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)…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CDLH delivers strong performance and responsiveness, but early models (2015–2017) had reliability concerns, particularly timing chain failures. Later revisions (post-2017) improved chain durability, so well-maintained examples can be quite robust. Regular servicing and using high-quality oil (5W-30 Audi Longlife-04) greatly aid longevity.
The biggest issues are timing-chain wear (leading to rattle or breakage), turbo actuator failures, and intake carbon buildup affecting EGR and swirl flaps. Other complaints include oil leaks from gaskets and occasional injector faults. These are well-documented in Audi service bulletins and technical reports.
This 2.0L TDI engine was used in several Audi models including the 8V A3, B9 A4, C8 A6, and FY Q5. It forms part of the EA288 diesel family and was used in Euro 6b and Euro 6d-TEMP-compliant vehicles. Applications span 2015–2020, primarily in front-wheel drive and quattro configurations. It was not used outside the Audi/VW Group.
Yes. The CDLH is highly tunable. ECU remaps safely gain +30–50 kW on stage 1, as the stock internals handle torque well. Aftermarket upgrades (larger turbo, intercooler, exhaust) can push power further. Enthusiasts frequently remap A4 and Q5 models for sharper response. Tuning should be done carefully with supporting mods to avoid overstressing components.
Excellent. In an A4 2.0 TDI (110 kW) from 2016, typical consumption is ~6.2 L/100km (city) and ~4.3 L/100km (highway), or about 55 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 50–60 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy CDLH. Turbo efficiency and low-RPM torque improve highway economy.
Yes. The CDLH series is an interference engine. If the timing chain jumps or breaks, pistons can collide with open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. That's why chain maintenance is critical—any rattling at startup should be investigated immediately.
Audi specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Audi Longlife-04 (or newer) spec. Always use a quality oil designed for turbocharged diesel engines and change it every 15,000 km or as Audi recommends to ensure proper chain lubrication and minimize carbon buildup.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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