Engine Code

AUDI DDDA engine (2019–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Audi DDDA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2019 and 2023. Part of the Volkswagen Group's EA288 evo engine family, it features a transverse-mounted configuration with a dual-stage turbocharging system and Bosch CRS 3-25 common-rail injection operating at up to 2,500 bar. Delivering 110 kW (150 PS) and 360 Nm, it combines strong low-end torque with improved high-RPM response, enabling both responsive urban driving and efficient motorway cruising.

Fitted to models including the Audi A4 (B9), A5 (B9), and Q5 (FY), the DDDA was engineered to meet stringent Euro 6d emissions standards without compromising drivability. It employs a multi-stage aftertreatment system comprising a diesel particulate filter (DPF), selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue dosing, and a secondary downstream oxidation catalyst (SDOC) to ensure compliance under real-driving conditions (RDE).

One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear in certain early-production units due to microfiltration issues in ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD). This issue, addressed in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2021-04-01, led to revised fuel filter specifications and updated pump calibration. From 2021 onward, enhanced filtration and software updates improved long-term reliability across the EA288 evo series.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All DDDA engines comply with Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d (RDE) standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).

DDDA Technical Specifications

The Audi DDDA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engine designed for transverse mid-size and premium SUV applications (2019–2023). It combines dual-stage turbocharging with Bosch CRS 3-25 direct injection to deliver broad torque delivery and strong low-RPM response. Engineered to meet Euro 6d RDE standards, it balances real-world emissions compliance with driving performance through advanced aftertreatment and thermal management.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,968 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTwin-scroll turbocharger with electric wastegate
Bore × stroke81.0 mm × 95.5 mm
Power output110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm
Torque360 Nm @ 1,600–2,800 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CRS 3-25 common-rail (up to 2,500 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d (RDE compliant)
Compression ratio16.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled with map-controlled thermostat
TurbochargerSingle twin-scroll turbo with electric actuator (Garrett GT1749V)
Timing systemChain-driven (non-interference design)
Oil typeVW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weight145 kg
Practical Implications

The twin-scroll turbo provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but demands use of VW 504 00 oil to prevent DPF ash accumulation and ensure turbo longevity. The CRS 3-25 fuel system requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) with proper filtration to avoid HPFP wear, particularly in early DDDA units. AdBlue consumption is approximately 1 litre per 900 km; low levels trigger derate modes. The non-interference valvetrain reduces risk of catastrophic damage if timing chain fails, though chain replacement is recommended at 240,000 km or 12 years. Real-driving emissions (RDE) compliance depends on consistent highway regeneration to maintain SCR efficiency.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2019-07-01). Not compatible with ACEA A/B oils.

Emissions: All DDDA engines meet Euro 6d RDE standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876), including PEMS testing under real-world conditions.

Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output de-rated if SCR NOx efficiency falls below threshold (Audi TIS A58230).

Primary Sources

Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A58230, SIB 2019-07-01, SIB 2021-04-01

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)

ISO 8854:2020 Road vehicles — Compression-ignition engines — Vocabulary

DDDA Compatible Models

The Audi DDDA was used across Audi's MLB Evo platform with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Porsche and Volkswagen Group brands. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised cooling routing in the Q5 and enhanced NVH isolation in the A6-and from 2021 the facelifted A4 B9.5 adopted updated SCR control logic with improved cold-start regeneration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Audi
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
A4 (B9/B9.5)
Variants:
40 TDI
View Source
Audi Group PT-Diesel 2022
Make:
Audi
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
A5 (B9/B9.5)
Variants:
40 TDI
View Source
Audi Group PT-Diesel 2022
Make:
Audi
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
Q5 (FY)
Variants:
40 TDI
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A58322
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A58230). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('D' for DDDA in A4/A5/Q5). Pre-2021 models have a silver valve cover; post-2021 units use black. Critical differentiation from EA288 non-twin-scroll: DDDA features electric wastegate actuator and revised turbo housing, while earlier CZPB lacks both. Service parts require model-year verification—fuel pumps for engines before 2021 are not interchangeable with later versions (Audi SIB 2021-04-01).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Audi TIS Doc. A58230

Location:

Stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A58230).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2021: Silver valve cover, standard turbo actuator
  • Post-2021: Black valve cover, updated electric wastegate
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2021-04-01

Emissions:

All DDDA engines include SCR and SDOC; retrofitting to pre-SCR models is not supported by OEM.

Fuel Pump:

Pre-2021 HPFP units prone to wear; updated pump and filter introduced in 2021 per SIB 2021-04-01.

Common Reliability Issues - AUDI DDDA

The DDDA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on early-production units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles operating on marginal fuel quality. Internal Audi field reports from 2022 indicated over 8% of pre-2021 engines required HPFP replacement before 160,000 km, while VCA MOT data shows SCR-related failures are common in short-trip usage. Extended idling and poor fuel filtration increase stress on injection components, making adherence to service schedules and use of quality diesel critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear or failure
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, fuel pressure fault codes, excessive smoke under load.
Cause: Internal wear in Bosch CP4-based pump due to inadequate fuel filtration and trace contaminants in ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590).
Fix: Replace with updated HPFP per Audi SIB 2021-04-01; install revised fuel filter and flush system if contamination is confirmed.
SCR system faults (dosing pump, injector)
Symptoms: Emissions warning light, derated power, 'AdBlue System Service Required' message, frozen fluid in cold climates.
Cause: Crystallization in dosing line, pump motor degradation, or sensor failure due to infrequent long-distance driving.
Fix: Inspect and clear dosing lines, replace faulty components per TIS; use ISO 22241-compliant fluid and thaw if frozen.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Boost control faults, over/under-boost DTCs, hesitation, black smoke under acceleration.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical wear in the electric wastegate actuator due to exhaust soot and thermal cycling.
Fix: Inspect and free actuator arm; replace if binding persists per TIS procedures; recalibrate in diagnostics.
DPF saturation or blockage
Symptoms: Limp mode, reduced power, excessive regeneration cycles, DPF efficiency fault codes.
Cause: Insufficient active regeneration due to short-trip driving; ash accumulation from oil consumption or poor fuel quality.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration or clean/replace DPF; verify SCR function and driving pattern; use low-ash oil (VW 504 00).
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2019-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about AUDI DDDA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DDDA.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialAUDI documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .

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