The Audi CFSA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA288 engine family, designed for improved efficiency and emissions compliance over its predecessors. Featuring common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, with integrated start-stop and brake energy recuperation systems enhancing real-world fuel economy.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A3 (8V), A4 (B9), and Q5 (FY), including the 2.0 TDI 150 PS variants, the CFSA was engineered for responsive performance, strong low-end torque, and motorway refinement. Emissions compliance is achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling full Euro 6b compliance across all model years.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2016-02-01, stems from inadequate lubrication under prolonged high-load operation. From 2017, Audi introduced revised HPFP calibration and updated oil monitoring algorithms to mitigate premature wear.
All production years (2015–2020) comply with Euro 6b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CFSA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size SUVs (2015–2020). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it balances emissions compliance with real-world drivability.
| 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 | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 169 kg |
The CFSA delivers strong low-RPM torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires consistent use of VW 504 00/507 00 (5W-30) oil to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and turbocharger. Extended oil intervals increase the risk of HPFP wear, particularly under high-load conditions. AdBlue-equipped models require periodic refills and SCR system diagnostics. The roller chain timing system is robust and typically maintenance-free, though tensioner wear may occur beyond 200,000 km in poorly maintained units. Always use ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent fuel system damage.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2015-03-01). Compatible with ACEA C3 standards.
Emissions: All models (2015–2020) comply with Euro 6b standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across EU markets with EN 590 diesel (Audi TIS Doc. A34802).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34800, A34801, A34802, SIB 2016-02-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
Volkswagen Group Product Bulletin PT-Diesel2016
The Audi CFSA was used across Audi's 8V/B9/FY platforms with transverse mounting in front-wheel-drive models and longitudinal in quattro variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated start-generator (ISG) in mild-hybrid variants from 2018-and from 2015 all models adopted SCR/AdBlue systems, ensuring consistent Euro 6b compliance. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A34805). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for CFSA series). All CFSA engines feature a blue AdBlue filler cap on the right rear fender, confirming SCR/AdBlue integration. Critical differentiation: CFSA has a Bosch CRS 2-20 fuel system and Garrett GT1749V turbo; earlier CEPB engines use different turbo and EGR configurations. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR manifolds and DPFs are not interchangeable between Euro 5 and Euro 6 models (Audi SIB 2016-02-01).
The CFSA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended service intervals. Internal Audi field reports from 2018 indicated a significant number of pre-2017 units required HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows DPF-related failures are common in short-trip diesel vehicles. Prolonged high-load operation and incorrect oil can accelerate pump wear, making correct lubricant selection and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2016-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CFSA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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