How Much Oil a 2018 Audi S5 Takes

The 2018 Audi S5 typically takes about 7.2 quarts (6.8 liters) of engine oil with a filter change, using VW 502 00–approved 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic oil. This figure applies to the standard 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 used in North American and most global 2018 S5 models, though owners should always confirm capacity and oil spec in their specific owner’s manual.

Understanding the 2018 Audi S5’s Engine and Oil Needs

The 2018 Audi S5 is powered by a 3.0L TFSI turbocharged V6 (engine code CWGD/DETA, depending on market), a high-performance powerplant that requires a relatively large volume of high-quality synthetic oil. This larger capacity helps with cooling, lubrication under high load, and longevity—especially important given the engine’s turbocharging and performance orientation.

Official Oil Capacity for the 2018 Audi S5

For most 2018 Audi S5 models with the 3.0L TFSI V6, the engine oil capacity with a filter change is approximately:

• 7.2 US quarts
• 6.8 liters

These figures are a practical working capacity, meaning what you typically add during a normal oil and filter change. Always confirm with the dipstick or electronic oil level indicator after filling, and adjust slightly if needed to reach the correct level.

Oil Specification and Viscosity Requirements

The 2018 Audi S5 uses a modern, turbocharged direct-injection engine that relies on specific oil standards set by Volkswagen Group. Using the wrong oil can lead to increased wear, deposits, or even turbo and timing component issues over time.

Required Oil Specification

The key requirement is that the oil meets the appropriate VW/Audi approval standard.

The following list outlines the most important specifications and how they apply to the 2018 S5:

• VW 502 00: This is the primary gasoline-engine oil specification required for the 2018 S5 in most markets. Any oil you use should clearly state VW 502 00 approval on the label.
• VW 504 00: In some regions, especially Europe, a VW 504 00–approved oil may also be acceptable; it is a newer long-life spec that can be backward-compatible, but owners should follow the guidance in their specific regional manual.
• Avoid non-approved oil: “Meets requirements of” or “recommended for” is not the same as official approval. Priority should be given to oils that explicitly list VW 502 00 (or 504 00 if the manual allows).

Ensuring compliance with the correct VW specification is often more critical than brand choice, as this standard is designed around the engine’s real-world operating conditions.

Recommended Viscosity Grades

Viscosity affects how oil flows at different temperatures, and Audi provides a range to accommodate various climates.

The following bullet points summarize the common viscosity grades suitable for the 2018 S5 when paired with the proper VW 502 00 (or 504 00, if allowed) specification:

• 0W-40: A common and widely recommended choice, offering strong cold-start performance and high-temperature protection. Suitable for a broad range of climates, including cold winters.
• 5W-40: Also widely accepted and often used in moderate to warm climates, providing robust high-temperature protection and stability under spirited driving.
• 0W-30 or 5W-30: May be specified in some regions when paired with VW 504 00; however, many enthusiasts prefer 40-weight oils for harder driving and hotter environments.

When in doubt, a high-quality, VW 502 00–approved 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic oil is a safe and widely supported choice for the 2018 S5.

How to Verify the Correct Oil Capacity for Your Specific S5

While 7.2 quarts (6.8 liters) is the standard figure for the 3.0L TFSI V6, small variations can arise from production differences, residual oil in the system, or regional variants. It is best practice to verify capacity and fill level in more than one way.

Steps to Confirm Capacity and Fill Level

The following steps outline a careful approach to confirming correct oil level after a change, regardless of the published capacity.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look in the “Capacities” or “Fluids” section for engine oil capacity with filter change; note any footnotes or regional differences.
2. Start by adding slightly less than full capacity: For example, pour in about 6.5–6.8 quarts (6.2–6.4 liters) instead of the full 7.2 quarts.
3. Run the engine briefly: Start the engine, let it idle 1–2 minutes to circulate oil and fill the filter, then shut it off and wait a few minutes for oil to settle.
4. Check the dipstick or electronic level: Use the dipstick (if equipped) or the MMI/electronic level readout; aim for somewhere between the minimum and maximum marks, ideally near the upper range without exceeding it.
5. Top off gradually: Add oil in small increments (around 0.1–0.2 quart or 100–200 ml) until the level is correct, rechecking each time.

This method ensures you do not overfill the engine, which can cause foaming, increased crankcase pressure, and potential seal or catalyst issues.

Why Oil Capacity Matters for the 2018 S5

In a performance car like the 2018 Audi S5, oil isn’t just a lubricant; it’s also a critical cooling and protective medium, especially under the high temperatures and pressures of turbocharged operation.

Key Reasons Adequate Oil Volume Is Critical

The following points highlight why respecting the correct capacity and level is important for long-term reliability and performance.

• Heat management: More oil volume helps absorb and dissipate heat generated by the turbocharger and high-compression combustion, reducing thermal stress on components.
• Lubrication under high g-forces: During hard acceleration, braking, and cornering, sufficient oil volume reduces the risk of oil starvation in critical areas such as turbo bearings and camshafts.
• Longer oil life: A larger oil quantity dilutes contaminants and slows degradation, helping the oil maintain its protective properties over the service interval.
• Protection of timing components: Modern Audi V6 engines rely heavily on proper lubrication of timing chains and tensioners; running low on oil can accelerate wear and lead to expensive repairs.

Keeping your S5 filled with the correct quantity and quality of oil is one of the most effective ways to preserve its performance and durability.

Service Intervals and Practical Owner Tips

Audi’s official maintenance schedule often features longer oil change intervals, but driving style and environment may justify more frequent changes for optimal engine health.

Recommended Change Intervals

The following guidelines reflect typical recommendations and enthusiast best practices for a 2018 Audi S5 using approved synthetic oil.

• Factory interval: Commonly around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on region and service schedule.
• Enthusiast/“severe use” practice: Many owners opt for 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) intervals, especially with frequent short trips, track use, or spirited driving.
• Time-based changes: Even with low mileage, changing oil at least once a year is recommended to address moisture and fuel dilution.

Adjusting intervals based on how and where you drive can significantly improve the long-term condition of the engine and turbocharger.

Practical Ownership Tips

Beyond simply filling the correct amount, there are a few habits that can help you get the most from each oil change.

The following tips summarize practical ways to manage oil in a 2018 Audi S5:

• Monitor consumption: Some turbocharged Audi engines can use noticeable amounts of oil between services; check the level every few fuel fills, especially on road trips.
• Warm up gently: Avoid full-throttle acceleration and high RPMs until oil temperature has risen to normal operating range; this allows proper lubrication and reduces wear.
• Cool down after hard driving: After extended high-load driving, allow a brief period of lighter driving or idling to let the turbo and oil temperature stabilize.
• Use a quality filter: Stick to OEM (Audi/VW) or high-quality aftermarket filters specifically designed for this engine to ensure proper flow and filtration.

These habits complement the correct oil type and capacity, helping ensure the S5’s engine remains responsive and reliable over time.

Summary

The 2018 Audi S5’s 3.0L TFSI V6 engine typically requires about 7.2 US quarts (6.8 liters) of engine oil with a filter change, filled with a high-quality synthetic oil that is explicitly approved to VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 where allowed). Owners should verify capacity in the vehicle’s manual, fill slightly under the published figure, then top off based on the dipstick or electronic level indicator to avoid overfilling. Choosing the correct specification and viscosity—commonly 0W-40 or 5W-40—and maintaining reasonable service intervals are essential to protecting the turbocharged V6 and preserving the performance that defines the S5.