The Audi CBZA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2012. It forms part of the Volkswagen Group's EA189 engine family, designed for efficiency and responsive low-end torque. Featuring common rail direct injection (CRDI), a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and double overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, supporting strong urban drivability and motorway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and Q5 (8R), the CBZA was engineered for balanced performance and fuel economy in compact and mid-size applications. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in certain markets, enabling Euro 4 and later Euro 5 compliance.
One documented reliability concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, noted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2011-03-01. This issue is linked to fuel contamination or inadequate filtration in early production units. From 2010, revised pump internals and updated fuel filter specifications were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 2008–2009 meet Euro 4 standards; 2010–2012 models comply with Euro 5 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CBZA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2008–2012). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 4 and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances real-world economy with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 4 (pre-2010); Euro 5 (2010–2012) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but demands strict maintenance to prevent EGR/DPF clogging and turbo actuator binding. VW 504 00/507 00 (5W-30) oil is essential due to its low-ash formulation protecting the DPF. Extended oil intervals increase soot loading and can trigger limp mode. The Bosch HPFP is sensitive to fuel quality; ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) is mandatory to prevent premature wear. EGR cooler inspections are recommended every 60,000 km to prevent carbon-induced flow restrictions. Post-2010 units benefit from revised HPFP internals and updated EGR valve calibration per Audi SIB 20 05 07.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 20 05 07). Replaces ACEA B4/C3 standards for DPF-equipped diesels.
Emissions: Euro 4 applies to pre-2010 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 5 compliance from 2010 varies by market and SCR fitment.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output remains consistent across markets with EU3+ diesel (Audi TIS Doc. A34800).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34120, A34502, SIB 20 05 07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CBZA was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for transverse applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised EGR routing in the Q5-and from 2010 the facelifted A4 B8 adopted updated ECU calibration and SCR integration in select markets, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A34120). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA189 series). Pre-2010 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2010 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from EA288: CBZA uses Bosch CRS 2-20 injection with round ECU connector, while EA288 uses CRS 3-20 with rectangular connector. Service parts require production date verification - HPFP and EGR valves for pre-2010 models are not interchangeable with later units (Audi SIB 20 05 07).
The CBZA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent short trips. Internal Audi quality reports from 2011 noted a significant share of pre-2010 units requiring HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show EGR-related faults contributing to emissions test failures. Extended oil intervals and low-quality diesel exacerbate fuel system and DPF stress, making adherence to VW 504 00 oil and EN 590 fuel standards critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2009-2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CBZA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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
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