Audi 2.0 TFSI: years, specs & known problems

By CarWhere Research · Updated

The Audi 2.0 TFSI is the EA888 turbocharged 1,984 cc four-cylinder used across the US lineup since the 2009 A4. Output has risen from 211 hp and 258 lb-ft to 268 hp and 295 lb-ft in the 2025 A5 and Q5. Check oil consumption on 2009–2011 cars, the timing chain tensioner and the auxiliary coolant pump recall.

Every US 2.0 TFSI shares the same 1,984 cc displacement and 82.5 × 92.8 mm bore and stroke, with a chain-driven double-overhead-cam head, direct injection and a single turbocharger. The 2009 A4 brought it in at 211 hp and 258 lb-ft, replacing a 200 hp 2.0T. Audi raised the longitudinal engine to 220 hp for 2014, launched an evolved 252 hp version in the 2016 A6 and 2017 A4, settled on 248 hp for 2019–2020 and 261 hp from 2021. Transverse versions power the A3, TT and Q3, and high-output tunes power the S3 and TTS.

The 2025 A5 and Q5 moved to a reworked 2.0 TFSI rated at 268 hp and 295 lb-ft, paired only with a seven-speed S tronic. The first things to check differ by era: oil consumption on the 2009–2011 CAEB engine, timing chain tensioners on 2008–2015 engines covered by two class settlements, and the auxiliary coolant pump recall on 2012–2017 models.

2.0 TFSI at a glance

Audi 2.0 TFSI (EA888) turbocharged 1,984 cc inline-four, US models 2009–present: model years, fuel and peak Audi-published output by version
EngineModel yearsFuelPeak hpPeak torque (lb-ft)Documented problemsRecalls
2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp)2009–2017Gasoline (premium recommended)24535432
Transverse 2.0 and 1.8 TFSI: A3, S3, TT and TTS (2009–2020)2009–2020Gasoline (premium recommended)29228010
2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp)2016–2024Gasoline (premium recommended)36236903
2025-on 2.0 TFSI for the A5 and Q5 (268 hp)2025–presentGasoline (premium recommended)26829500

CarWhere lists 4 documented problems and 5 NHTSA recalls for the 2.0 TFSI, each with a source.

2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp)

The engine in the B8 A4, A5, Q5, allroad and C7 A6. It made 211 hp and 258 lb-ft through 2013, then 220 hp from 2014 with the same torque. This is the era of the oil-consumption and timing-chain settlements.

2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp) specifications

2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp): design facts (2009–2017)
SpecificationValue
Displacement1,984 cc (121.1 cu in)[2]
Bore × stroke82.5 × 92.8 mm (3.25 × 3.65 in)[2]
Compression ratio9.6:1[2]
ValvetrainDOHC, chain driven, Audi valvelift system on the exhaust valves[2]
PredecessorReplaced a 200 hp, 207 lb-ft 2.0 TFSI in the 2009 A4[1]
Engine code (2009–2011 A4/A5/Q5)CAEB[10]

2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp) horsepower and torque by year

2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp): Audi-published horsepower (hp) and torque (lb-ft) by model year and application
Model yearsApplicationHorsepower (hp)Torque (lb-ft)Source
2009A4 2.0TTorque from 1,500–4,200 rpm211258[1]
2011A4 2.0T211 hp at 4,300–6,000 rpm211258[2]
2013allroad, Q5211 hp at 4,300 rpm, 258 lb-ft at 1,500 rpm211258[3]
2013Q5 hybrid (system output)245354[4]
2014A4 2.0TAudi raised output to 220 hp; torque unchanged220258[5]
2014A5 2.0T220258[6]
2014A6 2.0TAudi lists the increase to 220 hp; torque not restated220—[7]
2015–2016A4 and A5 2.0T220 hp at 4,450–6,000 rpm220258[8]
2016Q5 2.0T220258[9]

"—" means we could not confirm the figure from a primary source.

