Engine Code

AUDI CLJA engine (2021–2025) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Audi CLJA is a 1,984 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2025. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA888 Gen 4 engine family, featuring aluminium construction, direct fuel injection (TSI), and dual overhead camshafts. Delivering 169 kW (230 PS) and 370 Nm of torque, it integrates a 48V mild-hybrid system (MHEV) to enhance throttle response and reduce emissions.

Fitted to models such as the Audi A4 (B9), A5 (F5), and Q5 (FY), the CLJA engine was engineered for dynamic daily performance with improved real-world efficiency. Its emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and lean NOx trap technology, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP standards across its production run.

One documented concern is high-pressure fuel injector coking under short-trip driving conditions, highlighted in Volkswagen Group Technical Service Bulletin 2022-04-06. The issue stems from carbon buildup on injector tips due to frequent cold starts and low exhaust temperatures. From 2023, revised injector coatings and updated ECU fuel strategies were implemented to reduce deposit formation.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

Production years 2021–2025 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9801).

CLJA Technical Specifications

The Audi CLJA is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented Audi models (2021–2025). It combines TSI direct injection with twin-scroll turbocharging, a 48V mild-hybrid system (MHEV), and a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) to deliver strong torque and emissions compliance. Designed for Euro 6d-TEMP, it supports both city and highway driving profiles.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,984 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged (twin-scroll)
Bore × stroke82.5 mm × 92.8 mm
Power output169 kW (230 PS) @ 5,000–6,500 rpm
Torque370 Nm @ 1,600–4,300 rpm
Fuel systemBosch HDEV6 direct injection (up to 350 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d-TEMP
Compression ratio9.8:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle twin-scroll turbo (Honeywell GT1749V with e-actuator)
Timing systemChain (front-mounted; revised guide design post-2023)
Oil typeVW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 0W-20)
Dry weight114 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-scroll turbo and 48V MHEV system provide strong mid-to-high RPM power ideal for spirited driving but require strict adherence to 15,000 km or annual oil changes to prevent injector coking and turbo degradation. VW 504 00 (0W-20) oil is critical due to its low-viscosity formulation supporting the MHEV belt-driven starter-generator and chain lubrication. The HDEV6 fuel system demands high-octane petrol (RON 98 recommended) to prevent knock and injector coking. Post-2023 models feature upgraded injector coatings; pre-2023 units should follow VW TSB 2022-04-06 for inspection intervals. GPF longevity depends on regular highway runs to enable passive regeneration and prevent soot saturation.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 (0W-20) specification (Audi SIB 2023-05-09). Supersedes ACEA C5.

Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to all CLJA models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9801). No Euro 6c or earlier variant exists.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output requires RON 98 fuel for full performance and MHEV functionality (Audi TIS Doc. A15500).

Primary Sources

Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A15200, A15350, A15420, SIB 2023-05-09

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9801)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

CLJA Compatible Models

The Audi CLJA was used across Audi's B9/F5/FY platforms with longitudinal mounting and integrated MHEV control. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the Q5 and updated EGR calibration in the A5-and from 2023 the facelifted A4 adopted the CZJC variant with revised valve timing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Audi
Years:
2021–2025
Models:
A4 (B9)
Variants:
45 TFSI
View Source
Audi Group PT-2024
Make:
Audi
Years:
2021–2025
Models:
A5 (F5)
Variants:
45 TFSI
View Source
Audi Group PT-2024
Make:
Audi
Years:
2021–2025
Models:
Q5 (FY)
Variants:
45 TFSI
View Source
Audi Group PT-2024
Make:
Audi
Years:
2022–2025
Models:
A6 (C8)
Variants:
45 TFSI
View Source
Audi Group PT-2024
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A15220). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA888 2.0 TFSI). Pre-2023 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2023 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from CZJC: Original CLJA has Bosch MED 17.1.1 ECU with 80-pin connector, while CZJC uses MED 17.8.8 with 100-pin. Service parts require production date verification - fuel injectors and GPF assemblies for engines before 03/2023 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (VW TSB 2022-04-06).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Audi TIS Doc. A15220

Location:

Stamped vertically on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A15220).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2023: Silver valve cover with black plastic cam cover
  • Post-2023: All-black valve cover
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

VW TSB 2022-04-06

Fuel System:

High-pressure fuel injectors and GPF units for pre-2023 CLJA models are not compatible with post-facelift CZJC variants due to revised fuel mapping and emissions control per OEM documentation.

