How Much Oil an Audi S5 V8 Takes

An Audi S5 with the 4.2-liter V8 engine takes approximately 8.8 US quarts (8.3 liters) of engine oil with a filter change, according to Audi specifications and major service data sources. This relatively high capacity reflects the engine’s larger displacement and performance-oriented design, and it’s important for owners to use the correct oil type and fill amount to ensure reliability and longevity.

Understanding the Audi S5 V8 Engine

The Audi S5 V8 refers specifically to early model years of the S5 coupe that used the naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine, commonly found in model years around 2008–2012 (depending on market). Later S5 models switched to supercharged or turbocharged V6 engines, which have different oil capacities. Verifying which engine you have is essential before relying on any oil-fill figure.

Model Years and Engine Code

Most Audi S5 V8s are equipped with the 4.2 FSI V8 engine, often designated by engine codes like CAUA/CAUB (varies by region and exact model year). This is the same engine family used in some S4 and A8 models, known for its high-revving nature and relatively large oil sump, which is designed to aid cooling and lubrication under spirited driving.

Official Oil Capacity for the Audi S5 4.2 V8

For the 4.2-liter V8 in the Audi S5, the widely cited manufacturer specification for an oil change—including a new oil filter—is about 8.8 US quarts (roughly 8.3 liters). This is an approximate value; the exact figure in documentation is often expressed in liters and may be rounded slightly when converted to quarts.

Breakdown of the Capacity

From service manuals and dealership service information, the capacity is typically listed in liters first. Owners and independent shops often convert these to quarts and gallons for convenience, which explains slight discrepancies you may see online. Nonetheless, the practical working value is stable across sources.

The following list summarizes typical oil capacity figures you’ll see for the Audi S5 V8:

• Engine: 4.2-liter V8 FSI (Audi S5 V8, ~2008–2012)
• Capacity with filter: ~8.3 liters ≈ 8.8 US quarts
• Capacity without filter: Slightly less (typically a few tenths of a liter/quart lower)
• Typical fill practice: Add slightly under the full spec, then top off to the dipstick or MMI reading
• Check method: Use the dipstick (if equipped) or MMI oil-level display after the engine has run and then rested

These figures provide a reliable working range for DIY servicing, but they should always be fine-tuned using the dipstick or onboard measurement system to avoid running the engine under- or over-filled.

Recommended Oil Type and Specification

Knowing how much oil the S5 V8 takes is only half the equation; using the correct oil type and specification is just as important for proper engine health. Audi specifies certain performance standards that oils must meet to withstand high temperatures, extended drain intervals, and direct-injection engine demands.

Viscosity and Standards

For most climates and driving conditions, a fully synthetic 5W-40 or 0W-40 oil that meets Audi/VW specifications is recommended. These oils are designed to handle the heat and stress of the high-revving V8 while providing good cold-start protection.

The key specifications and options can be summarized as follows:

• Viscosity (common choices): 5W-40, 0W-40 fully synthetic
• Manufacturer spec: VW 502 00 (and, in some cases, VW 504 00 / 507 00 depending on market and service interval policy)
• Typical brands: Castrol, Mobil 1, Liqui Moly, Motul, and others that clearly state VW/Audi approval on the label
• Service intervals: Often around 10,000 miles / 15,000 km or 1 year on long-life intervals, but many enthusiasts prefer 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) for added protection
• Special consideration: High-performance or track use may justify more frequent changes and high-temperature-stable oils

By combining the correct capacity with an oil that meets or exceeds Audi’s specifications, owners build a strong foundation for reliable performance from the S5’s 4.2-liter V8.

How to Fill and Check Oil Correctly

Given the relatively large capacity, it’s important not to simply pour in the full amount in one go and assume it is correct. Proper procedure helps avoid over-filling, which can cause foaming, increased crankcase pressure, and potential damage.

Step-by-Step Approach

The process for refilling the Audi S5 V8 with oil follows basic principles common to modern engines, but the large sump means you should proceed carefully, measuring as you go.

The main steps and checkpoints are outlined below:

1. Drain old oil completely: Warm the engine, shut it off, remove the drain plug, and allow oil to drain fully; replace the drain plug with a new washer if required.
2. Replace the oil filter: Install a new filter and ensure the housing or filter mount is properly sealed and torqued.
3. Add most of the capacity: Pour in about 7.5–8.0 quarts (around 7.1–7.6 liters) initially, staying slightly below the listed maximum.
4. Start and run briefly: Start the engine and let it idle for 30–60 seconds so oil circulates and fills the new filter; then shut the engine off.
5. Allow oil to settle: Wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the sump to get an accurate level reading.
6. Check the level: Use the dipstick (if equipped) or MMI display, aiming for near the middle-to-upper portion of the acceptable range, not above the maximum line.
7. Top off incrementally: Add oil in small increments (100–200 ml at a time) until the level reaches the proper mark.

Following this measured process ensures the S5 V8 ends up with the correct oil volume, avoiding under-filling, which can cause accelerated wear, or over-filling, which can lead to aerated oil and possible mechanical issues.

Why the S5 V8 Uses So Much Oil

The 4.2-liter V8 in the Audi S5 is larger and more performance-focused than typical four-cylinder engines, so a capacity of about 8.8 quarts can surprise first-time owners. However, there are sound engineering reasons for this figure, tied to thermal management and lubrication under load.

