Engine Code

AUDI CBZB engine (2010–2018) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Audi CBZB is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, designed for balanced performance and efficiency in Audi's compact and mid-size lineup.

Fitted to models such as the A3 (8V), A4 (B8), and A6 (C7), the CBZB engine was engineered for drivers seeking responsive low-end torque and quiet operation. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in later models, enabling Euro 5 compliance (2010–2015) and Euro 6 compliance (2015–2018) depending on model year and market.

One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, highlighted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2013-15-01. Premature wear is linked to fuel quality and extended service intervals. From 2015, revised pump calibration and updated injector control strategies were implemented to improve durability in Euro 6 variants.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2010–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

CBZB Technical Specifications

The Audi CBZB 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 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,968 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged (VGT)
Bore × stroke81.0 mm × 95.5 mm
Power output103 kW (140 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm
Torque320 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 5 (2010–2015); Euro 6d-TEMP (2015–2018)
Compression ratio16.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V)
Timing systemChain-driven (double-row, front-mounted)
Oil typeAudi Longlife-05 (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weight168 kg
Practical Implications

The CBZB provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban and motorway driving, but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife-05 (5W-30) oil to ensure timing chain and turbo longevity. The Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent HPFP wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular long-distance driving to prevent clogging. Post-2015 Euro 6 models include SCR with AdBlue injection, necessitating periodic tank refills. Cold starts should be minimized to reduce thermal stress on the turbo and EGR cooler.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-05 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2012-08-03). Supersedes ACEA B4 and C3 standards.

Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2010–2015 models; Euro 6d-TEMP certification for 2015–2018 units (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output remains consistent across markets; no derating observed in hot climates (Audi TIS Doc. A35012).

Primary Sources

Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35012, A35105, A35200, SIB 2013-15-01

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)

ISO 8854:2020 Road vehicles — Compression-ignition engines — Vocabulary

CBZB Compatible Models

The Audi CBZB was used across Audi's 8V/B8/C7 platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive models and longitudinal in quattro variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the A6 (C7) and revised intake manifolds in the A3 (8V)—and from 2015 the Euro 6 update introduced SCR and AdBlue injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Audi
Years:
2013–2018
Models:
A3 (8V)
Variants:
35 TDI
View Source
Audi Group PT-2020
Make:
Audi
Years:
2010–2015
Models:
A4 (B8)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 140 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2020
Make:
Audi
Years:
2011–2018
Models:
A6 (C7)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 140 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A35901
Make:
Audi
Years:
2010–2017
Models:
Q5 (8R)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 140 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2020
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A35012). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CBZB series). Pre-2015 models have a silver valve cover with a black plastic intake; post-2015 units feature a black valve cover and integrated AdBlue dosing module. Critical differentiation from EA288 engines: CBZB uses a Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel system and lacks a dual-loop EGR system. Service parts require model-year verification—DPF and EGR components pre- and post-2015 are not interchangeable due to SCR integration (Audi SIB 2015-06-02).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Audi TIS Doc. A35012

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A35012).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2015: Silver valve cover, no AdBlue tank
  • Post-2015: Black valve cover, AdBlue filler behind fuel cap
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2015-06-02

Fuel System:

Bosch CRS 2.0 HPFP used throughout production; no known revisions affecting compatibility.

Emissions System:

Euro 6 models (2015+) include SCR and AdBlue injection; components are not compatible with Euro 5 variants.
HPFP Wear Mitigation

Issue:

High-pressure fuel pump wear reported in models with extended service intervals or poor fuel quality.

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2013-15-01

Recommendation:

Use only EN 590 diesel; replace HPFP and fuel filters per Audi SIB 2013-15-01 if performance issues arise.

Common Reliability Issues - AUDI CBZB

The CBZB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in urban-driven vehicles with short trips. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 noted increased HPFP failures in units with oil change intervals exceeding 15,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a significant share of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR/DPF clogging. Frequent cold starts and low-quality diesel exacerbate fuel system stress, making fuel quality and service adherence critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, excessive smoke, fuel pressure DTCs, rough idle.
Cause: Internal wear in Bosch CRS 2.0 pump due to contaminated fuel or extended service intervals beyond 15,000 km.
Fix: Replace HPFP and fuel filters using OEM parts; flush fuel system and verify injection timing per Audi SIB 2013-15-01.
EGR and DPF clogging
Symptoms: Limp mode, increased regeneration frequency, black smoke, reduced fuel economy.
Cause: Carbon buildup in EGR valve and passages; soot accumulation in DPF due to frequent short trips and low exhaust temperatures.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve and cooler; perform forced regeneration or DPF cleaning; ensure regular highway driving.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Boost fluctuation, DTCs for boost control, reduced throttle response.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical wear in VGT actuator linkage, especially in high-mileage units.
Fix: Inspect and clean actuator arm; replace turbocharger assembly if binding persists per Audi TIS A35105.
Timing chain tensioner wear
Symptoms: Rattling noise at cold start, cam timing correlation faults, oil consumption.
Cause: Wear in hydraulic tensioner due to oil degradation or extended service intervals.
Fix: Replace tensioner and guides with updated OEM kit; verify oil flow and pressure post-repair.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about AUDI CBZB

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CBZB.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

About EngineCode.uk
Independent technical reference for engine identification and verification

Platform Overview

Independent Technical Reference

EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with AUDI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.

Sourcing Policy

Strict Sourcing Protocol

Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.

No Unverified Sources

No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.

Transparency in Gaps

If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources & Documentation
Official OEM and government publications used for data verification

Primary Sources

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.

Official Documentation

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory Context & Methodology
Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

Regulatory Context

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.

Methodology

Data Compilation

All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.

Corrections & Submissions

To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk

Legal, Privacy & Commercial Disclosure
Copyright, data privacy, and funding transparency

Copyright & Legal

Fair Dealing Use

All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.

Copyright Concerns

For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk

Data Privacy

GDPR Compliance

EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.

Data Requests

For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk

Trademarks

Trademark Notice

All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.

Commercial Disclosure

No Paid Endorsements

This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.

Funding Model

Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.

Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.