Which vehicles have the 2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp)?

Models and model years offered with the 2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp)
ModelModel yearsNotes
A4 sedan and Avant2009–2016
A5 coupe and cabriolet2010–20172017 A5 Cabriolet is included in the coolant pump recall
Q52011–20172.0 TFSI added for 2011
allroad2013–2016
A62012–20152016 A6 moved to the 252 hp version
Q5 hybrid2013–20162.0 TFSI plus electric motor, 245 hp system output

2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp) problems and what to check

Excessive oil consumption (CAEB engine) (2009–2011)

Major repair

The longitudinal 2.0 TFSI with Audi engine code CAEB in the 2009–2011 A4, 2010–2011 A5 and 2011 Q5 was the subject of a nationwide class action over oil consumption. The court approved a settlement in May 2015 covering owners and lessees of those vehicles; Audi and Volkswagen did not admit wrongdoing.[10]

Symptoms

  • Low-oil warning between scheduled oil changes
  • Needing to add a quart or more of oil between services
  • Blue smoke or fouled spark plugs on high-mileage engines

Check before buying

  • Ask for records of any dealer oil-consumption test or engine repair
  • Check the oil level on the dipstick or in the MMI before the test drive and again afterward
  • Run the VIN for open campaigns and service history at an Audi dealer

Program: Asghari v. Volkswagen Group of America settlement (C.D. Cal., final approval May 29, 2015); claims period closed

Timing chain tensioner failure (2008–2013)

Major repair

A class action alleged that the timing chain system on early EA888 engines could fail well before any scheduled service, with a risk of catastrophic engine damage. The settlement covered certain 2008–2012 A3, 2009–2012 A4, 2010–2013 A5, 2012 A6, 2011–2012 Q5 and 2009–2012 TT models and extended timing-chain coverage to 10 years or 100,000 miles from the in-service date.[11]

Symptoms

  • Rattle from the front of the engine for a few seconds after a cold start
  • Check-engine light with camshaft/crankshaft correlation codes
  • Sudden loss of power or a no-start if the chain jumps

Check before buying

  • Ask for proof the tensioner (and ideally the chain) has been updated
  • Listen for a cold-start rattle; have the car sit overnight before the test drive
  • Check whether the 10-year/100,000-mile extended coverage has run out for this VIN

Program: In re Volkswagen Timing Chain Product Liability Litigation (D.N.J. 16-cv-2765): 10-year/100,000-mile extended timing-chain warranty from in-service date; reimbursement of past repairs

Timing chain system on 2012–2015 A4, A5 and Q5 (2012–2015)

Major repair

A second class action covered 2012–2015 A4 (sedan, Avant, allroad), A5 (coupe, cabriolet, Sportback) and Q5 models with the second-generation EA888 2.0, alleging the same timing chain defect persisted. Under the settlement given final approval on August 14, 2024, Volkswagen extended coverage of timing chain and tensioner failures to 10 years or 100,000 miles from the in-service date.[12]

Symptoms

  • Brief chain rattle at cold start
  • Timing-related fault codes or a check-engine light
  • Engine damage if the chain skips

Check before buying

  • Get the service history and look for a timing chain or tensioner replacement
  • Confirm the in-service date to see if the extended coverage still applies
  • Cold-start the engine and listen at the front of the engine

Program: Opheim v. Volkswagen AG (D.N.J. 20-cv-2483, Volkswagen Timing Chain II): final approval Aug. 14, 2024; coverage extended to 10 years/100,000 miles

2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp) recalls

NHTSA safety recalls related to the 2009–2017 longitudinal 2.0 TFSI (211–220 hp) (campaign numbers link to NHTSA)
NHTSA campaignReportedVehiclesSummary
17V0022017-012012–2015 A6, 2013–2016 A4 and allroad, 2013–2017 A5, A5 Cabriolet and Q5 with the 2.0 TFSIThe electric auxiliary coolant pump can be blocked by debris from the cooling system and overheat. Dealers inspect the pump and replace it if needed.
18V2292018-042012–2015 A6, 2013–2016 A4 and allroad, 2013–2017 A5, A5 Cabriolet and Q5 with the 2.0 TFSIFollow-up to 17V-002: the electric coolant pump can overheat from debris or short-circuit from moisture inside the pump. Dealers replace the pump.

