The Audi CBAB is a 1,984 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features turbocharging, direct fuel injection (FSI/TFSI), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering responsive performance across Audi's compact and mid-size lineup. In standard tune, it produces 125 kW (170 PS) with peak torque of 280 Nm available from 1,750 rpm.
Fitted to platforms including the 8P A3, 8J A4, and Typ 53 RS3, the CBAB engine was engineered for balanced performance and everyday drivability. It supports both transverse and longitudinal mounting configurations, and meets Euro 5 emissions standards through precise air-fuel control and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). Its compact design allowed broad application across Audi's C-segment and B-segment vehicles.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2011-03-01. This issue primarily affects early-build units and is attributed to insufficient oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. From 2011, revised tensioner and guide components were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 5 standards; 2010–2013 models comply with Euro 5b (EURO Vb) depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CBAB is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size Audi models (2008–2013). It combines turbocharging with fuel stratified injection (TFSI) to deliver responsive low-end torque and linear power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances sporty performance with moderate fuel consumption.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 4,300–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1,750–4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 / Euro 5b | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single BorgWarner KP35 turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (rear-mounted; tensioner wear concern) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The turbocharged TFSI design provides strong mid-range pull ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo bearing degradation. Audi Longlife-04 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its formulation supporting the rear-mounted chain system. Extended idling and short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves. The HDEV5 fuel pump demands high-octane fuel (RON 98) to maintain performance and prevent knock. Post-2011 models feature updated chain guides; pre-2011 units should have the tensioner upgraded per Audi SIB 2011-03-01. EGR systems require periodic cleaning to prevent flow restriction and idle instability.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2011-03-01). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2010–2013 models meet Euro 5b depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 125 kW output requires RON 98 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A36010).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34721, A35210, A35602, SIB 2011-03-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CBAB was used across Audi's 8P/8J platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 8P A3 and revised cooling routing in the 8J A4-and from 2011 the facelifted 8J A4 B8.5 models adopted updated chain tensioners, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A34890). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine variant ('C' for CBAB series). Pre-2011 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2011 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from CAEB: CBAB uses a BorgWarner KP35 turbo with a vacuum-actuated wastegate, while CAEB uses an electrically controlled actuator. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2011 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Audi SIB 2011-03-01).
The CBAB's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Internal Audi quality reports from 2012 indicated a notable share of pre-2011 engines requiring chain repair before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant 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 (2009-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CBAB.
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