The Audi CTCC diesel engine is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel unit produced between 2008 and 2015. It features common-rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). Delivering 103 kW (140 PS) in base tune and up to 125 kW (170 PS) in higher outputs, with torque ranging from 320 Nm to 350 Nm, this engine was engineered for responsive mid-range performance and fuel efficiency in compact and mid-size Audi models.
Fitted across the A3 (8P), A4 (B7/B8), and A6 (C6/C7) ranges—including popular variants like the 2.0 TDI 140 PS and 170 PS—the CTCC engine was designed for balanced everyday driving, blending motorway refinement with urban economy. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in later units, meeting Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented concern involves early EGR and intake manifold carbon buildup, particularly in stop-start urban driving cycles. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2013-01-07, stems from high soot recirculation rates and cooler operating temperatures. From 2012 onward, revised EGR cooling strategies and updated engine management software were introduced to mitigate deposit accumulation and maintain airflow efficiency.
Production years 2008–2010 meet Euro 5 standards; 2011–2015 models maintain Euro 5 compliance with SCR-assisted aftertreatment depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Audi CTCC diesel is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2008–2015). 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 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulated environmental 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 | 103–125 kW (140–170 PS) | |
| Torque | 320–350 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell GT1749V) | |
| Timing system | Double-row roller chain (long-life design) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-05 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 162 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM pull ideal for city driving but requires regular DPF regeneration cycles to prevent clogging in short-trip usage. Audi Longlife-05 (5W-30) oil is essential to maintain timing chain lubrication and prevent sludge buildup in the crankcase ventilation (CCV) system. Extended idling and cold starts increase EGR soot accumulation, so periodic cleaning of the intake manifold and EGR valve is recommended per Audi SIB 2013-01-07. The Bosch CP3 pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to avoid high-pressure system wear. SCR-equipped models post-2012 require AdBlue top-ups to maintain emissions compliance and prevent power derating.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-05 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2013-01-07). Replaces ACEA B4-08 and supersedes Longlife-04.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all CTCC models (2008–2015) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). SCR-equipped variants require AdBlue monitoring.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 125 kW output requires EU3+ diesel (Audi TIS Doc. A36012).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35021, A36012, SIB 2013-01-07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CTCC was used across Audi's 8P/B7/B8 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 (8P) and revised EGR routing in the A4 B8-and from 2012 the facelifted A6 C7 adopted SCR-based aftertreatment, creating interchange limits. 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 exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A35050). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for CTCC series). Pre-2012 models lack SCR and AdBlue tanks; post-2012 C7 models feature SCR underbody tanks. Critical differentiation from EA189: CTCC uses a Honeywell GT1749V turbo with top-mounted actuator, while EA189 units use smaller BorgWarner turbos. Service parts require production date verification—EGR coolers for pre-2010 B7 models are not compatible with B8 units due to revised plumbing (Audi SIB 2013-01-07).
The CTCC's primary reliability risk is EGR and intake carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Internal Audi service data from 2014 indicated over 30% of pre-2012 units required EGR cleaning before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show intake-related faults contributing to emissions test failures. Stop-start driving and cooler climates increase soot accumulation, making proactive maintenance and correct oil usage critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CTCC.
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