The Audi CDLH is a 1,968 cc, inline — four turbocharged diesel engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It forms part of the EA288 engine family developed for transverse applications across the Volkswagen Group, featuring common rail direct injection, a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard tune, it produces 110 kW (150 PS) with peak torque of 340 Nm available from 1,750 rpm.
Fitted primarily to the A3 (8V), A4 (B9), and A6 (C8)…
Production years 2015–2018 meet Euro 6b standards; 2019–2020 models comply with Euro 6d-TEMP depending on market .
The Audi CDLH is a 1,968 cc inline-four turbocharged diesel engine engineered for compact and mid-size Audi models (2015–2020). It combines variable geometry turbocharging with common rail injection to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6b and Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standards, it balances performance with strict environmental compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,968 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
Power output | 110 kW (150 PS) @ 3,250–4,200 rpm | |
Torque | 340 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CRS 2-20 common rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6b / Euro 6d-TEMP | |
Compression ratio | 16.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single BorgWarner VTG turbocharger | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (rear-mounted; tensioner wear concern) | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 148 kg |
The Audi CDLH was used across Audi's 8V/B9/C8 platforms with transverse and longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the 8V A3 and revised cooling routing in the B9 A4-and from 2018 the facelifted B9 A4 Avant models adopted updated chain tensioners, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The CDLH delivers strong performance and responsiveness, but early models (2015–2017) had reliability concerns, particularly timing chain failures. Later revisions (post-2017) improved chain durability, so well-maintained examples can be quite robust. Regular servicing and using high-quality oil (5W-30 Audi Longlife-04) greatly aid longevity.
The biggest issues are timing-chain wear (leading to rattle or breakage), turbo actuator failures, and intake carbon buildup affecting EGR and swirl flaps. Other complaints include oil leaks from gaskets and occasional injector faults. These are well-documented in Audi service bulletins and technical reports.
This 2.0L TDI engine was used in several Audi models including the 8V A3, B9 A4, C8 A6, and FY Q5. It forms part of the EA288 diesel family and was used in Euro 6b and Euro 6d-TEMP-compliant vehicles. Applications span 2015–2020, primarily in front-wheel drive and quattro configurations. It was not used outside the Audi/VW Group.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the CDLH platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Excellent. In an A4 2.0 TDI (110 kW) from 2016, typical consumption is ~6.2 L/100km (city) and ~4.3 L/100km (highway), or about 55 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures depend on driving style, but expect 50–60 mpg (UK) on mixed roads for a healthy CDLH. Turbo efficiency and low-RPM torque improve highway economy.
Yes. The CDLH series is an interference engine. If the timing chain jumps or breaks, pistons can collide with open valves, causing catastrophic engine damage. That's why chain maintenance is critical—any rattling at startup should be investigated immediately.
Audi specifies a 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting Audi Longlife-04 (or newer) spec. Always use a quality oil designed for turbocharged diesel engines and change it every 15,000 km or as Audi recommends to ensure proper chain lubrication and minimize carbon buildup.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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