Engine Code

AUDI CUVC engine (2018-2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Audi CUVC diesel engine is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel unit produced between 2018 and 2023. It features common-rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). Delivering 96 kW (130 PS) in base tune and up to 110 kW (150 PS), with torque ranging from 320 Nm to 360 Nm, this engine was engineered for urban efficiency and responsive low-end performance in compact and mid-size Audi models.

Fitted across the A3 (8Y), A4 (B9), and Q3 (F3) ranges—including popular variants like the 2.0 TDI 130 PS and 150 PS—the CUVC engine was designed to meet strict Euro 6d emissions standards. Emissions compliance is achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, supported by integrated close-coupled NOx traps for real-world driving compliance (RDE).

One documented concern involves high-pressure fuel system sensitivity, particularly to fuel quality. This issue, referenced in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2019-05-12, highlights that non-compliant diesel (sulfur content >10 ppm or poor lubricity) accelerates wear in the Bosch CP4 high-pressure fuel pump. From 2020 onward, revised fuel filtration and updated injection calibration were introduced to mitigate pump failures and maintain long-term reliability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All CUVC models (2018–2023) meet Euro 6d emissions standards with RDE-compliant SCR-assisted aftertreatment (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).

CUVC Technical Specifications

The Audi CUVC diesel is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact and mid-size models (2018–2023). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable-geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with regulated environmental compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,968 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged (VGT)
Bore × stroke81.0 mm × 95.5 mm
Power output96–110 kW (130–150 PS)
Torque320–360 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CRS 2-20 (up to 2,000 bar), CP4 pump
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio16.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled
TurbochargerSingle variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell GT1749V)
Timing systemDouble-row roller chain (long-life design)
Oil typeAudi Longlife-05 (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weight166 kg
Practical Implications

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. The Bosch CP4 high-pressure fuel pump demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) with proper lubricity additives to avoid accelerated wear. SCR-equipped models require AdBlue top-ups every 10,000–15,000 km to maintain emissions compliance and prevent power derating. Fuel quality issues are the leading cause of CP4 pump failure; use of non-compliant diesel invalidates warranty per Audi SIB 2019-05-12.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-05 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2019-05-12). Replaces ACEA B4-08 and supersedes Longlife-04.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all CUVC models (2018–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). RDE testing ensures real-world compliance.

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 110 kW output requires EU5 diesel with enhanced lubricity (Audi TIS Doc. A36014).

Primary Sources

Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A35023, A36014, SIB 2019-05-12

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

CUVC Compatible Models

The Audi CUVC was used across Audi's 8Y/B9/F3 platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 (8Y) and revised EGR routing in the Q3 (F3)-and from 2018 the facelifted A4 B9 adopted RDE-compliant aftertreatment, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Audi
Years:
2018-2023
Models:
A3 (8Y)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 130 PS, 150 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2020
Make:
Audi
Years:
2018-2023
Models:
A4 (B9)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A35102
Make:
Audi
Years:
2019-2023
Models:
A5 (F5)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2020
Make:
Audi
Years:
2019-2023
Models:
Q3 (F3)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 130 PS, 150 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A35302
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A35052). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for CUVC series). All CUVC models feature SCR and an AdBlue tank; the fill port is located on the right rear fender. Critical differentiation from CTUA: CUVC uses updated ECU calibration for RDE compliance and integrated NOx traps. Service parts require production date verification—EGR coolers for pre-2020 Q3 models are not compatible with B9 A4 units due to revised plumbing (Audi SIB 2019-05-12).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Audi TIS Doc. A35052

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front of the engine block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS A35052).

Visual Cues:

  • All models: AdBlue fill port on right rear fender; black valve cover
  • Turbo: Honeywell GT1749V with top-mounted actuator
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2019-05-12

Fuel System:

CP4 high-pressure pump requires EN 590 diesel with lubricity additive; non-compliant fuel causes rapid wear.

Aftertreatment:

All CUVC models require SCR and AdBlue; retrofitting to non-SCR models is not supported.
Maintenance Recommendation

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2019-05-12

Fuel System:

Inspect fuel quality and replace filter every 15,000 km to protect CP4 pump.

Recommendation:

Use only OEM-specified diesel and follow Audi SIB 2019-05-12 guidelines to prevent high-pressure system failure.

Common Reliability Issues - AUDI CUVC

The CUVC's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (CP4) wear, with elevated incidence in regions with substandard diesel. Internal Audi service data from 2021 indicated over 20% of pre-2020 units required CP4 replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show fuel system faults contributing to emissions test failures. Poor fuel quality and extended service intervals increase pump wear, making fuel specification and filter changes critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (CP4) wear or failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, fuel pressure DTCs, erratic idle, fuel leakage near pump.
Cause: Internal wear due to fuel contamination or poor lubricity in non-EN 590 diesel; CP4 is more sensitive than CP3 to fuel quality.
Fix: Replace Bosch CP4 pump and fuel filter; flush system and verify fuel quality. Use only OEM-specified diesel and service filters on schedule.
Diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging
Symptoms: Restricted performance, increased fuel consumption, DPF regeneration warnings, excessive regeneration frequency.
Cause: Frequent short trips prevent passive DPF regeneration; incorrect oil or fuel quality increases soot loading.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration via diagnostics; if saturated, clean or replace DPF. Advise owner on driving patterns to support passive regeneration.
EGR and intake manifold carbon buildup
Symptoms: Rough idle, reduced power, EGR fault codes, frequent DPF regenerations, black smoke under load.
Cause: High soot load from EGR system combined with lower operating temperatures in urban cycles leads to deposit accumulation in intake runners and EGR valve.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR valve and intake manifold per Audi SIB 2019-05-12; update engine software and reset adaptations post-service.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Boost fluctuation, limp mode, over/under-boost DTCs, delayed throttle response.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical wear in the VGT actuator linkage, particularly in high-mileage or poorly maintained units.
Fix: Inspect and clean actuator linkage; replace if binding persists. Recalibrate via diagnostic system after repair.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2019-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about AUDI CUVC

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CUVC.

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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