Transverse 2.0 and 1.8 TFSI: A3, S3, TT and TTS (2009–2020)

Transversely mounted versions for the A3 and TT. The 2009–2015 TT used a 211 hp engine and the TTS a 265 hp tune; the 2015-on A3 offered a 170 hp 1.8 TFSI and a 220 hp 2.0, with 292 hp in the S3 and 2016–2018 TTS.

Transverse 2.0 and 1.8 TFSI: A3, S3, TT and TTS (2009–2020) specifications

Transverse 2.0 and 1.8 TFSI: A3, S3, TT and TTS (2009–2020): design facts (2009–2020)
SpecificationValue
Displacement (2.0)1,984 cc[18]
Displacement (1.8)1,798 cc, 82.5 × 84.1 mm[18]
Compression ratio9.6:1 (A3 1.8 and 2.0); 9.3:1 (S3)[18]
Compression ratio (2009–2015 TT/TTS)9.6:1 (TT); 9.8:1 (TTS)[14]
High-output S3 output292 hp at 5,400–6,200 rpm, 280 lb-ft at 1,900–5,300 rpm[18]

Transverse 2.0 and 1.8 TFSI: A3, S3, TT and TTS (2009–2020) horsepower and torque by year

Transverse 2.0 and 1.8 TFSI: A3, S3, TT and TTS (2009–2020): Audi-published horsepower (hp) and torque (lb-ft) by model year and application
Model yearsApplicationHorsepower (hp)Torque (lb-ft)Source
2013TT coupe and roadster211258[13]
2013–2015TTS265 hp at 6,000 rpm265258[14]
2015–2016A3 1.8 TFSI FWD170200[15]
2015–2016A3 2.0 TFSI quattro220258[15]
2015–2016S3292280[15]
2016–2018TT220258[16]
2016–2018TTS292280[16]
2019S3288280[17]

"—" means we could not confirm the figure from a primary source.

Which vehicles have the Transverse 2.0 and 1.8 TFSI: A3, S3, TT and TTS (2009–2020)?

Models and model years offered with the Transverse 2.0 and 1.8 TFSI: A3, S3, TT and TTS (2009–2020)
ModelModel yearsNotes
A3 2.0 TFSI2008–2013Covered by the 2008–2012 A3 timing-chain settlement class
TT coupe and roadster2009–2015
TTS2009–2015265 hp tune
A3 sedan/cabriolet 1.8 TFSI (FWD)2015–2016
A3 sedan/cabriolet 2.0 TFSI quattro2015–2020
S32015–2020
TT and TTS (third generation)2016–2023

Transverse 2.0 and 1.8 TFSI: A3, S3, TT and TTS (2009–2020) problems and what to check

Timing chain tensioner failure (2008–2013)

Major repair

A class action alleged that the timing chain system on early EA888 engines could fail well before any scheduled service, with a risk of catastrophic engine damage. The settlement covered certain 2008–2012 A3, 2009–2012 A4, 2010–2013 A5, 2012 A6, 2011–2012 Q5 and 2009–2012 TT models and extended timing-chain coverage to 10 years or 100,000 miles from the in-service date.[11]

Symptoms

  • Rattle from the front of the engine for a few seconds after a cold start
  • Check-engine light with camshaft/crankshaft correlation codes
  • Sudden loss of power or a no-start if the chain jumps

