How Many Quarts of Oil Does an Audi Q3 Need?

An Audi Q3 typically takes between 5.7 and 6.0 quarts of engine oil (about 5.4–5.7 liters), depending on the engine and model year. Most recent U.S.-spec Q3 models with the 2.0L TFSI engine require roughly 5.8–6.0 quarts when changing oil and filter. However, the exact capacity can vary slightly, so owners should always confirm with the owner’s manual or official Audi documentation.

Why Oil Capacity Varies in the Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 is sold worldwide with different engines and technical configurations, which means its oil capacity is not one fixed number. Differences in engine displacement, internal design, oil pan shape, and emissions equipment lead to small but important variations in how much oil each version holds. As a result, the correct answer depends on the specific engine code and model year.

Typical Oil Capacities by Engine and Model Year

The following sections outline the most common oil capacities for Audi Q3 models, focusing on the engines most widely sold in North America and Europe. These figures refer to an oil change with the oil filter replaced.

North American Audi Q3 (Gasoline 2.0 TFSI)

In North America, the Q3 has predominantly been sold with 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engines. These are the most common capacities owners will encounter.

The list below summarizes typical oil capacity ranges for recent U.S./Canadian Audi Q3 models with 2.0 TFSI engines.

• 2015–2018 Audi Q3 2.0 TFSI (Gen 1 Q3, 8U chassis): Approx. 5.7–5.8 quarts (about 5.4–5.5 L)
• 2019 Audi Q3 2.0 TFSI (start of Gen 2, F3 chassis – often badged 2.0T / 45 TFSI): Approx. 5.8–6.0 quarts (about 5.5–5.7 L)
• 2020–2024 Audi Q3 2.0 TFSI (including 40 TFSI / 45 TFSI variants): Typically around 5.8–6.0 quarts (about 5.5–5.7 L)

These values are representative, but minor changes in engine design, filter size, or software updates can produce small variations, which is why Audi always recommends referencing the exact spec in the owner’s manual.

European and Global Audi Q3 Engines

Outside North America, the Q3 has been available with a broader range of gasoline and diesel engines; each has its own oil capacity, though most stay in roughly the same 5–6 quart range.

The following list outlines approximate capacities for some typical engines offered in Europe and other markets. Values are rounded and may differ slightly by engine code and production year.

• 1.4 TFSI / 1.5 TFSI (various years): Around 4.2–4.8 quarts (4.0–4.5 L)
• 2.0 TFSI (various power outputs): Around 5.7–6.0 quarts (5.4–5.7 L)
• 2.0 TDI (diesel): Commonly around 4.8–5.7 quarts (4.5–5.4 L) depending on version
• High-performance variants (e.g., older RS Q3 2.5 TFSI): Often around 6.3–6.8 quarts (6.0–6.5 L)

While most Q3 engines cluster around a similar capacity range, the presence of diesel engines, mild-hybrid technology, or performance upgrades means capacities can differ, reinforcing the importance of checking the engine-specific data.

How to Confirm the Exact Oil Capacity for Your Audi Q3

Because oil capacity can vary by engine code, market, and production date, the most reliable information comes from Audi’s official documentation for your specific vehicle.

The following points explain the best ways to verify the correct capacity for your individual Q3.

1. Owner’s Manual: Check the “Capacities” or “Fluids” section; it usually lists engine oil capacity with and without filter.
2. Service Booklet or Digital Service Plan: Technicians’ reference data may be included or accessible via Audi’s service systems.
3. Dealer or Authorized Audi Service Center: Provide your VIN and ask for the official oil capacity and oil specification.
4. Under-hood Labels or Engine Bay Stickers: Some markets provide basic oil spec labels, though not always the full capacity.
5. Reputable Service Databases: Professional workshop tools (e.g., Audi’s ElsaPro system) list engine-specific fill quantities.

Using these sources ensures you do not rely on generic figures and helps avoid overfilling or underfilling, both of which can harm the engine over time.

Practical Tips for Changing Oil in an Audi Q3

Even if you know the approximate capacity, best practice is to fill cautiously and verify level, rather than dumping in the full amount at once.

The steps below explain a careful approach when changing the oil in a Q3, whether you are doing it yourself or checking a shop’s work.

1. Start with slightly less than the specified capacity: For example, if the spec is about 5.8 quarts, start with around 5.3–5.5 quarts.
2. Run the engine briefly: Let it idle for a minute or two so the new oil circulates and fills the filter and passages.
3. Wait a few minutes: Turn off the engine and allow oil to drain back into the pan before checking the level.
4. Check the dipstick or electronic gauge: Confirm where the oil level sits relative to the MIN and MAX markers.
5. Top up in small increments: Add oil 0.1–0.2 quart (100–200 ml) at a time until the level is just under or at MAX, never above it.

This incremental approach reduces the risk of overfilling, which can cause foaming, increased crankcase pressure, and possible leaks or catalyst damage.

Correct Oil Type and Service Intervals

Knowing how much oil the engine needs is only part of proper maintenance. Using the correct oil specification and observing service intervals is just as important for the longevity of an Audi Q3 engine.

The points below summarize the essential oil-spec and service-interval considerations for modern Q3 models.

