Engine Code

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

The Audi DFVA is a 1,968 cc, inline-four turbo-diesel engine produced between 2019 and 2023. 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 360 Nm of torque, with enhanced thermal efficiency and reduced particulate emissions.

Fitted to models such as the A4 (B9), A5 (F5), A6 (C8), and Q5 (FY), the DFVA 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 6d compliance across its production run.

One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive shaft wear, highlighted in Audi Service Information Bulletin 2020-11-02. Premature wear occurs due to torsional vibrations in the camshaft drive system under high-load conditions. From 2021, revised HPFP coupling design and updated camshaft phaser calibration were introduced to improve durability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2019–2023) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).

DFVA Technical Specifications

The Audi DFVA is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbo-diesel engineered for transverse-mounted applications in compact and mid-size models (2019–2023). 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 6d emissions standards, it balances performance with environmental compliance.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement1,968 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationInline-4, DOHC, 16-valve
AspirationTurbocharged (VGT)
Bore × stroke81.0 mm × 95.5 mm
Power output110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm
Torque360 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CRS 2.0 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio16.5:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled with dual-circuit thermostat
TurbochargerSingle variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell)
Timing systemRoller chain (two-stage tensioner)
Oil typeVW 504 00 / 507 00 (SAE 5W-30)
Dry weight149 kg
Practical Implications

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 direct injection system is prone to coking; walnut blasting every 60,000 km helps maintain airflow. Post-2021 models feature improved HPFP coupling; pre-2021 units should be inspected for drive shaft wear per Audi SIB 2020-11-02. SCR-equipped models require AdBlue top-ups every 12,000 km to maintain emissions compliance.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires VW 504 00 / 507 00 specification (Audi SIB 2020-11-02). Low-ash oil essential for aftertreatment longevity.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all 2019–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9012).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 590 (Audi TIS Doc. A36026).

Primary Sources

Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A34725, A35106, SIB 2020-11-02

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9012)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

DFVA Compatible Models

The Audi DFVA was used across Audi's B9/FY platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the A4 and revised EGR routing in the Q5-and from 2021, updated camshaft phaser calibration in A6 and A5 variants created interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Audi
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
A4 (B9)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2026
Make:
Audi
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
A5 (F5)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi Group PT-2026
Make:
Audi
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
A6 (C8)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A34914
Make:
Audi
Years:
2019–2023
Models:
Q5 (FY)
Variants:
2.0 TDI 150 PS
View Source
Audi TIS Doc. A35019
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A34725). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine type ('C' for 2.0 TDI EA288 series). All units feature SCR with AdBlue system. Critical differentiation: DFVA has a Bosch EDC17CP55 ECU with 80-pin connector, while similar EA189 engines use EDC17CP14. Service parts require model-year verification—HPFP units before 2021 are incompatible with post-2021 camshaft phaser revisions (Audi SIB 2020-11-02).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Audi TIS Doc. A34725

Location:

Stamped horizontally on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Audi TIS A34725).

Visual Cues:

All models feature SCR system with AdBlue filler and dosing unit.
Compatibility Notes

H P F P:

High-pressure fuel pumps for pre-2021 DFVA models are not compatible with post-2021 variants due to revised drive coupling.

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2020-11-02

Aftertreatment:

Euro 6d compliance requires updated DPF, NOx sensors, and SCR dosing control. Retrofitting not supported by OEM.
HPFP Drive Shaft Wear

Issue:

Early DFVA engines experienced HPFP drive shaft wear due to torsional vibrations in the camshaft drive system under high-load conditions.

Evidence:

Audi SIB 2020-11-02

Recommendation:

Inspect HPFP drive coupling for wear; replace with updated part per Audi SIB 2020-11-02 if play is detected.

Common Reliability Issues - AUDI DFVA

The DFVA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive shaft wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent towing or high-speed motorway driving. Internal Audi quality reports from 2021 noted a significant number of pre-2021 units requiring HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA data links fuel system faults to a notable share of emissions test failures. High-load operation and poor maintenance increase torsional stress, making regular inspection and software updates critical.

High-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) drive shaft wear
Symptoms: Hard starting, loss of power, fuel pressure DTCs, complete no-start condition.
Cause: Torsional vibrations in the camshaft drive system cause premature wear of the HPFP drive shaft coupling, leading to loss of fuel pressure.
Fix: Replace HPFP with updated OEM part per service bulletin; verify camshaft phaser operation and update engine software.
Turbocharger actuator sticking
Symptoms: Loss of boost, over-boost DTCs, reduced throttle response, black smoke under load.
Cause: Carbon buildup or mechanical wear in the VGT actuator linkage, exacerbated by poor oil quality or extended service intervals.
Fix: Clean or replace actuator mechanism; verify vane movement and recalibrate via diagnostic system.
DPF saturation or blockage
Symptoms: Limp mode, reduced power, increased fuel consumption, frequent regeneration warnings.
Cause: Extended short-trip driving prevents passive DPF regeneration, leading to soot accumulation beyond active regeneration capacity.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration via diagnostics; if blocked, clean or replace DPF and verify EGR/boost function.
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket
Symptoms: Oil residue on engine top, burning smell, drips on exhaust manifold or undertray.
Cause: Age-related degradation of the valve cover gasket, often accelerated by high underhood temperatures and poor oil condition.
Fix: Replace gasket with OEM part and inspect PCV system for blockages contributing to crankcase pressure.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2019-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about AUDI DFVA

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DFVA.

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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