The Audi DDCB is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2020 and 2023. It belongs to the EA288 Evo engine family, featuring high-pressure common-rail injection (up to 2,500 bar), variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual-loop exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). In standard configuration, it delivers 110 kW (150 PS) and 360 Nm of torque, meeting strict Euro 6d emissions standards with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) and AdBlue injection.
Fitted to models including the 8Y A3, B9.5 A4, and FY Q3, the DDCB was engineered for optimal balance between urban efficiency and motorway refinement. It supports 48V mild-hybrid (MHEV) technology in select applications, enabling torque-fill during acceleration and extended coasting in ECO mode. The combustion system is optimized for low particulate and NOx emissions, critical for compliance in low-emission zones (LEZ) across Europe.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) actuator follower, highlighted in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 61-16-01. This wear, linked to lubrication breakdown under sustained high load, can lead to fuel pressure instability and driveability issues. Audi recommends adherence to 15,000 km oil service intervals and use of VW 507 00-compliant 5W-30 oil to maintain fuel system integrity and turbocharger longevity.
All DDCB engines comply with Euro 6d (RDE) standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9405), including real-driving emissions certification.
The Audi DDCB is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine developed for compact and mid-size Audi platforms (2020–2023). It integrates SCR-AdBlue aftertreatment and 48V MHEV support to meet Euro 6d emissions standards. Designed for responsive performance and urban efficiency, it balances modern emissions control with driver engagement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 1,600–2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS4 high-pressure common rail (up to 2,500 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d (including RDE) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (BorgWarner) with electric actuator | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (double-row primary, toothed belt secondary) | |
| Oil type | VW 507 00 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 149 kg |
The SCR-AdBlue system provides excellent NOx control but requires strict adherence to oil change intervals to prevent HPFP actuator wear. Use of VW 507 00-compliant 5W-30 oil is essential for fuel pump and turbo longevity. Extended oil intervals beyond 15,000 km increase risk of premature HPFP failure. The 48V MHEV system improves fuel economy during coasting but requires proper battery conditioning and ECU calibration. The electric VGT actuator enables precise boost control but is sensitive to carbon buildup; periodic actuator cleaning is advised per Audi SIB 61-16-01. Coolant quality and system integrity are critical due to high thermal load from the integrated exhaust manifold.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 61-16-01). Compatible with ACEA C2 and C3 standards.
Emissions: All DDCB engines meet Euro 6d (RDE) standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9405).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A32088, A32110, A32145, SIB 61-16-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9405)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi DDCB was used across Audi's 8Y/B9.5 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Volkswagen Group brands under modular engine strategy. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated 48V MHEV in A4 and revised SCR dosing unit in Q3-and from 2021 the facelifted 8Y A3 adopted updated ECU mapping for improved cold-start emissions, creating software compatibility 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 A32090). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for DDCB). Pre-2021 models have a silver intake manifold with black plastic cam covers; post-2021 units use gloss black intake trims. Critical differentiation from EA288 Gen 1: DDCB features SCR-AdBlue system, 48V MHEV integration in select models, and electric VGT actuator. Service parts require model-year verification - ECU and turbo assemblies are not interchangeable between pre- and post-facelift variants due to emissions calibration differences (Audi SIB 61-16-01).
The DDCB's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) actuator wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. Internal Audi field reports from 2022 indicated a notable number of pre-2021 units requiring HPFP replacement before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows increased fuel system-related failures in high-mileage examples. Long motorway runs and low oil change frequency exacerbate wear, making oil quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2020-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DDCB.
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