The Audi DDCA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It belongs to the EA288 engine family, featuring modular diesel engine system (MDB) architecture, common rail direct injection, and dual-loop exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). In standard tune it delivers 103 kW (140 PS) and 320 Nm of torque, primarily used in compact and mid-size platforms requiring compliance with stringent emissions standards.
Fitted to models such as the 8V A3, 8S S3, and 8C TT, the DDCA was engineered for responsive performance and low CO₂ output. Emissions compliance was achieved through a combination of high-pressure EGR, cooled low-pressure EGR, and a NOx storage catalyst (NSC), allowing the engine to meet Euro 5b and early Euro 6b standards across European markets without requiring selective catalytic reduction (SCR) in certain variants.
One documented concern is premature high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under high-load operation, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 01 14 41. Insufficient lubrication due to marginal fuel quality was linked to plunger and cam lobe degradation. From 2015, revised HPFP calibration and updated fuel system diagnostics were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 2013–2015 meet Euro 5b standards; 2016–2018 models comply with Euro 6b (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/AUD/28867).
The Audi DDCA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for transverse FWD/AWD applications (2013–2018). It combines EA288 modular architecture with dual-loop EGR and common rail injection to deliver balanced performance and emissions compliance. Designed to meet Euro 5b and Euro 6b standards, it balances refinement with evolving regulatory requirements.
| 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 | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5b (2013–2015); Euro 6b (2016–2018) | |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-circuit thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo with vacuum-actuated wastegate | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (long-life, non-serviceable) | |
| Oil type | Audi Longlife-05 (SAE 5W-30) or LL17 FE+ | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The dual-loop EGR system reduces NOx effectively but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using Audi Longlife-05 or LL17 FE+ oils to prevent coking and turbo degradation. The NSC-based aftertreatment demands full regeneration cycles; frequent short trips may lead to limp mode. HPFP wear is documented under sustained high-load conditions; post-2015 models benefit from revised calibration per Audi SIB 01 14 41. Avoid extended idling to preserve EGR cooler efficiency and prevent soot accumulation in the intake manifold.
Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife-05 (5W-30) or LL17 FE+ specification (Audi SIB 01 14 41). ACEA C3 compliance required.
Emissions: Euro 5b applies to 2013–2015 models (VCA #VCA/AUD/28867). Euro 6b introduced in 2016 for enhanced NOx control.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. 103 kW output requires ULSD meeting EN 590 (Audi TIS A288-1A).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A288-1A, SIB 01 14 41
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/AUD/28867)
European Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Audi DDCA was used across Audi's 8V/8S platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated EGR routing in the A3 and revised intake tuning in the S3-and from 2016 the updated 8V.5 facelift adopted Euro 6b calibration, creating emissions and software compatibility limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A288-1A). The 8th VIN digit identifies engine type ('B' for DDCA in 8V/8S chassis). Visual identification includes black plastic intake manifold and side-mounted turbocharger. Critical differentiation from EA288 Gen 1B: DDCA uses NSC without SCR; Gen 1B variants feature SCR with AdBlue injection. Service parts require model-year verification—HPFP and ECU calibration differ between Euro 5b and Euro 6b variants (Audi SIB 01 14 41).
The DDCA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear under sustained load, with elevated incidence in mixed urban/highway use. Internal Audi field reports from 2017 noted a subset of pre-2016 units requiring HPFP replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows NSC-related faults increasing in vehicles with frequent short trips. Extended oil intervals and poor fuel quality exacerbate component stress, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2013-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DDCA.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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AUDI Official Site
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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VCA Certification Portal
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