The Audi CAPA is a 1,798 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2019. It features turbocharging, direct fuel injection (TSI), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing. In standard tune, it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsiveness and efficiency for compact and mid-size Audi models.
Fitted to models such as the 8V A3, 8W A4, and 3C A6, the CAPA engine was engineered for drivers seeking refined performance and everyday drivability. It supports start-stop functionality and uses a timing chain for valvetrain drive. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalyst and lambda control, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, highlighted in Audi Service Bulletin 2013-08-01. This issue is typically linked to extended oil change intervals and low oil pressure during cold starts. Audi issued revised tensioner and guide components in 2013, improving long-term reliability in updated production units.
Production years 2013–2019 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CAPA is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbo petrol engineered for compact and mid-size models (2013–2019). It combines turbocharged direct injection (TSI) with variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-end torque and smooth acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulated emissions and fuel economy.
| 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) @ 5,100–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted; tensioner wear documented) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 127 kg |
The TSI turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. VW 502 00 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its shear stability and protection of the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce oil starvation at the upper chain guide. The Bosch HDEV5 fuel pump demands high-octane petrol (RON 98) to prevent knock and injector coking. Post-2013 models feature revised chain guides; pre-2013 units should have the tensioner upgrade per Audi SIB 2013-08-01. Lambda and EGR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2013-08-01). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2013–2019 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 125 kW output requires RON 98 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. B37200).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B37021, B37102, SIB 2013-08-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CAPA was used across Audi's 8V/8W platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 8V A3 and revised cooling routing in the 8W A4-and from 2013 the facelifted 8V models adopted the updated chain tensioner system, 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 cover (Audi TIS B37021). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for 1.8 TSI series). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2013 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from later EA888 Gen 3: Original CAPA uses Bosch HDEV5 ECU with round diagnostic port, while Gen 3 uses HDEV6 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2013 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Audi SIB 2013-08-01).
The CAPA's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 noted a significant share of pre-2013 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in city-driven vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CAPA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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