The Audi CTSA is a 1,968 cc, inline — four turbo — diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA189 engine family, designed for compact and mid — size applications. Featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and DOHC valvetrain, it delivers 120 kW (163 PS) with peak torque of 350 Nm available from 1,750 rpm.
Fitted to models including the Audi A3 (8V), A4 (B8), and A6 (C7), the CTSA was engineered for e…
All CTSA models comply with Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CTSA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2010–2016). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved highway performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances drivability with regulatory 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 | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1749V) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (timing belt for accessories) | |
Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Audi CTSA was used across Audi's 8V/B8/C7 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—modified intake manifolds in the A3 and revised cooling layouts in the A6—and from 2012 the facelifted A4 B8 models adopted updated ECU calibrations and enhanced DPF regeneration logic, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The CTSA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in urban driving cycles. Internal Audi field reports from 2013 indicated a significant number of pre-2012 units required HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows EGR/DPF clogging as a leading cause of emissions failure in city-driven vehicles. Frequent short trips and low-quality diesel increase fuel system stress, making fuel quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2010–2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2022). 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 CTSA offers solid performance and economy, but pre-2012 models are prone to high-pressure fuel pump wear, especially with poor fuel or short-trip driving. Later models (2013+) show improved fuel system durability. Regular maintenance using VW 504 00/507 00 oil and periodic EGR/DPF servicing greatly enhance longevity.
Key issues include high-pressure fuel pump failure, EGR and intake carbon buildup, turbo actuator sticking, and oil leaks from the valve cover. These are documented in Audi service bulletins. Fuel quality and maintenance intervals significantly influence reliability, particularly for the HPFP and emissions systems.
The CTSA was used in the Audi A3 (8V, 2010–2016), A4 (B8: 2010–2015), A6 (C7: 2011–2016), and Q5 (8R: 2012–2017). It was also shared across the Volkswagen Group in models like the VW Passat (B7/B8) and Škoda Superb. All applications feature 163 PS and 350 Nm output.
Yes. The CTSA responds well to ECU remapping, with safe gains of +30–40 kW (40–55 PS) achievable on stage 1. Stock internals handle increased torque, but supporting mods like upgraded intercooler and exhaust improve reliability. Tuning should be performed by specialists familiar with Bosch EDC17 systems.
Excellent. In an A4 B8 2.0 TDI, combined consumption is ~5.1 L/100km (~55 mpg UK). Highway runs can achieve ~4.4 L/100km (~64 mpg UK), while city driving may see ~6.3 L/100km (~45 mpg UK). Real-world figures depend on driving style, but 48–53 mpg UK is typical for mixed use.
Yes. The CTSA is an interference engine, meaning a timing chain or belt failure can result in piston-to-valve contact and severe internal damage. While the timing chain is generally durable, the accessory belt must be inspected regularly to prevent ancillary failure.
Audi specifies VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) synthetic oil. This low-ash formulation is critical for DPF longevity and turbocharger protection. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or one year, whichever comes first, to ensure fuel pump and chain lubrication.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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.
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