The Audi CAUA is a 1,798 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2019. It features a turbocharged design with direct fuel injection (TSI), double overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. In standard tune, it delivers 125 kW (170 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, providing strong low-end responsiveness and efficient performance.
Fitted primarily to the Audi A3 (8V), A4 (B8), and Q3 (8U) models, including the 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI variants in certain markets, the CAUA engine was engineered for balanced drivability across urban and highway conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, lambda control, and an integrated exhaust manifold, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 20 12 18, is attributed to insufficient oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. Audi introduced revised tensioner components and updated oil change intervals in 2015 to mitigate the risk.
All models meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6790).
The Audi CAUA is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size models (2013–2019). It combines TSI direct injection with dual VVT and an integrated exhaust manifold to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved thermal efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with 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) @ 4,800–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Turbocharged Stratified Injection (TSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; tensioner wear concern) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 01 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The turbocharged TSI design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for daily driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Audi Longlife 01 (5W-40) oil is essential due to its viscosity profile supporting the front-mounted chain system. Extended idling and short trips can accelerate wear due to inadequate oil circulation. The TSI fuel system is sensitive to carbon buildup on intake valves; regular induction cleaning is recommended. Post-2015 models feature updated tensioner hardware; pre-2015 units should be inspected per Audi SIB 20 12 18. Integrated exhaust manifold improves warm-up efficiency but increases thermal stress on cylinder heads.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 01 (5W-40) specification (Audi SIB 20 12 18). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: All CAUA engines comply with Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6790). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting 95 RON minimum (Audi TIS Doc. A32015).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31605, A32015, SIB 20 12 18
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6790)
DIN Standards: DIN 70020 Engine Power Measurement
The Audi CAUA was used across Audi's 8V/B8/8U platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with SEAT and Škoda in European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised ECU mappings in the A4-and from 2015 the facelifted A3 models adopted updated tensioner hardware, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed SEAT Leon and Škoda Octavia to use the same base engine with minor tuning differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the transmission bellhousing (Audi TIS A31715). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for CAUA series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA888 variants: CAUA engine uses integrated exhaust manifold and TSI injection, while EA888 Gen 3 uses separate manifold. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 06/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Audi SIB 20 12 18).
The CAUA's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant number of pre-2015 engines required tensioner replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased catalytic converter failures in stop-start traffic. Cold-start cycles and low oil pressure exacerbate guide wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CAUA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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