The Audi CDLH is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It forms part of the EA288 engine family developed for transverse applications across the Volkswagen Group, featuring common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it produces 110 kW (150 PS) with peak torque of 340 Nm available from 1,750 rpm.
Fitted primarily to the A3 (8V), A4 (B9), and A6 (C8) platforms, the CDLH engine was engineered to deliver strong low-end response and improved emissions performance. It supports both front-wheel drive and quattro all-wheel drive configurations, and meets Euro 6b and later Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards through a combination of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2016-05-03. This issue primarily affects early-build units and is attributed to insufficient oil flow to the upper chain guide during cold starts. From 2017, revised tensioner and guide components were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2015–2018 meet Euro 6b standards; 2019–2020 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CDLH is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine engineered for compact and mid-size Audi models (2015–2020). It combines variable geometry turbocharging with common rail injection to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6b and Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards, it balances performance with strict environmental 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 | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b / Euro 6d-TEMP | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single BorgWarner VTG turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (rear-mounted; tensioner wear concern) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-04 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear and turbo 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 Bosch CRS 2-20 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent high-pressure pump failure. Post-2017 models feature updated chain guides; pre-2017 units should have the tensioner upgraded per Audi SIB 2016-05-03. EGR/DPF/SCR systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp-mode events.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-04 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2016-05-03). Supersedes ACEA C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to pre-2019 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). 2019–2020 models meet Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 110 kW output requires EN 590 diesel (Audi TIS Doc. A36030).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34740, A35230, A35620, SIB 2016-05-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CDLH was used across Audi's 8V/B9/C8 platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 8V A3 and revised cooling routing in the B9 A4-and from 2018 the facelifted B9 A4 Avant 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 A34910). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine variant ('C' for CDLH series). Pre-2017 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2017 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from CKRA: CDLH uses a BorgWarner VTG turbo with a vacuum-actuated wastegate, while CKRA uses an electrically controlled actuator. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 04/2017 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Audi SIB 2016-05-03).
The CDLH's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Internal Audi quality reports from 2017 indicated a notable share of pre-2017 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 (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CDLH.
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