Engine Code

AUDI DZCB engine (2021–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Audi DZCB is a 2,967 cc, V6 twin-turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2021 and 2023. It belongs to the Volkswagen Group’s EA898 engine family, featuring common rail direct injection, a cast-iron block with an aluminium head, and a chain-driven valvetrain. In standard tune it delivers 170 kW (231 PS) with peak torque of 500 Nm available from 1,750 rpm, offering strong low-end pull ideal for high-load applications.

Fitted to models including the Audi A6 (C8), A7 (4K), and Q8 (4M), the DZCB was engineered for longitudinal quattro all-wheel-drive platforms requiring premium refinement and towing capability. It meets Euro 6d emissions standards through a close-coupled diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, ensuring compliance without sacrificing performance in flagship vehicles.

One documented service update involves revised high-pressure fuel pump calibration to reduce wear under sustained load, addressed in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2022-23-07. Early production units exhibited elevated injector tip coking under frequent short-trip conditions. From 2022, Audi implemented updated ECU mapping and revised fuel nozzle geometry, improving soot management and long-term injector durability.

BMW N47D20A Engine
Compliance Note:

All DZCB models comply with Euro 6d (2021–2023) depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9234).

DZCB Technical Specifications

The Audi DZCB is a 2,967 cc V6 twin-turbocharged diesel engine engineered for longitudinal applications (2021–2023). It combines common rail injection with sequential turbocharging to deliver strong low-end torque and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance in luxury all-wheel-drive platforms.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement2,967 cc
Fuel typeDiesel
ConfigurationV6, DOHC, 24-valve
AspirationTwin-turbocharged with variable geometry turbo (VGT)
Bore × stroke83.0 mm × 95.5 mm
Power output170 kW (231 PS) @ 3,500–4,000 rpm
Torque500 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm
Fuel systemBosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 2,000 bar)
Emissions standardEuro 6d (2021–2023)
Compression ratio16.0:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled with dual-circuit thermal management
TurbochargerSequential twin-turbo setup with low-pressure VGT and high-pressure fixed geometry
Timing systemChain-driven (maintenance-free design)
Oil typeAudi Longlife Diesel VW 507.00 (SAE 0W-30)
Dry weight210 kg
Practical Implications

The sequential twin-turbo system provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing and motorway driving but requires regular longer runs to maintain DPF regeneration cycles and prevent clogging. Audi Longlife Diesel VW 507.00 (0W-30) oil is essential due to its low-SAPS formulation, protecting the SCR system and turbo bearings. Extended idling and short trips increase soot loading; drivers should complete 20-minute highway drives monthly. The Bosch CRS 2-20 fuel system demands ultra-low-sulfur diesel (EN 590) to prevent injector wear. From 2022, revised ECU maps per Audi TSB 2022-23-07 improve injector longevity and emissions performance.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Audi Longlife Diesel VW 507.00 (0W-30) specification (Audi TSB 2022-23-07). Compatible with ACEA C2/C3.

Emissions: Euro 6d compliance confirmed for all DZCB models (2021–2023) depending on market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9234).

Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output achieved with EN 590 diesel (Audi TIS Doc. A89803).

Primary Sources

Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A89803, TSB 2022-23-07

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9234)

SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards

DZCB Compatible Models

The Audi DZCB was used across Audi's C8/4M platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group for luxury applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned throttle response in the A7 and revised cooling circuits in the Q8-and from 2022 the facelifted C8.5 revision introduced updated ECU calibration and SCR monitoring, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.

Make:
Audi
Years:
2021–2023
Models:
A6 (C8)
Variants:
50 TDI
View Source
Audi Group PT-2023
Make:
Audi
Years:
2021–2023
Models:
A7 (4K)
Variants:
50 TDI
View Source
Audi Group PT-2023
Make:
Audi
Years:
2021–2023
Models:
Q8 (4M)
Variants:
50 TDI
View Source
Audi Group PT-2023
Make:
Porsche
Years:
2022–2023
Models:
Cayenne
Variants:
3.0 TDI (DZCB-based)
View Source
Porsche EPC #P-898-300
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Audi TIS A89803). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('D' for EA898 diesel). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with exposed camshafts; post-2022 units use black covers with integrated breather. Critical differentiation from EA898 3.0 TDI 190 kW: DZCB uses a sequential twin-turbo system, while lower-output variants use a single VGT turbo. Service parts require production date verification - fuel injectors for pre-2022 models are not compatible with post-2022 revisions due to nozzle redesign (Audi TSB 2022-23-07).

Identification Details

Evidence:

Audi TIS Doc. A89803

Location:

Stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the oil filter housing (Audi TIS A89803).

Visual Cues:

  • Pre-2022: Silver valve cover with exposed camshaft
  • Post-2022: Black valve cover with integrated breather
Compatibility Notes

Evidence:

Audi TSB 2022-23-07

Fuel Components:

Fuel injectors and high-pressure pump assemblies for pre-2022 DZCB engines are not compatible with post-2022 Euro 6d revisions due to updated nozzle geometry and calibration per Audi TSB 2022-23-07.
Injector Update

Issue:

Early DZCB units experienced injector tip coking under frequent short-trip operation, leading to reduced injection efficiency and increased particulate emissions.

Evidence:

Audi TSB 2022-23-07

Recommendation:

Install updated ECU mapping and nozzle geometry per Audi TSB 2022-23-07 during service intervals.

Common Reliability Issues - AUDI DZCB

The DZCB's primary reliability risk is DPF clogging in urban-driven vehicles, with elevated incidence in stop-start city use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2022 indicated a notable share of pre-2022 engines requiring DPF cleaning before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show increased emissions-related failures in SCR-equipped post-2022 models. Frequent short trips and delayed oil changes increase soot and thermal stress, making driving pattern and service interval adherence critical.

Diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging
Symptoms: Reduced power, limp mode, frequent regeneration cycles, increased fuel consumption.
Cause: Incomplete passive regeneration due to frequent short trips; oil consumption or poor fuel quality contributing to soot accumulation.
Fix: Initiate forced regeneration via diagnostic tool; verify driving pattern suitability. Severe cases may require DPF cleaning or replacement per Audi procedure.
High-pressure fuel injector coking
Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, reduced power, black smoke under load.
Cause: Carbon buildup on injector tips due to prolonged low-load operation and inadequate combustion temperatures.
Fix: Clean or replace injectors; update ECU mapping per Audi TSB 2022-23-07 to improve injection strategy and reduce coking.
EGR/DOC system fouling
Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation, excessive smoke, DTCs related to EGR flow or catalyst efficiency.
Cause: Carbon and oil deposit accumulation in EGR valve, cooler, and DOC, restricting flow and reducing efficiency.
Fix: Clean or replace EGR components and inspect DOC condition; renew vacuum lines and perform system adaptations.
AdBlue dosing system faults
Symptoms: SCR warning light, reduced power, failure to start after multiple trips, error codes related to NOx reduction.
Cause: Crystallization in dosing valve or lines, pump failure, or sensor drift affecting urea injection accuracy.
Fix: Inspect and flush dosing system; replace faulty components and recalibrate via diagnostic tool. Use only ISO 22241-compliant AdBlue.
Research Basis

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

Frequently Asked Questions about AUDI DZCB

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI DZCB.

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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