The Audi CDNC is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). Delivering 105 kW (143 PS) in standard tune, it provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban driving and efficient highway cruising.
Fitted to models such as the A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and Q3 (8U), the CDNC engine was engineered for compact platform applications with a focus on fuel economy, emissions compliance, and responsive low-RPM performance. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in units subjected to extended service intervals or low-quality diesel. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2013-21-05, stems from inadequate lubrication under high-pressure conditions. From 2014, revised fuel system calibration and updated pump materials improved long-term reliability in SCR-equipped variants.
All CDNC engines comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CDNC is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and subcompact applications (2012–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and stable highway performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances real-world efficiency 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 | 105 kW (143 PS) | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, low wear risk) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 / 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 149 kg |
The CDNC delivers strong low-end torque suitable for urban and motorway use but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using VW 507 00 (5W-30) to maintain fuel pump and turbo longevity. The Bosch CRS 2.0 system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent HPFP wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular longer runs to avoid clogging; SCR-equipped models need AdBlue top-ups every 12,000 km. From 2014, updated fuel pump materials and revised ECU mapping improved reliability in Euro 5 applications. Pre-2014 models should be checked for EGR cooler integrity per Audi TSB 2013-21-05.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2012-10-05). Supersedes ACEA B4 and C3 standards.
Emissions: All CDNC engines comply with Euro 5 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across fuel grades meeting EN 590 (Audi Group PT-2022).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32077, A32503, SIB 2012-10-05, TSB 2013-21-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CDNC was used across Audi's 8X/8V/8U platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake tracts in the A1 and revised cooling layouts in the Q3-and from 2014 the facelifted A3 8V adopted enhanced SCR integration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A32092). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CDNC series). All units feature a trapezoidal EGR valve housing with integrated SCR dosing. Critical differentiation from earlier CBRA: CDNC uses Bosch EDC17CP56 ECU with 90-pin connector but features revised fuel mapping and SCR control logic. Service parts require production date verification—EGR coolers before 09/2013 are incompatible with post-2014 emissions systems (Audi TSB 2013-21-05).
The CDNC's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation, with elevated incidence in urban-driven vehicles with short-trip usage. Internal Audi quality reports from 2013 indicated a notable share of pre-2014 units requiring HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show EGR cooler failures contributing to emissions-related MOT failures. Extended oil intervals and low-quality diesel increase pump and EGR stress, making fluid quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CDNC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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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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