The Audi CDUD is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2008 and 2013. It forms part of the Volkswagen Group's EA189 engine family, featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, with consistent performance across multiple vehicle platforms.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), A6 (C6/C7), and Q5 (8R), the CDUD was engineered for balanced driving dynamics, combining responsive low-end torque with highway refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in certain markets, meeting Euro 5 standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is premature EGR cooler failure due to carbon buildup and thermal stress, highlighted in Audi Service Bulletin 2011-03-01 (Ref. 2011-03-01). This issue can lead to coolant contamination and engine overheating. From 2011, revised EGR coolers with improved internal flow geometry were introduced to enhance durability.

Production years 2008–2013 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CDUD is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2008–2013). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive torque and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (VGT) | |
| 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 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 (Garrett GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 180,000 km or 10 years) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and motorway driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000–20,000 km service intervals to prevent EGR and DPF clogging. VW 504 00/507 00 oil is essential for turbo and injector longevity. Extended idling and short trips accelerate soot accumulation, increasing DPF regeneration frequency. The Bosch CRS 2.0 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent high-pressure pump wear. EGR cooler failures are documented pre-2011; replacement with updated unit per Audi SIB 2011-03-01 is recommended. Timing belt service must be performed proactively to avoid interference engine damage.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2011-03-01). Compatible with ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2008–2013) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). SCR-equipped variants available in EU markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across EU markets with EN 590 fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A35109).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34712, A35109, SIB 2011-03-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Audi CDUD was used across Audi's 8P, B7/B8, and C6/C7 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Q5 and revised cooling layouts in the A6—and from 2012 the facelifted A4 B8.5 adopted updated EGR and DPF calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing belt cover (Audi TIS A34712). The 7th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('C' for CDUD series). Pre-2011 models have a silver valve cover with a black EGR manifold; post-2011 units feature a revised EGR cooler with dual coolant lines. Critical differentiation from EA189 variants: CDUD uses Bosch CRS 2.0 injection with EDC17 ECU, while later EA288 engines use piezo injectors. Service parts require production date verification—EGR coolers before 06/2011 are incompatible with updated designs per Audi SIB 2011-03-01.
The CDUD's primary reliability risk is EGR cooler failure on pre-2011 units, with elevated incidence in urban and stop-start driving. Internal Audi field reports from 2012 indicated a significant number of early failures before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows coolant-related engine faults as a leading cause of failure in TDI models. Short journeys and infrequent regeneration cycles increase soot accumulation, making proactive maintenance and use of correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2008–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2013–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CDUD.
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