The Audi CFFB is a 1,798 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features direct fuel injection (FSI), turbocharging, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust. In standard output form, it delivers 125 kW (170 PS), with torque peaking at 250 Nm between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm, providing strong mid-range responsiveness.
Fitted to models such as the 8V A3, 8W A4, B9 A5, and 3G A6, the CFFB engine was engineered for a balance of performance and efficiency in compact and mid-size platforms. It meets Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards through precise direct injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and a three-way catalytic converter. The engine’s design emphasizes responsiveness for daily driving while supporting mild hybrid technologies in later variants.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, particularly in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips and extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Bulletin 2015-13-03, is linked to inadequate oil pressure buildup during cold starts, leading to increased chain guide wear. From 2016 onward, Audi introduced revised tensioner components and updated oil service intervals to mitigate the risk.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2019 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CFFB is a 1,798 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine designed for compact and mid-size models (2012–2019). It combines FSI direct injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive mid-range torque and efficient fuel consumption. Engineered to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory compliance across European markets.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Audi FSI direct injection (up to 150 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (2015–2019) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; tensioner wear reported) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The single-scroll turbo provides strong mid-range pull ideal for urban and highway driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) to prevent timing chain tensioner wear. Cold-start idling should be minimized to ensure rapid oil pressure buildup and reduce guide stress. Direct injection increases carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic walnut blasting or intake cleaning. Post-2016 models feature updated tensioner hardware; pre-2016 units should be inspected per Audi SB 2015-13-03. EGR and catalytic converter systems require regular operation above 2,500 rpm to prevent coking and maintain efficiency.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-01 (5W-40) specification (Audi SB 2015-13-03). Supersedes ACEA A3/B4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789). 2015–2019 models meet Euro 6 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output achieved with 98 RON fuel (Audi TIS Doc. A33600).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A33010, A33500, A33600, SB 2015-13-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CFFB was used across Audi's 8V/8W/3G platforms with transverse mounting and integrated start-stop functionality. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the A6 and revised intake manifolds in the A3—and from 2017 the facelifted A4 B9.5 adopted revised EGR routing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A33050). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for CFFB series). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2016 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 3: CFFB uses Bosch MED 17.5.25 ECU with trapezoidal diagnostic port, while EA888 Gen 3 uses EDC17CP56 with round port. Service parts require production date verification—timing kits for engines before 09/2015 are incompatible with later units due to tensioner redesign (Audi SB 2015-13-03).
The CFFB's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent cold starts. Internal Audi quality reports from 2016 noted a significant share of pre-2016 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 130,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to EGR clogging in stop-start traffic. Short-trip cycles and extended oil intervals increase chain and guide stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2014-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CFFB.
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