Thermal Management and Performance

A larger oil volume helps the engine control temperatures, especially during spirited driving or extended high-speed cruising. More oil means more thermal mass to absorb heat, as well as more lubricant in circulation to protect moving parts such as camshafts, crankshaft bearings, and piston skirts.

The main functional advantages of this large capacity include:

• Improved cooling: More oil absorbs and dissipates more heat, aiding engine longevity.
• Better lubrication under load: High-performance driving and high RPMs demand a stable lubricating film, which benefits from a larger oil supply.
• Longer service intervals: With more oil, contaminants are diluted over a larger volume, supporting longer change intervals (when using approved oils).
• Reduced risk of starvation: Under cornering or braking, a larger sump and proper baffling help keep the oil pickup submerged.

These design choices reflect Audi’s intention for the S5 V8 to deliver both everyday usability and strong high-speed performance, with oil capacity tuned for stability rather than minimalism.

Common Owner Questions and Practical Tips

Beyond the raw capacity number, S5 V8 owners often have recurring questions about oil consumption, top-ups, and what is normal for this engine as it ages.

Oil Consumption and Top-Ups

It is not unusual for performance-oriented V8s, especially as they get older and accumulate mileage, to consume some oil between service intervals. Audi historically has stated that a certain level of consumption can be considered within normal limits, though drivers should monitor their engines carefully.

Owners and technicians generally advise the following practices:

• Monitor regularly: Check oil level at least once a month or every 1,000–1,500 miles (1,600–2,400 km), whichever comes first.
• Keep a spare liter/quart: Carry a small bottle of the correct spec oil in the trunk for quick top-ups when traveling.
• Note patterns: Track how much oil you add between services; a sudden increase in consumption can indicate developing issues, such as leaks or internal wear.
• Stay within spec: Only top up with oil that meets the same VW/Audi standards and viscosity as your main fill to avoid compatibility issues.

By watching consumption patterns and using only appropriate top-up oil, owners can catch problems early and maintain the intended protection levels for their engines.

Summary

An Audi S5 equipped with the 4.2-liter V8 engine takes about 8.8 US quarts (approximately 8.3 liters) of fully synthetic engine oil during a change with filter. This relatively large capacity is deliberate, supporting high-performance use, better temperature control, and longer service intervals. Owners should confirm they have the V8 model (not the later V6 versions), use oil that meets Audi/VW specifications (such as VW 502 00 in a 5W-40 or 0W-40 grade), and fill carefully—adding slightly under the full capacity and then adjusting based on the dipstick or MMI reading. Regular level checks and proper top-ups help ensure the S5’s V8 delivers the performance and durability it was engineered to provide.

What kind of oil does an Audi S5 V8 take?

Notes: 5W-40-HP2, With VW 502.00 Spec.

How much oil does a 5.0 V8 take?

The 5.0L V8 engine oil capacity is typically 7.7 quarts (7.3 liters) for most Ford F-150s, but some models, like the 2020 F-150, can require 8.8 quarts (8.3 liters), especially with certain filters and when using full synthetic oil. The specific amount depends on the year and model, so it is best to consult your owner’s manual or check the oil filler cap for the exact capacity. 
Specific capacities by model

• Ford F-150 (most years): 7.7 quarts (with oil filter)
• 2020 Ford F-150: 8.8 quarts (with filter)
• Land Rover Range Rover (5.0L): 8.5 quarts (with filter) 

Important considerations

• Always check your owner’s manual: The owner’s manual provides the most accurate information for your specific vehicle. 
• Check the oil filler cap: The capacity is often listed directly on the oil filler cap. 
• Add the correct amount: Use the specified amount and then check the dipstick to confirm the level. Overfilling can be as harmful as underfilling. 

How much oil does an Audi S5 take?

The Audi S5 oil capacity is 7.7 quarts (7.28 liters) for most models with the 3.0L turbo engine, which requires a 0W-20 synthetic oil. The 4.2L V8 models have a different capacity of approximately 9.3 quarts (9 liters) and may use a different viscosity oil like 5W-40. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact capacity and oil specification for your specific year and engine. 

Engine	Oil Capacity
3.0L Turbo V6	7.7 quarts / 7.28 liters
4.2L V8	~9.3 quarts / ~9 liters

(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector(“div”);var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName(“g-left-button”)[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName(“g-right-button”)[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp(“\\btHT0l\\b”),f=RegExp(“\\bpQXcHc\\b”),a.className=a.className.replace(e,””),b.className=b.className.replace(e,””),h===0?a.className=”pQXcHc “+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,””),k&&c.classList.add(“pA30Ne”)),h===g?b.className=”pQXcHc “+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,””),k&&c.classList.add(“FpCCub”)),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=” tHT0l”;b.className+=” tHT0l”},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id=’_PKUoadX9M8OB9u8P6IWx8Aw_137′;var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
Important considerations:

• Year and engine: Oil capacity can vary significantly between model years and engine types. The 7.7-quart figure is common for the 3.0T engine found in recent models. 
• Oil type: Newer models with the 3.0T engine specifically call for a 0W-20 synthetic oil that meets the VW 508 00 specification. Older models with the 4.2L V8 might require a different viscosity like 5W-40. 
• Checking the level: After adding oil, check the level using the vehicle’s electronic monitor or a dipstick (if equipped) to ensure it is within the correct range. 

How much oil does a 4.2 V8 Audi S5 take?

9.3 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.