The Audi CDUC 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 output form, it delivers 103 kW (140 PS), with higher outputs reaching 120 kW (163 PS) and torque between 320–400 Nm.
Fitted to models such as the 8K A3, 8P A4, B8 A5, and 3C A6, the CDUC engine was engineered for balanced performance, fuel economy, and low-end torque for daily driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in later models, enabling Euro 5 and Euro 6 compliance depending on model year and market.
One documented reliability concern is premature timing chain wear, particularly in early production units (2010–2013). This issue, referenced in Audi Service Bulletin 2013-11-01, is linked to inadequate lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts. From 2014 onward, Audi introduced revised tensioners and updated oil change intervals to mitigate the risk.
Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CDUC 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 single variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances strong drivability with 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 | 103–120 kW (140–163 PS) | |
| Torque | 320–400 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; wear-prone in early builds) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-04 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 155 kg |
The single 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 critical due to its specific formulation protecting the front-mounted chain system. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce oil starvation at the upper chain guide. The Bosch CP4 fuel pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent high-pressure pump failure. Post-2014 models feature revised chain guides; pre-2014 units should have the tensioner upgrade per Audi SB 2013-11-01. 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 SB 2013-11-01). Supersedes ACEA C3 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 120 kW output requires EU3+ fuel quality (Audi TIS Doc. A32600).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32010, A32500, A32600, SB 2013-11-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CDUC was used across Audi's 8K/8P/3C platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the A6 and revised intake manifolds in the A3-and from 2015 the facelifted A4 B8.5 adopted SCR-based aftertreatment, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A32050). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for CDUC series). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2014 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA288: CDUC uses Bosch EDC17CP56 ECU with round diagnostic port, while EA288 uses EDC17CP74 with trapezoidal port. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/2013 are incompatible with later units due to guide rail redesign (Audi SB 2013-11-01).
The CDUC's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2014 noted a significant share of pre-2014 engines requiring chain repair before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable 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 (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CDUC.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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