The Audi CDRA is a 1,968 cc, inline — four turbo — diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA288 engine family, designed as a refined successor to the EA189 series. 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, with improved emissions control and fuel efficiency over prior units.
Fitted to models such as t…
All CDRA production (2012–2018) meets Euro 6 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CDRA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2012–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances real-world economy with drivability and regulatory compliance.
| 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) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 3-20 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
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 Audi CDRA was used across Audi's 8V/B8/B9 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 Q3-and from 2015 the facelifted A4 B9 adopted updated ECU calibration and enhanced DPF regeneration logic in all markets, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CDRA's primary reliability risk is EGR valve and cooler clogging, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent short trips. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 noted a significant share of pre-2015 units requiring EGR cleaning or 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 DPF stress, making adherence to VW 504 00 oil and EN 590 fuel standards critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). 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 CDRA is generally reliable when maintained properly, with full Euro 6 compliance and improved EGR/DPF management over earlier EA189 engines. Pre-2015 units have a higher incidence of EGR clogging, but later models benefit from revised calibration. Regular oil changes with VW 504 00 spec oil and use of high-quality diesel are essential for longevity. Well-maintained engines can exceed 250,000 km without major issues.
Key issues include EGR valve/coolant clogging, turbo actuator sticking, DPF regeneration problems, and timing chain tensioner degradation. These are documented in Audi service bulletins and field reports. Using correct oil and fuel significantly reduces failure rates. AdBlue system integrity is also critical for emissions compliance.
The CDRA was used in the Audi A3 (8V, 2012–2018), A4 (B8/B9, 2012–2018), and Q3 (8U, 2012–2018) as the 2.0 TDI 140 PS variant. It is part of the EA288 engine family shared across Volkswagen Group brands. Always verify engine code via VIN or block stamping for compatibility.
Yes, the CDRA responds well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes typically achieve 170–185 PS safely, as the stock turbo and internals handle increased torque. However, ensure the DPF, EGR, and cooling systems are in good condition before tuning. Over-tuning without supporting mods risks DPF clogging and turbo failure.
Excellent. In an A4 2.0 TDI, combined consumption is ~4.7 L/100km (~60 mpg UK). Highway figures can reach 4.0 L/100km (~70 mpg UK). Real-world economy typically ranges 50–60 mpg UK depending on driving style. The engine's efficiency is supported by precise common-rail injection and low-friction design.
Yes. The CDRA is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, pistons can strike open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Maintaining proper oil levels and intervals is critical to ensure chain tensioner function and prevent failure.
The CDRA requires VW 504 00 or 507 00 specification oil, typically SAE 5W-30. This low-ash formulation is essential for DPF longevity. Change oil every 15,000 km or annually. Using non-compliant oil can lead to DPF blockage, increased emissions, and reduced engine life.
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
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
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