The Audi A4 B8 2.0 TFSI is a lovely car. It pulls well, it's quiet, and it's a pleasure to drive. But the second-generation EA888 engine under the bonnet of many of these cars has a few weaknesses. Some pretty serious ones, too. The good news is that if you know what to watch out for and look after your car properly, you can save yourself a lot of money on repairs. That's why I've put together this Audi A4 B8 2.0 TFSI service schedule.
Which engine does the Audi A4 B8 2.0 TFSI have?
It's the EA888, a turbocharged petrol engine with direct injection and a timing chain. The earlier second-generation versions have two well-known problems: the engine can start burning oil, and the timing chain tensioner can wear out. Both are things you really need to keep an eye on.
Why does the 2.0 TFSI burn oil?
On some of these engines, the piston rings are to blame. The engine starts burning oil, and over time it can need more and more topping up. That's why I want you to keep track of how much oil you're adding between services. If consumption starts increasing, we'll first check the crankcase ventilation system and the condition of the engine. I'm not going to send you off for an expensive repair until we've worked out exactly where the problem is coming from. Because at the end of the day, it's your money paying for it, not the garage's.
What happens to the timing chain and tensioner?
On the earlier engines, the tensioner can lose pressure and allow the timing chain to jump. We can use diagnostics to see how much the chain has stretched. If you hear the engine rattling when it's cold, especially just after starting, please don't ignore it. This is one of those problems where putting things off can end up costing you a fortune.
Audi A4 B8 2.0 TFSI service schedule: when to change the oil?
I recommend changing the engine oil every 10,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first, regardless of which oil you use. Always change the oil filter at the same time. Good, fresh oil helps protect both the timing chain tensioner and the turbo. And if you keep checking the oil level between services, you'll spot it early if the engine starts burning more oil than usual.
What else should you service?
- Spark plugs and ignition coils.
- Air filter and cabin filter.
- Crankcase ventilation filter – every 60,000 km.
- Gearbox oil – for multitronic and S tronic, every 60,000 km using genuine oil, with a mandatory adaptation after the oil change.
- Brake fluid – every two years.
- Coolant – every third heating season.
- Water pump and thermostat – both can develop leaks on the EA888.
If your engine rattles for a few seconds when you start it from cold, please don't ignore it. On the second-generation EA888, it could be the timing chain tensioner. And if that chain jumps, you're looking at a serious engine repair.
A tip from Kris Mladenov: Check your engine oil level once every two weeks. With this engine, an increase in oil consumption is often one of the first signs that something isn't right.
If you drive an Audi A4 B8 2.0 TFSI, bring it into Das Auto Service and we'll take a look at the timing chain and oil consumption. We'll check the condition of your engine and see whether there's anything worth sorting out now, before it turns into a bigger problem.
What can you find in our shop?
Genuine LongLife III FE 0W30 engine oil 5L
Genuine LongLife III engine oil for the 2.0 TFSI. Change it every 10,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first.
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Genuine S-Tronic dual-clutch gearbox oil G052529A2 1l
Genuine S tronic gearbox oil if your car has an automatic gearbox and quattro.
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Genuine VAG G12Evo coolant G12E050A2 1.0l
Genuine G12evo coolant. Change it every third heating season.
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- Routine servicing at Das Auto Service
- Complete engine rebuilds
- 2.0 TFSI burning oil and whistling: crankcase ventilation problem
- 1.8 and 2.0 TSI (EA888 Gen3): water pump and thermostat leaks
- 2.0 TFSI (EA113 and EA888 Gen1): worn fuel pump cam follower
- Audi A4 B8 2.0 TDI service schedule
- Audi A4 B9 2.0 TFSI service schedule
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for the A4 B8 2.0 TFSI to use oil?
A little oil consumption is normal. But if you're having to top it up more and more often, we need to take a look at the engine. Don't wait until it becomes a serious problem.
Does the 2.0 TFSI have a timing chain?
Yes, it has a timing chain. We can use diagnostics to check how much the chain has stretched.
How often should I change the engine oil?
I recommend changing the oil and filter every 10,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Don't put it off.