Timing Components:

Timing components revised in 2023 A4 facelift models. Pre-2023 kits fit only pre-LCI engines.
Injector Upgrade

Issue:

Early CLJA engines experienced fuel injector coking due to carbon buildup on injector tips from frequent cold starts and short-trip driving.

Evidence:

VW TSB 2022-04-06

Recommendation:

Install updated injectors per VW TSB 2022-04-06 and use RON 98 fuel to extend service life.

Common Reliability Issues - AUDI CLJA

The CLJA's primary reliability risk is fuel injector coking on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip use. Internal Volkswagen quality reports from 2023 indicated a significant number of pre-2023 engines requiring injector cleaning or replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to GPF saturation in frequently cold-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and extended oil intervals increase injector and turbo stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.

Fuel injector coking or failure
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires under load, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, check engine light.
Cause: Carbon buildup on injector tips due to low exhaust temperatures and frequent cold starts; early design sensitive to fuel quality and driving pattern.
Fix: Replace with latest OEM-specified injectors per service bulletin; perform ECU adaptation and fuel system cleaning after replacement.
Turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking
Symptoms: Loss of boost, limp-home under load, over/under-boost DTCs, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Carbon buildup or wear in the turbo actuator mechanism; early lever designs can bind under heat exposure.
Fix: Replace or update the actuator hardware per OEM procedure; confirm free movement and recalibrate boost control in diagnostics.
Gasoline particulate filter (GPF) clogging
Symptoms: Increased fuel consumption, reduced power, DPF regeneration frequency, check engine light.
Cause: Incomplete regeneration cycles due to frequent short trips; soot accumulation blocks exhaust flow.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration via diagnostics; if saturated, replace GPF assembly per OEM guidance and verify driving patterns.
Oil leaks from seals and gaskets
Symptoms: Oil smell, drips at bellhousing/undertray, residue around valve cover and timing cover.
Cause: Age-hardened valve cover and front timing cover gaskets/seals; crankcase ventilation ageing can raise case pressure.
Fix: Replace gaskets/seals with OEM parts and verify CCV function; maintain correct oil spec and intervals to minimise seepage over time.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2021–2025) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2022–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about AUDI CLJA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CLJA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

About EngineCode.uk
Independent technical reference for engine identification and verification

Platform Overview

Independent Technical Reference

EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with AUDI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.

Sourcing Policy

Strict Sourcing Protocol

Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.

No Unverified Sources

No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.

Transparency in Gaps

If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.

Regulatory Stability

EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.

Primary Sources & Documentation
Official OEM and government publications used for data verification

Primary Sources

AUDI Official Site

Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.

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)

UK type-approval authority for automotive products.

Official Documentation

Regulatory Compliance

Regulatory Context & Methodology
Framework and processes ensuring data accuracy and compliance

Regulatory Context

Regulation (EC) No 715/2007

Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.

Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151

WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.

GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval

UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.

VCA Certification Portal

Type-approval guidance and documentation.

Methodology

Data Compilation

All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.

Corrections & Submissions

To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk

Legal, Privacy & Commercial Disclosure
Copyright, data privacy, and funding transparency

Copyright & Legal

Fair Dealing Use

All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.

Copyright Concerns

For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk

Data Privacy

GDPR Compliance

EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.

Data Requests

For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk

Trademarks

Trademark Notice

All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.

Commercial Disclosure

No Paid Endorsements

This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.

Funding Model

Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.

Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.