Engine Code

AUDI CUVB engine (2015–2020) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Audi CUVB is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA288 evo engine family, it was designed for improved efficiency, lower emissions, and enhanced durability. Featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, meeting strict Euro 6 emissions standards with integrated SCR and AdBlue dosing.

Fitted to models such as the A4 (B9), A6 (C7), A7 (C7), and Q5 (FY), the CUVB was engineered for refined performance and real-world emissions compliance. Emissions control is achieved via high-pressure EGR, diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling full Euro 6b compliance across all markets from launch. The engine features revised piston design and low-pressure fuel return system to reduce oil dilution and improve combustion stability.

One documented concern is AdBlue dosing pump failure, identified in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2017-06-02. This issue arises from crystallisation in the dosing line or electrical fault in the pump motor, leading to SCR system malfunction and potential driveability restrictions. From 2018, Audi introduced an updated pump housing with improved sealing and revised control logic to reduce fault incidence.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2015–2020) meet Euro 6b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).

CUVB Technical Specifications

The Audi CUVB is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for mid-size and luxury models (2015–2020). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger and full SCR-based aftertreatment to deliver responsive torque and regulated emissions performance. Designed exclusively for Euro 6 compliance, it balances strong low-end pull with strict environmental requirements.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,968 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged (VGT)
Bore × stroke81.0 mm × 95.5 mm
Power output110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm
Torque340 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CRS 2-20 (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6b
Compression ratio16.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell)
Timing systemChain-driven (integrated in rear cover)
Oil typeVW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30)
Dry weight158 kg
Practical Implications

The CUVB provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for highway and urban driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals using VW 504 00/507 00 specification oil to maintain turbo and SCR system longevity. The AdBlue-based emissions system demands regular refills and active regeneration cycles; neglect can trigger limp mode. EGR and intake carbon buildup is common in short-trip driving, requiring periodic cleaning per Audi TIS A41277. Post-2018 models feature revised AdBlue pumps; pre-2018 units should be inspected for dosing faults. Use of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) is mandatory to prevent injector coking and fuel pump wear.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2015-08-01). Not compatible with ACEA A/B standards.

Emissions: Full Euro 6b compliance across all production years (2015–2020) per VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across markets; SCR-equipped models maintain torque in high-altitude conditions (Audi TIS A41277).

Primary Sources

Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A41277, SIB 2017-06-02

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5680)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

Volkswagen Group Product Technical Dossier PT-Diesel2016

CUVB Compatible Models

The Audi CUVB was used across Audi's B9/C7/FY platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for premium applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling layouts in the Q5 and enhanced NVH tuning in the A7-and from 2018 the facelifted A4 B9.5 adopted updated engine management calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Audi
Years:
2015–2020
Models:
A4 (B9)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2018
Make:
Audi
Years:
2015–2018
Models:
A6 (C7)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A41277
Make:
Audi
Years:
2015–2018
Models:
A7 (C7)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2018
Make:
Audi
Years:
2017–2020
Models:
Q5 (FY)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A41277
Make:
Volkswagen
Years:
2015–2020
Models:
Passat (B8)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS (CUVD variant)
View Source
VW ETK EA288-003
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A41277). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for CUVB series). All CUVB engines feature an AdBlue tank and SCR dosing module on the exhaust. Critical differentiation from CTCB: CUVB has revised ECU calibration, SCR integration, and low-pressure fuel return system. Service parts require production date verification—AdBlue pumps before 06/2018 are incompatible with post-revision units due to internal redesign (Audi SIB 2017-06-02).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Audi TIS Doc. A41277

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A41277).

Visual Cues:

All models feature AdBlue filler (left rear) and SCR dosing module on exhaust near DPF.
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2017-06-02

S C R System:

AdBlue dosing pumps for pre-2018 CUVB models are not compatible with post-2018 SCR-equipped variants due to revised electrical connectors and control logic.

Fuel System:

High-pressure fuel pump (Bosch CP3) is shared with EA288 family but calibrated differently; cross-use not recommended without ECU adaptation.
AdBlue Pump Upgrade

Issue:

Early CUVB engines experienced AdBlue dosing pump failure due to electrical motor degradation and crystallisation in the nozzle.

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2017-06-02

Recommendation:

Inspect for SCR warning lights; replace with updated part per Audi SIB 2017-06-02 if fault is detected.

Common Reliability Issues - AUDI CUVB

The CUVB's primary reliability risk is AdBlue dosing pump failure on pre-2018 units, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway driving. Audi internal quality reports from 2019 noted increased SCR-related fault codes in vehicles with infrequent long drives, while UK DVSA data links AdBlue system faults to over 22% of diesel-related MOT advisories. Crystallisation and electrical degradation amplify stress, making regular inspection and proper fluid use critical.

AdBlue dosing pump failure
Symptoms: SCR warning light, reduced power mode, failed cold starts, error codes related to dosing module or NOx sensors.
Cause: Crystallisation in dosing nozzle, failed pump motor, or electrical connector corrosion in pre-2018 variants.
Fix: Diagnose with VCDS; replace dosing unit per Audi SIB 2017-06-02; refill with ISO 22241-compliant AdBlue and reset system.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, erratic throttle response, DTCs for boost control deviation, black smoke under load.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical wear in VGT actuator linkage; vacuum diaphragm degradation over time.
Fix: Clean or replace actuator mechanism; recalibrate via diagnostic tool and inspect for boost leaks.
Intake manifold and EGR valve coking
Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, EGR-related fault codes, frequent DPF regenerations.
Cause: Oil and soot accumulation in EGR valve and intake runners, restricting flow and impairing valve motion.
Fix: Remove and clean EGR valve and intake manifold; renew vacuum lines and perform system adaptation reset.
High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear
Symptoms: Hard starting, misfires, loss of power, fuel pressure DTCs, excessive cranking.
Cause: Internal wear in Bosch CP3 pump due to fuel quality issues or extended service intervals.
Fix: Replace with OEM-specified HPFP; flush fuel system and verify low-pressure supply before installation.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about AUDI CUVB

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CUVB.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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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“ .

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