consistent across EU markets with 95 RON fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A20110).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A19520, A19815, SIB 13 10 01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Methods of measurement of fuel consumption and range
The Audi CAND was used across Audi's 8V/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 Q3 and revised intake manifolds in the A3—and from 2013 the facelifted A4 B8.5 adopted updated ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A19560). The 7th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('D' for CAND series). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 3: CAND uses a single-scroll IHI turbo, while later EA888 units use twin-scroll BorgWarner turbos. Service parts require production date verification—timing chains for pre-2013 models are not compatible with post-2013 calibration revisions (Audi SIB 13 10 01).
The CAND's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 noted a significant number of tensioner failures before 180,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows lambda sensor faults as a leading cause of emissions failures. Extended idling and poor oil quality increase chain and sensor stress, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CAND.
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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UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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