The Audi DBGA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2013 and 2019. It features common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). Delivering 85 kW (116 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, it was engineered for entry-level efficiency and urban drivability, meeting Euro 5 and later Euro 6 emissions standards through optimized combustion and exhaust aftertreatment.
Fitted to models such as the A1 (8X), A3 (8V), and Q3 (8U), the DBGA engine was designed for compact applications where fuel economy and low ownership costs were prioritized. Emissions control included exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and from 2015 onward, selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in certain markets to meet Euro 6 compliance, ensuring broad regulatory acceptance across European and UK type-approved configurations (VCA/EMS/7890).
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) sensitivity to fuel quality, noted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2014-20-03. Premature wear was linked to inadequate filtration and low-lubricity diesel in early 2013–2015 units. From 2016, Audi introduced revised HPFP components and updated fuel system calibration to improve durability.
Production years 2013–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2019 models comply with Euro 6 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi DBGA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for compact models (2013–2019). It combines common-rail direct injection with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and later Euro 6 emissions standards, it balances urban 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 | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–2,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common-rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2013–2015); Euro 6 (2016–2019, market-dependent) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Garrett GT1544V) | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (double-row, front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife 05 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The VGT turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife 05 (5W-30) to ensure longevity of the high-pressure fuel pump and turbocharger. Ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD, EN 590) is essential to prevent HPFP wear and injector coking. EGR and DPF systems require regular regeneration; prolonged short trips may lead to clogging and limp mode. Post-2016 models feature revised HPFP and updated ECU calibration, reducing failure incidence. SCR-equipped models (2016+) require AdBlue top-ups and periodic NOx sensor diagnostics.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife 05 (5W-30) specification (Audi SIB 2014-20-03). Supersedes ACEA B4 and C3 standards.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2013–2015 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890). Euro 6 certification valid for 2016–2019 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities due to closed-loop injection control (Audi TIS Doc. A32177).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32177, SIB 2014-20-03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi DBGA was used across Audi's 8X/8V platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Volkswagen and Škoda applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—modified intake routing in the A1 and revised cooling in the Q3—and from 2016 the facelifted A3 8V.5 adopted Euro 6-compliant variants with SCR systems, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Volkswagen's 1.6 TDI CR and Škoda's 1.6 TDI to use identical core architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A32177). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('B' for DBGA series). Pre-2016 models have a Bosch CP3 high-pressure fuel pump; post-2016 units use a revised CP3.3 with improved sealing. Critical differentiation from EA288: DBGA uses a single VGT turbo (Garrett GT1544V), while EA288 variants may feature twin-scroll or e-VGT. Service parts require production date verification — fuel pumps and ECU variants differ significantly between 2013–2015 and 2016+ builds (Audi SIB 2014-20-03).
The DBGA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent short trips. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 indicated a significant number of pre-2016 units required HPFP replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data links DPF clogging to stop-start driving in city environments. Poor fuel quality and extended service intervals increase pump and injector stress, making fuel filtration and oil change adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DBGA.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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