The Audi DBKA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2021. It belongs to the EA288 evo engine family, designed for transverse applications in compact and mid-size Audi models. 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, with enhanced thermal efficiency and reduced particulate emissions.
Fitted to models such as the A3 (8V), A4 (B9), A6 (C7/C8), and Q5 (FY), the DBKA was engineered for responsive urban performance and efficient highway cruising. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and integrated selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, enabling full Euro 6c and later Euro 6d compliance across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation (HP-EGR) valve coking, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2016-10-05. Carbon buildup restricts valve movement and disrupts EGR flow calibration, leading to DPF regeneration issues. From 2018, revised EGR valve coatings and updated engine management software were introduced to improve deposit resistance.
Production years 2015–2018 meet Euro 6c standards; 2019–2021 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Audi DBKA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for transverse-mounted applications in compact and mid-size models (2015–2021). 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 6c and Euro 6d 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 | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c (pre-2019), Euro 6d (2019–2021) | |
| 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 | 148 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 HP-EGR system is prone to coking; cleaning every 60,000 km helps maintain airflow. Post-2018 models feature improved EGR valve coatings; pre-2018 units should be inspected for carbon buildup per Audi SIB 2016-10-05. 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 2016-10-05). Low-ash oil essential for aftertreatment longevity.
Emissions: Euro 6c applies to 2015–2018 models; Euro 6d certification from 2019 onward (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590 (Audi TIS Doc. A36024).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34723, A35104, SIB 2016-10-05
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi DBKA was used across Audi's 8V/B9/FY platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A3 and revised EGR routing in the Q5-and from 2019, full Euro 6d compliance with updated NOx sensors in A6 and Q5 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 A34723). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0 TDI EA288 series). Pre-2019 models have standard NOx sensors; post-2019 units feature updated sensors for Euro 6d compliance. Critical differentiation: DBKA has a Bosch EDC17CP55 ECU with 80-pin connector, while similar EA189 engines use EDC17CP14. Service parts require model-year verification—EGR valves before 2018 are incompatible with Euro 6d variants (Audi SIB 2016-10-05).
The DBKA's primary reliability risk is HP-EGR valve coking, with elevated incidence in urban driving with frequent cold starts. Internal Audi quality reports from 2017 noted a significant number of pre-2018 units requiring EGR valve cleaning before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA data links EGR-related faults to a notable share of emissions test failures. Short trips and poor maintenance increase carbon buildup, making regular inspection and software updates critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2015-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DBKA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with AUDI or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
AUDI Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
