The Audi CZVE is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It belongs to the EA288 engine family, engineered for transverse installation in compact and mid-size Audi models. Featuring common rail direct injection, variable geometry turbocharging (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 105 kW (143 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, with enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced particulate emissions.
Fitted to models such as the A1 (8X), A3 (8V), A4 (B8/B9), and Q3 (8U), the CZVE was designed for responsive urban performance and efficient highway operation. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in later variants, enabling Euro 5 and partial Euro 6 compliance across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under low-fuel conditions, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2014-09-03. Premature wear occurs due to inadequate lubrication when fuel levels remain consistently below one-quarter tank. From 2013, revised pump calibration and updated fuel system monitoring were implemented to improve durability.

Production years 2010–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models comply with Euro 6b (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi CZVE is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for transverse-mounted applications in compact and mid-size models (2010–2018). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances performance with 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 | 105 kW (143 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015), Euro 6b (2015–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (integrated into cylinder head) | |
| Oil type | VW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 146 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-RPM response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent EGR and turbo degradation. VW 504 00/507 00 oil is critical due to its low-ash formulation protecting DPF and SCR systems. Extended idling and short trips increase soot loading, necessitating regular highway runs for passive DPF regeneration. The EGR system is prone to coking; cleaning every 60,000 km helps maintain airflow. The HPFP is sensitive to low fuel levels; maintaining fuel above one-quarter tank prevents premature wear per Audi SIB 2014-09-03. SCR-equipped models require AdBlue top-ups every 12,000 km to maintain emissions compliance.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2014-09-03). Low-ash oil essential for aftertreatment longevity.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2010–2014 models; Euro 6b certification from 2015 onward (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590 (Audi TIS Doc. A36023).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34722, A35103, SIB 2014-09-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi CZVE was used across Audi's 8X/8V/B8 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A1 and revised EGR routing in the Q3-and from 2015, full Euro 6b compliance with SCR integration in A4 and Q3 variants created interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A34722). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0 TDI EA288 series). Pre-2015 models have a compact EGR cooler without SCR; post-2015 units feature an SCR module and AdBlue tank. Critical differentiation: CZVE has a Bosch EDC17CP55 ECU with 80-pin connector, while similar EA189 engines use EDC17CP14. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR coolers before 2015 are incompatible with SCR-equipped variants (Audi SIB 2014-09-03).
The CZVE's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear, with elevated incidence in drivers who frequently operate with low fuel levels. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 noted a significant number of pre-2015 units requiring HPFP replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data links fuel system faults to a notable share of emissions test failures. Short trips and poor maintenance increase thermal and lubrication stress, making fuel quality and regular inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012-2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI CZVE.
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