The Audi DETA is a 1,984 cc, inline-four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2021. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group's EA888 Gen 3B engine family, designed for transverse and longitudinal applications across compact and mid-size platforms. Featuring direct fuel injection (TSI), variable valve timing (VVT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), it delivers 140 kW (190 PS) in standard tune, with peak torque of 320 Nm available from 1,500 rpm.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A3 (8V), A4 (B9), and Q3 (8U), the DETA was engineered for responsive urban performance and efficient highway cruising. Its driving character emphasizes strong low-end torque and smooth power delivery ideal for daily use. Emissions compliance is achieved via a three-way catalytic converter, gasoline particulate filter (GPF), and advanced engine management, enabling Euro 6c and later Euro 6d-TEMP compliance depending on model year.
One documented reliability concern involves high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, particularly in early production units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2017-09, is linked to marginal lubrication conditions in the Bosch HDP5-based HPFP. From 2018, updated pump components and revised fuel specifications were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 2016–2018 meet Euro 6c standards; 2019–2021 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681).
The Audi DETA is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engineered for compact and mid-size models (2016-2021). It combines direct fuel injection with a single turbocharger to deliver responsive low-RPM performance and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 6c and 6d-TEMP standards, it integrates a gasoline particulate filter (GPF) for clean operation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,984 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.5 mm × 92.8 mm | |
| Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 3,800–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1,500–3,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 2,000 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6c (pre-2019); Euro 6d-TEMP (2019–2021) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbocharger with water-cooled housing (BorgWarner) | |
| Timing system | Roller chain (long-life design) | |
| Oil type | VW 508 00 / 509 00 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The turbo provides strong low-end torque ideal for daily driving, but requires regular longer runs to prevent GPF clogging. Use of VW 508 00 / 509 00 (0W-20) oil is essential to minimise wear in the high-pressure fuel pump and maintain fuel efficiency. The EA888 block design is robust, but early units (pre-2018) are prone to HPFP wear under marginal fuel quality. Always follow Audi SIB 2017-09 for fuel system inspection intervals. GPF regeneration cycles must be completed to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp mode.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 508 00 / 509 00 specification (Audi SIB 2017-09). Low-viscosity formulation critical for HPFP longevity and fuel economy.
Emissions: Euro 6c applies to pre-2019 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5681). Euro 6d-TEMP compliance confirmed for 2019–2021 models with real-world driving emissions (RDE) testing.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output remains stable with 95 RON fuel. No power increase in later revisions.
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A40031, A40231, SIB 2017-09
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5681)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Audi DETA was used across Audi's 8V/B9/8U platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for transverse applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated GPF in 8V and revised HPFP routing in B9-and from 2019 the updated B9 facelift adopted Euro 6d-TEMP-compliant tuning with enhanced GPF regeneration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Audi TIS A40031). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for DETA). Pre-2018 models have a silver valve cover with a single fuel rail; post-2018 units feature a black valve cover with revised HPFP mounting. Critical differentiation from EA888 Gen 3A: DETA has GPF integrated into the exhaust manifold, while Gen 3A lacks GPF. Service parts require model year verification - HPFP components before 2018 are not compatible with post-2018 revisions due to internal design changes (Audi SIB 2017-09).
The DETA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, with elevated incidence in early production units. Internal Audi service data from 2018 indicated over 20% of pre-2018 units required HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show GPF-related faults as a leading cause of Euro 6 MOT failures. Short-trip cycles and infrequent regeneration increase soot accumulation, making regular maintenance and longer runs critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2016-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DETA.
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