• Oil specification: Most modern Q3 engines require oil meeting Audi/VW norms such as VW 502 00, 504 00, or 505 00/507 00 (diesel). The exact spec depends on engine and region.
• Viscosity: Common viscosities include 0W-20 or 0W-30 / 5W-30, again depending on engine and climate, and must align with the approved VW specification.
• Change intervals: Many Q3s use a flexible (long-life) interval up to roughly 10,000 miles / 15,000 km or about 1 year, but harsh driving may require more frequent changes.
• Warranty and longevity: Using non-approved oil or stretching intervals can jeopardize warranty coverage and accelerate wear on turbocharged engines.

Matching the correct specification and interval to your Q3’s engine helps ensure that the 5.7–6.0 quarts of oil you add perform as Audi intended across hot and cold conditions.

Common Owner Questions About Audi Q3 Oil Capacity

Drivers often have similar practical questions once they start looking into oil capacity and servicing for the Q3.

The points below address frequent concerns related to capacity and maintenance.

• Is a small difference from the official capacity a problem? Being off by a small margin (a few hundred milliliters) is usually not critical as long as the level sits between MIN and MAX on the dipstick/electronic gauge.
• What if I slightly overfill? A minor overfill may not be catastrophic, but consistently running above MAX can damage seals, the catalytic converter, and other components; excess oil should be drained.
• Why does the manual sometimes show two capacities? Manuals may list “with filter” and “without filter” capacities; standard oil changes include the filter, so use that higher figure as your reference.
• Do I need to use the exact amount every time? You should treat the official capacity as a target, but the final arbiter is the oil level reading after filling and running the engine.

Understanding these nuances helps owners interpret capacity figures as guidelines to reach a correct level, rather than fixed amounts to pour blindly.

Summary

Most Audi Q3 models with the widely used 2.0L TFSI gasoline engine hold about 5.7–6.0 quarts of oil with the filter changed. Other global engines, including smaller TFSI and various TDI diesels, typically fall within a 4.2–6.8 quart range depending on displacement and design. The exact capacity for any specific Q3 is best confirmed through the owner’s manual or an authorized Audi service center using the vehicle’s VIN. When changing oil, filling cautiously, verifying the level, and using the correct VW-approved oil specification are crucial steps to protect the engine and maintain reliability.

What kind of oil does a 2019 Audi Q3 take?

The 2019 Audi Q3 requires a full synthetic 0W-20 engine oil that meets the VW 508.00 specification. This is a specific requirement for the 2019 model year, and other specifications like 5W-30 may be used for different years. It is essential to use a synthetic oil that has the correct VW 508.00 approval. 

• Oil Viscosity: 0W-20
• Oil Specification: VW 508.00
• Oil Type: Full Synthetic
• Capacity: Approximately 6 quarts (with filter change)

How much to fill an Audi Q3?

Filling Up

Tank Size	58 litres
Cost to fill	£78.10

How many quarts of oil for Audi Q3?

The Audi Q3 oil capacity varies by model year and engine, but a 2.0L turbo engine in a newer model (2021+) typically requires 6 quarts of oil, while an older 2.0L Quattro (like the 2018) may need 4.8 quarts. Always check your owner’s manual for the specific amount for your vehicle. 

• For newer 2.0L Turbo models (e.g., 2021-2024): The capacity is approximately 6 quarts when replacing the filter. The recommended oil is 0W-20 for most conditions. 
• For older 2.0L Quattro models (e.g., 2018): The capacity is around 4.8 quarts with a filter change. The recommended oil is 5W-40. 
• General advice: Always check your owner’s manual for the precise oil capacity and viscosity for your specific year and engine. 

Which oil is best for Audi Q3?

The best oil for an Audi Q3 is a high-quality full synthetic oil that meets Audi’s specific European specifications, typically 0W-20 or 0W-30, depending on the model year and climate. Always check your owner’s manual for the precise specification and viscosity grade required, as using the wrong oil can cause engine damage. Trusted brands include Mobil 1, Castrol, and Liqui Moly.
 
Recommended oil

• Viscosity: The most common recommendations are 0W-20 or 0W-30, though older models or certain climates may require 5W-30 or 5W-40. 
• Type: Use full synthetic motor oil for optimal performance and protection. 
• Specification: Ensure the oil meets the specific European standards required by Audi, such as VW 504 00/507 00 or VW 502 00, which you can find in your owner’s manual. 

Examples of recommended brands

• Mobil 1: Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 is a good choice for many Audi engines. 
• Castrol: Castrol EDGE 5W-40 is a recommended option that meets VW 502 00 standards. 
• Liqui Moly: Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 is a German-engineered oil designed for Audi engines. 
• AMSOIL: AMSOIL offers various European-spec full synthetic oils, such as their 0W-40 or 5W-40 options. 

Important considerations

• Consult your owner’s manual: This is the most critical step, as it will provide the exact specifications your Q3 needs. 
• Be aware of climate: While some oils are suitable for all-year use, you might consider a slightly thicker oil like 0W-30 in hotter climates or for a newer engine that might benefit from more protection, according to some users. 
• Synthetic is best: Synthetic oils offer better performance and protection, especially in turbocharged engines like those in many Audi Q3s.