The 6.0-liter 12-cylinder Audi BHT A8 W12 engine was produced from 2003 to 2010 and was installed on expensive trim levels of the A8 sedan in the back of the D3, including the extended version of the A8L. Other modifications of this motor under the BTE and BSB indices were also installed on this model.
EA398 family: BHT, BRN, CEJA, BDN.
Specifications
| Production years | 2003-2010 |
| Displacement, cc | 5998 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 450 |
| Torque output, Nm | 580 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum W12 |
| Block head | aluminum 48v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 84 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 90.3 |
| Compression ratio | 10.75 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | on all shafts |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 12.5 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Audi A8L 2005) — city — highway — combined |
20.4 10.8 14.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~240 000 |
The engine was installed on:
- Audi A8 D3 (4E) in 2003 – 2010.
Disadvantages of the Audi BHT engine
- Closely monitor the cooling system, this motor is very afraid of overheating;
- Frequent overheating and low-quality oil lead to the formation of scoring in the cylinders;
- Raised cylinders begin to knock and immediately there is a large oil consumption;
- If you miss the drop in oil pressure, it will turn the liners pretty quickly;
- The timing chain drive has a limited resource, and for replacement you need to remove the engine.
Frequently asked questions about the Audi BHT
How much power does the Audi BHT make?
The Audi BHT develops 450 hp and 580 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Audi BHT take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 12.5 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Audi BHT have a timing belt or chain?
The Audi BHT uses a timing chain.
Is the Audi BHT turbocharged?
No, the Audi BHT is naturally aspirated.
Does the Audi BHT need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Audi BHT has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Audi BHT last?
The typical lifespan of the Audi BHT is ~240 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Audi BHT?
Audi A8L 2005: city 20.4, highway 10.8, combined 14.7 L/100 km.
What cars was the Audi BHT installed on?
Audi A8 D3 (4E) in 2003 - 2010.
What are the common problems of the Audi BHT?
Closely monitor the cooling system, this motor is very afraid of overheating. Frequent overheating and low-quality oil lead to the formation of scoring in the cylinders. All known problems.