Check before buying

  • Ask for proof the tensioner (and ideally the chain) has been updated
  • Listen for a cold-start rattle; have the car sit overnight before the test drive
  • Check whether the 10-year/100,000-mile extended coverage has run out for this VIN

Program: In re Volkswagen Timing Chain Product Liability Litigation (D.N.J. 16-cv-2765): 10-year/100,000-mile extended timing-chain warranty from in-service date; reimbursement of past repairs

2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp)

The evolved 2.0 TFSI launched in the 2016 A6 and 2017 A4 at 252 hp and 273 lb-ft. Audi then rated it at 248 hp for 2019–2020 and 261 hp from 2021 in '45 TFSI' models, with lower-output '40 TFSI' tunes of 188–201 hp.

2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp) specifications

2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp): design facts (2016–2024)
SpecificationValue
Output at launch252 hp at 5,600–6,000 rpm, 273 lb-ft at 1,600–4,500 rpm (2017 A4)[20]
Compression ratio9.6:1[27]
Rightsizing combustion processAudi's 190 PS (236 lb-ft) efficiency version uses a shortened intake phase similar to the Miller cycle[31]
TransmissionSeven-speed S tronic dual-clutch (A4, A5, A6, Q5); eight-speed Tiptronic (Q7)[28]

2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp) horsepower and torque by year

2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp): Audi-published horsepower (hp) and torque (lb-ft) by model year and application
Model yearsApplicationHorsepower (hp)Torque (lb-ft)Source
2016A6 2.0T252 hp at 5,000–6,000 rpm252273[19]
2017A4 2.0T252273[20]
2018A5 coupe, cabriolet and Sportback252273[21]
2019Q5248273[22]
2019A4 quattro and A4 allroad248273[23]
2019–2020Q7 45 TFSI248273[24]
2020A4 sedan FWD188236[25]
2020A4 quattro and A4 allroad248273[25]
2020A6 45 TFSI248273[26]
2021Q5 45 TFSI261273[27]
2024A4/A5/A6/Q5/Q7 45 TFSI261273[28]
2024A4, A5 Sportback and Q5 40 TFSI201236[28]
2024Q3 40 TFSI184221[28]
2024Q3 45 TFSI228251[28]
2022A3 40 TFSI201221[29]
2022–2024S3306295[29]
2025A3 40 TFSI201236[30]
2025S3328295[30]
2024Q5 55 TFSI e plug-in hybrid (system output)362369[28]

"—" means we could not confirm the figure from a primary source.

Which vehicles have the 2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp)?

Models and model years offered with the 2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp)
ModelModel yearsNotes
A62016–2024
A4 sedan and allroad2017–2024
A5 coupe, cabriolet and Sportback2018–2024
Q5 and Q5 Sportback2018–2024Q5 Sportback from 2021
Q7 45 TFSI2017–2025
Q3 (transverse)2015–2025184 and 228 hp versions for 2024
A3 sedan (transverse)2022–2026
S3 (transverse)2022–2026

2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp) recalls

NHTSA safety recalls related to the 2016–2024 evolved 2.0 TFSI (188–261 hp) (campaign numbers link to NHTSA)
NHTSA campaignReportedVehiclesSummary
22V3682022-052022 A4 sedan, A6 sedan, Q5 and Q5 SportbackA semiconductor inside the engine control unit may short-circuit and cause the engine to stall.
22V7532022-102021 Q5 and 2022–2023 Q5 Sportback (also 2022–2023 VW Atlas models)Engine connecting rod bearings may become damaged, which can result in engine failure.
25V2942025-052022–2024 Q5 quattro and Q5 Sportback quattroCylinder head cover screws may have been improperly tightened.

2025-on 2.0 TFSI for the A5 and Q5 (268 hp)

The 2025 A5 and Q5 moved to a reworked 2.0 TFSI rated at 268 hp and 295 lb-ft, gains of 7 hp and 22 lb-ft over the previous Q5. It is paired only with a seven-speed S tronic and quattro, and US models do not get the 48-volt MHEV plus system sold in Europe.

