The Audi CAYC is a 1,968 cc, inline — four turbo — diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It forms part of the Volkswagen Group’s EA288 engine family, designed for efficiency and durability across compact and mid — size platforms. Featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 81–103 kW (110–140 PS) and 250–320 Nm of torque, supporting both urban and highway driving demands.
Fitted to…
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6b or 6d-TEMP depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CAYC is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2010–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| 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 | 81–103 kW (110–140 PS) | |
Torque | 250–320 Nm @ 1,500–2,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6b/6d-TEMP (2015–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (BorgWarner KT18) | |
Timing system | Double-row roller chain (long-life design) | |
Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 142 kg |
The Audi CAYC was used across Audi's 8V, B8, B9, and C7 platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive variants and longitudinal in quattro models. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised cooling circuits in A6 C7-and from 2015 the switch to Euro 6 emissions brought SCR/AdBlue integration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships within the Volkswagen Group allowed shared use in Škoda, Volkswagen, and SEAT models with minor software tuning differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CAYC's primary reliability risk is EGR cooler failure in early Euro 6 models, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Audi internal field reports from 2016 indicated a significant number of 2015–2016 units required EGR cooler replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased emissions-related failures in city-driven examples. Frequent cold starts and short trips exacerbate thermal stress, making regular highway operation and coolant maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CAYC is generally robust, especially compared to earlier EA189 engines. However, early Euro 6 models (2015–2016) have a known EGR cooler cracking issue under urban use. Later revisions resolved this, and the timing system is more durable than previous designs. Regular maintenance, proper oil (VW 504 00/507 00), and periodic highway driving significantly improve longevity.
Key issues include EGR cooler cracking (2015–2016 models), DPF clogging from short trips, AdBlue system faults, and occasional timing chain tensioner wear. These are documented in Audi service bulletins and field reports. Proper maintenance and driving habits can mitigate most risks.
The CAYC was used in the Audi A3 (8V, 2013–2018), A4 (B8/B9, 2010–2018), and A6 (C7, 2012–2018). It powers both front-wheel-drive and quattro variants. The engine is also shared across the Volkswagen Group in Škoda Octavia Mk3, Volkswagen Passat B8, and SEAT Leon Mk3 with minor calibration differences.
Yes, the CAYC responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically achieve 130–140 kW (177–190 PS) safely, as the stock turbo and internals handle increased torque. Some tuners offer up to 150 kW with supporting mods. However, over-tuning can strain the DPF and SCR systems, so caution is advised.
Excellent. In an A4 2.0 TDI (110 kW) from 2016, combined consumption is ~4.2 L/100km (~67 mpg UK). Real-world figures range from 50–65 mpg UK depending on driving style. The 'ultra' efficiency variants achieve up to 70 mpg UK under optimal conditions. Highway driving yields best results due to DPF regeneration needs.
Yes. The CAYC is an interference engine, meaning a timing failure can result in piston-to-valve contact and severe internal damage. While the double-row chain is more robust than previous designs, any rattling or timing fault should be investigated immediately to prevent costly repairs.
Audi specifies VW 504 00 / 507 00 compliant synthetic oil (typically SAE 5W-30). This low-ash formulation is critical for DPF and SCR system longevity. Change intervals are 15,000 km or annually under normal use. Using incorrect oil can lead to injector coking, turbo wear, and emissions system faults.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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AUDI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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