The Audi PX is a 1,984 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2020. It forms part of the Volkswagen Group’s EA888 engine family, featuring turbocharging, direct fuel injection (TSI), and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts (AVS). In standard tune, it produces 169 kW (230 PS) and 350 Nm of torque, delivering strong mid-range performance suitable for sport-oriented applications.
Fitted to models such as the Audi A4 (B8), A5 (8T), and S3 (8V), the PX engine was engineered for balanced performance and efficiency across executive and performance hatchbacks. Its emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter, particulate filter (GPF), and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 5 and later Euro 6 standards across its production run. The engine's compact design allows for transverse front-wheel-drive or quattro all-wheel-drive layouts.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high-load conditions, particularly in early-build units. This issue, referenced in Audi Technical Service Bulletin 2014-22 (Ref. 022401), is attributed to inadequate lubrication and thermal stress in the pump's plunger assembly. From 2016, Audi implemented a revised HPFP design with improved metallurgy and cooling, reducing failure incidence.
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2020 models comply with Euro 6 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Audi PX is a 1,984 cc inline-four turbocharged petrol engine from the EA888 series (2012–2020). It combines direct fuel injection with dual variable valve timing to deliver responsive performance and improved fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it powers mid-to-high-end Audi models with a focus on driving dynamics and refinement.
| 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 | 169 kW (230 PS) @ 5,200–6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (TSI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 (pre-2015); Euro 6 (2015–2020) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo with variable turbine geometry (VTG) | |
| Timing system | Chain (dual-row; serviceable but wear-prone under high load) | |
| Oil type | VW 502 00 / 505 00 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The turbocharged TSI system provides strong low-end torque ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent high-pressure fuel pump and turbocharger wear. VW 502 00 (5W-40) oil is essential due to its thermal stability and protection of the VTG turbo and chain-driven components. Extended idling and aggressive warm-up cycles increase thermal stress on the HPFP. Post-2016 models feature updated fuel pumps; pre-2016 units should be inspected per Audi TSB 022401. GPF-equipped models require regular highway runs to support passive regeneration and prevent clogging.
Oil Specs: Requires VW 502 00 / 505 00 (5W-40) specification (Audi TSB 022401). ACEA A3/B4 compliant oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 5 applies to 2012–2014 models; Euro 6 certification applies to 2015–2020 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Audi Group PT-2023).
Audi Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B48880, B49015, B49120, TSB 022401
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
DIN Deutsches Institut für Normung: DIN 70020 Power Measurement Standard
The Audi PX was used across Audi's B8/8V platforms with transverse mounting and shared within the Volkswagen Group. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the S3 and revised ECU tuning in the A5-and from 2016 the facelifted A4 B8.5 adopted the PX evolution with updated fuel pump and GPF, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Audi TIS B48900). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('C' for EA888 series). Pre-2016 models have silver valve covers with black cam covers; post-2016 units use all-black covers. Critical differentiation from non-turbo EA888: PX is turbocharged with direct injection and features a VTG turbocharger. Service parts require production date verification - fuel pumps for engines before 09/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal revisions (Audi TSB 022401).
The PX's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation on early builds, with elevated incidence in aggressive or track use. Internal Audi quality reports from 2015 indicated a notable share of pre-2016 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records link a significant portion of misfire-related MOT failures to fuel trim faults in high-mileage examples. Extended idling and poor-quality fuel increase pump stress, making oil quality and fuel additive use critical.
Analysis derived from Audi technical bulletins (2012–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about AUDI PX.
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