The Audi CULC is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2018. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA288 engine family, it delivers 85 kW (116 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, emphasizing fuel efficiency, low emissions, and smooth operation. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and a DOHC 16-valve configuration for compact performance.
Fitted to models such as the A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and Q3 (8U), the CULC was engineered for entry-level diesel performance with strong low-end torque and low CO₂ output. Emissions control is achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) on certain variants, enabling Euro 5 and Euro 6 compliance across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load conditions. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2013-10, is associated with inadequate lubrication in early CP4-based pumps. From 2014 onward, revised Bosch CP4 units with improved internal coatings and filtration were introduced to enhance durability.
Production years 2011–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi CULC is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact platforms (2011–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient city driving. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it balances real-world economy 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 | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (post-2015) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, low wear risk) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 147 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires consistent use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to protect the high-pressure fuel system. VW 507 00 (5W-30) oil is essential for maintaining injector and pump longevity, with oil changes recommended every 15,000 km or annually. The Bosch CP4 fuel pump is sensitive to poor fuel quality, risking premature wear. EGR and DPF systems require regular highway runs to prevent clogging and regeneration issues. No major timing chain concerns exist, but vacuum-operated EGR valves may stick over time and should be inspected during service intervals.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2013-10). Supersedes ACEA B4 and C3.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to pre-2015 models; Euro 6 applies to 2015–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across markets with EU diesel (Volkswagen Group PT-2012).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35810, A35811, A35812, SIB 2013-10
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CULC was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised cooling routing in the Q3-and from 2015 the facelifted A3 8V adopted Euro 6-compliant emissions calibration, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A35812). The 7th digit of the VIN indicates engine type ('C' for EA288 series). Pre-2014 units have a Bosch EDC17CP50 ECU with a 144-pin connector; post-2014 models use updated firmware. Critical differentiation from EA189: CULC uses a CP4 pump and updated EGR/DPF calibration, while EA189 features CP3 and earlier emissions control. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR coolers and intake manifolds differ between A1 and Q3 applications (Audi SIB 2012-30).
The CULC's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles using substandard diesel. Internal Audi field reports from 2014 noted increased HPFP failures in pre-2014 builds, while UK DVSA MOT data shows EGR-related faults are common in urban-driven examples. Extended idling and poor fuel quality accelerate pump and injector wear, making fuel specification and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2015) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CULC.
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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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