2025-on 2.0 TFSI for the A5 and Q5 (268 hp) specifications

2025-on 2.0 TFSI for the A5 and Q5 (268 hp): design facts (2025–present)
SpecificationValue
Output268 hp at 5,000–6,500 rpm; 295 lb-ft at 1,750–4,500 rpm[35]
Bore × stroke82.5 × 92.8 mm[35]
Compression ratio10.5:1[35]
TransmissionSeven-speed S tronic dual-clutch, quattro all-wheel drive[35]
Mild hybridNo MHEV in the US market (Europe gets 48-volt MHEV plus)[36]

2025-on 2.0 TFSI for the A5 and Q5 (268 hp) horsepower and torque by year

2025-on 2.0 TFSI for the A5 and Q5 (268 hp): Audi-published horsepower (hp) and torque (lb-ft) by model year and application
Model yearsApplicationHorsepower (hp)Torque (lb-ft)Source
2025A567 hp and 59 lb-ft more than the outgoing A5 Sportback base engine268295[32]
2025Q5 and Q5 Sportback268295[33]
2026Q3255 hp at 5,250–6,500 rpm255273[34]

"—" means we could not confirm the figure from a primary source.

Which vehicles have the 2025-on 2.0 TFSI for the A5 and Q5 (268 hp)?

Models and model years offered with the 2025-on 2.0 TFSI for the A5 and Q5 (268 hp)
ModelModel yearsNotes
A5 sedan (replaces A4 sedan)2025–present
Q5 and Q5 Sportback (third generation)2025–present
Q3 (new generation, transverse)2026–present255 hp version

2.0 TFSI issues by model

The same engine shows up on these known-issues pages, with model-specific details.

Related Audi research

Confirm a car really has the 2.0 TFSI.

The engine an Audi left the factory with is part of its build record. The CarWhere Audi build sheet reconstructs factory colors, options and packages from licensed VIN-level build data — availability is checked free, and it is $9.99 only when detailed build data is found for that VIN.

Audi build sheet by VIN

Frequently asked questions

Is the Audi 2.0 TFSI an EA888?

Yes. The 2.0 TFSI used in US Audis since the 2009 A4 belongs to Volkswagen Group's EA888 family: a 1,984 cc turbocharged four-cylinder with an 82.5 × 92.8 mm bore and stroke and chain-driven camshafts.

How much horsepower does the Audi 2.0T have?

It depends on the year and tune: 211 hp (2009–2013), 220 hp (2014–2016), 252 hp (2016 A6, 2017–2018 A4/A5), 248 hp (2019–2020) and 261 hp (2021–2024 45 TFSI). The 2025 A5 and Q5 make 268 hp. The S3 ranges from 288 to 328 hp.

Which Audi 2.0T years burn oil?

The best-documented case is the CAEB engine in the 2009–2011 A4, 2010–2011 A5 and 2011 Q5, which was the subject of a class settlement approved in 2015. Any high-mileage 2.0 TFSI should be checked for oil use before purchase.

Does the Audi 2.0T have a timing chain or belt?

A timing chain. Tensioner failures on 2008–2015 engines led to two class settlements that extended timing-chain coverage to 10 years or 100,000 miles for the covered A3, A4, A5, A6, Q5 and TT models.

What is the Audi 2.0T coolant pump recall?

NHTSA campaigns 17V-002 and 18V-229 covered 2.0 TFSI engines in 2012–2015 A6, 2013–2016 A4 and allroad and 2013–2017 A5 and Q5 models. The electric auxiliary coolant pump could overheat, so dealers inspected it and replaced it if needed.

Is the 2025 Audi 2.0 TFSI a mild hybrid?

Not in the US. Audi sells the 2025 Q5 with 48-volt MHEV plus in Europe but notes there is no MHEV in the US market. US A5 and Q5 models make 268 hp and 295 lb-ft without it.

