The Audi CRDB is a 1,968 cc, inline — four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2023 and 2026. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA288 Evo engine family, featuring aluminium construction, common rail direct injection, and dual overhead camshafts. Delivering 110 kW (150 PS) and 360 Nm of torque, it integrates a 48V mild — hybrid system (MHEV) to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions without compromising drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A4 (B9), A5…
Production years 2023–2026 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/10124).
The Audi CRDB is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine engineered for mainstream Audi models (2023–2026). It combines common rail injection with variable geometry turbocharging and a 48V MHEV system to deliver responsive torque and emissions compliance. Designed for Euro 6d-TEMP, it supports both city and highway driving profiles with active regeneration and AdBlue dosing.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged (variable geometry) | |
Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,000 rpm | |
Torque | 360 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 2,200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell VNT18) | |
Timing system | Chain (front-mounted; revised guide design post-2025) | |
Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 0W-20) | |
Dry weight | 146 kg |
The Audi CRDB 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 2025 the facelifted A4 adopted the CZRB variant with revised valve timing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CRDB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban short-trip use. Internal Volkswagen quality reports from 2025 indicated a significant number of pre-2025 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a notable portion of emissions-related MOT failures to DPF saturation in frequently cold-driven vehicles. Frequent cold starts and extended oil intervals increase HPFP and turbo stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2023–2026) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2024–2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CRDB delivers strong torque and good efficiency, but early models (2023–2024) had reliability concerns, especially high-pressure fuel pump failures. Later revisions (post-2025) improved HPFP durability, so well-maintained examples can be quite robust. Regular servicing and using high-quality oil (0W-20 VW 504 00) greatly aid longevity.
The biggest issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear (leading to misfires or stalling), turbo actuator sticking, and DPF saturation affecting regeneration. Other complaints include oil leaks from gaskets and occasional MHEV belt tensioner faults. These are well-documented in Volkswagen Group service bulletins.
This 2.0L diesel was used in the Audi A4 (B9), A5 (F5), A6 (C8), and Q5 (FY) between 2023 and 2026. All applications were designated 35 TDI or 40 TDI and met Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards. It was phased out in favour of the CZRB and CZJC variants in post-facelift models.
Yes. The EA288 Evo platform is tunable. ECU remaps can safely gain +25–35 kW on stage 1, as the stock internals handle increased torque. Aftermarket upgrades (intercooler, exhaust) can further boost output. Tuning should be done carefully with supporting modifications to avoid over-stressing the HPFP and turbo systems.
Excellent for its class. In an A4 35 TDI (2024), typical consumption is ~6.0 L/100km (city) and ~4.6 L/100km (highway), or about 51 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 48–56 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy CRDB engine.
Yes. The EA288 series (like most modern Audis) is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails, pistons can strike open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. Chain maintenance is critical—any warning rattles should be addressed immediately.
Audi specifies a 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting VW 504 00 (diesel) or 507 00 (multi-vehicle) specification. Always use a high-quality low-viscosity oil designed for turbocharged diesel engines and change it every 15,000 km or annually to ensure proper HPFP and chain lubrication and prevent sludge buildup.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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