The Audi CBBB is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It features common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, serving as a core powertrain for Audi's compact and mid-size lineup.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), A6 (C6/C7), and Q5 (8L), the CBBB engine was engineered for balanced performance, fuel economy, and low-end torque. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), enabling Euro 4 compliance for early builds and Euro 5 for post-2010 units depending on market.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) degradation, particularly on early 2008–2010 units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2010-03-01, is linked to fuel quality sensitivity and inadequate lubrication in low-sulfur diesel environments. From 2011 onward, revised Bosch CP3 pump calibrations and updated fuel filters were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2013 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CBBB is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and executive models (2008–2013). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and highway efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances daily drivability 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 | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2013) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-03 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The CBBB provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban and motorway driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife-03 (5W-30) to maintain fuel pump and turbo longevity. The Bosch CP3 high-pressure fuel pump is sensitive to fuel quality, necessitating EN 590 ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) to prevent premature wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway runs to prevent clogging and regeneration faults. Early models (2008–2010) are prone to HPFP failure; post-2011 revisions with updated calibration and filter design show improved reliability. Timing chain inspections are recommended beyond 200,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-03 (5W-30) specification (Audi TSB 2009-05-02). Supersedes ACEA B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 4 applies to pre-2010 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance verified for 2010–2013 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across EU markets with EN 590 fuel (Audi Group PT-2020).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34022, A34501, TSB 2010-03-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CBBB was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the A3 (8P) and revised cooling routing in the Q5 (8L)-and from 2010 the facelifted A4 B8 LCI models adopted updated EGR calibration, creating minor service part differences. 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 oil pan rail (Audi TIS A34022). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CBBB series). Pre-2010 models feature a silver valve cover with a black plastic timing cover; post-2010 units use an all-black valve cover. Critical differentiation from later CAHA: CBBB uses Bosch CP3 fuel pump with a single fuel line, while CAHA uses CP4 with dual lines. Service parts require production date verification—HPFP kits for pre-2010 engines are incompatible with post-2011 revisions due to internal pump redesign (Audi TSB 2010-03-01).
The CBBB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban-driven vehicles. Internal Audi quality reports from 2011 noted a significant share of pre-2010 units requiring HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links EGR/DPF clogging to frequent short trips. Extended oil intervals and low-quality diesel increase pump and turbo wear, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2012–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CBBB.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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AUDI Official Site
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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
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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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