Sources

Ratings are Audi-published figures as cited; descriptions are CarWhere’s own summaries of the sources below. Repair costs appear only where a source states them and vary by shop and region.

  1. 2009 A4 USA quick reference (Mar. 2008), Audi of America document — Audi of America (hosted by AudiWorld) (secondary reference)
  2. 2011 A4 technical specifications — Audi of America (hosted by AudiWorld) (secondary reference)
  3. 2013 Audi allroad media information kit — Audi of America
  4. 2013 Audi Q5 media kit — Audi of America
  5. Audi A4/S4 media kit (2014 model year) — Audi of America
  6. 2014 Audi A5/S5/RS 5 media kit — Audi of America
  7. 2014 Audi A6/S6 media kit — Audi of America
  8. 2016 Audi A4/S4 media kit (revised May 2015) — Audi of America
  9. 2016 Audi Q5/TDI/hybrid/SQ5 media kit (revised June 2015) — Audi of America
  10. Asghari v. Volkswagen Group of America, No. CV13-02529 (C.D. Cal.), class action final judgment (2015) — U.S. District Court, C.D. Cal. (via Justia) (secondary reference)
  11. Volkswagen Timing Chain I (In re Volkswagen Timing Chain Product Liability Litigation, D.N.J. 16-cv-2765) — Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check (class counsel) (secondary reference)
  12. Volkswagen Timing Chain II (Opheim v. Volkswagen AG, D.N.J. 20-cv-2483) — Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check (class counsel) (secondary reference)
  13. 2013 Audi TT/TTS/TT RS media information kit — Audi of America
  14. 2015 Audi TT/TTS media kit (revised Feb. 2014) — Audi of America
  15. 2016 Audi A3/S3 media information kit — Audi of America
  16. 2018 Audi TT/TTS/TT RS press kit (revised July 2017) — Audi of America
  17. 2019 Audi S3/RS 3 press kit — Audi of America
  18. 2015 Audi A3/TDI/S3 media information kit — Audi of America
  19. 2016 Audi A6/TDI/S6 media kit (revised May 2015) — Audi of America
  20. 2017 Audi A4 press kit (revised March 2016) — Audi of America
  21. 2018 Audi A5/S5 Coupe and Cabriolet media kit — Audi of America
  22. 2019 Audi Q5/SQ5 press kit — Audi of America
  23. 2019 Audi A4 family press kit — Audi of America
  24. 2019 Audi Q7 press kit — Audi of America
  25. 2020 Audi A4: brand's bestselling sedan with sharpened design — Audi of America
  26. 2020 Audi A6/S6 press kit — Audi of America
  27. 2021 Audi Q5 model line technical specifications — Audi of America
  28. Audi updates 2024 models with new standard features and expanded connected technology (pricing as of Aug. 3, 2023) — Audi of America
  29. 2022 Audi A3/S3/RS 3 technical specifications — Audi of America
  30. 2025 Audi A3/S3/RS 3 technical specifications (rev. May 2025) — Audi of America
  31. World premiere at the Vienna Motor Symposium: new high-efficiency engine from Audi (May 8, 2015) — Audi AG (reposted by AudiWorld) (secondary reference)
  32. All-new Audi A5 model lineup (2025 A5/S5 release) — Audi of America
  33. All-new Audi Q5: full pricing and specifications (2025 Q5/SQ5 release) — Audi of America
  34. All-new 2026 Audi Q3 technical specifications — Audi of America
  35. 2026 Audi Q5 and SQ5 technical specifications — Audi of America
  36. The new Audi Q5 SUV: proven concept in its third generation — Audi AG / Audi of America

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Independent reference compiled by CarWhere — not affiliated with or endorsed by AUDI AG or Audi of America. Audi, quattro, TFSI, S tronic, e-tron and the model names are trademarks of their owners.