How Much Oil the B9 Audi S4 Takes

The B9 Audi S4 typically takes about 6.6 quarts (6.2 liters) of engine oil with a filter change, though exact capacity can vary slightly by model year and market. Owners should always verify with the service manual or under‑hood label for the precise specification.

Understanding the B9 S4’s Engine and Oil Requirements

The B9-generation Audi S4, sold from roughly 2017 onward (depending on market), is powered by a 3.0‑liter turbocharged V6 (EA839). This engine is engineered for high performance and relies on a relatively large oil capacity to maintain proper cooling, lubrication, and durability—especially under spirited driving. Knowing the correct fill quantity is crucial to avoid both underfilling and overfilling, which can each lead to mechanical issues.

Official Oil Capacity for the B9 Audi S4

For most B9 S4 models equipped with the 3.0 TFSI V6 (EA839), the factory-specified oil capacity is as follows when changing the oil and filter:

The following list outlines the common factory oil capacity numbers for the B9 S4 across typical model years and markets.

• Approximate capacity (with filter): 6.6 US quarts
• Metric equivalent: Approximately 6.2 liters
• Dry fill (fully empty engine): Slightly higher than service fill, typically not relevant for routine service
• Variation by market/year: Some manuals round to 6.5–6.7 quarts (about 6.1–6.3 liters), but 6.6 quarts/6.2 liters is the commonly cited service figure
• Oil filter change: Capacity figure assumes the oil filter is replaced at the same time

These numbers reflect typical service-fill quantities; technicians usually add slightly less than the listed maximum and then top up gradually after checking the electronic level readout.

Recommended Oil Type and Specification

Capacity is only part of the equation; the B9 S4 also requires oil that meets specific performance and emissions standards. Audi specifies particular viscosity and approvals, especially for vehicles under warranty or equipped with gasoline particulate filters (GPF) in some markets.

Viscosity and Approvals

The B9 S4’s 3.0 TFSI engine is designed to run on synthetic oil that meets Audi/VW’s proprietary standards.

The following list summarizes the typical oil spec and viscosity requirements for a B9 S4 in most regions.

• Viscosity (common): 0W‑20 or 0W‑30 in newer manuals; earlier documentation and many independent shops still favor 5W‑40 (especially in hotter climates or performance use)
• VW/Audi approvals:
  

  • VW 508 00 / 509 00 for many late‑model B9 S4s (low‑viscosity, long‑life oils)
  • VW 502 00 / 505 00 or VW 504 00 / 507 00 sometimes cited in documentation or for certain markets and earlier B9 build ranges

• Type: Fully synthetic engine oil only
• Climate consideration: In very hot or track-use conditions, some specialists prefer higher-viscosity (e.g., 5W‑40) that still meets Audi/VW approvals, but this can deviate from strict factory recommendations

Because part numbers and recommended specifications can change with technical service bulletins and regional regulations, owners should confirm current requirements in their model-year service booklet or Audi’s online resources.

How Much Oil to Pour During an Oil Change

Even with a published capacity, filling a turbocharged performance engine like the B9 S4’s should be done with care. The electronic dipstick system means you can’t simply eyeball a traditional dipstick, and overfilling is a common mistake for DIY owners.

Step-by-Step Filling Strategy

The next list explains a conservative approach to filling oil in a B9 S4 to avoid overfilling while still reaching the correct level.

1. Start below the spec: Pour about 5.7–6.0 quarts (roughly 5.4–5.7 liters) after fully draining the oil and replacing the filter.
2. Run the engine briefly: Start the car, let it idle for 1–2 minutes, then shut it off and wait several minutes for oil to settle.
3. Check electronic level: Use the MMI (infotainment) oil level display or the instrument cluster, as equipped, following the vehicle’s instructions.
4. Top up gradually: Add oil in small increments (about 0.2–0.3 quarts or 0.2–0.3 liters), rechecking the level each time.
5. Aim for the upper safe range: Stop once the display indicates the level is near the top of the acceptable range, without exceeding it.

This incremental method usually results in a final amount close to the published 6.6‑quart (6.2‑liter) figure while minimizing the chance of exceeding the maximum level.

Why Accurate Oil Capacity Matters for the B9 S4

Modern turbocharged engines like the EA839 in the B9 S4 operate under high thermal and mechanical loads. The correct oil volume is essential for both performance and engine longevity, particularly in a vehicle often driven enthusiastically.

Risks of Underfilling or Overfilling

The following list highlights the key risks associated with incorrect oil levels in a B9 S4.

• Underfilling:
  

  • Reduced lubrication under high load or during hard cornering
  • Higher oil temperatures and accelerated oil breakdown
  • Increased wear on turbocharger bearings and internal engine components

• Overfilling:
  

  • Oil aeration (foaming) leading to reduced lubrication effectiveness
  • Potential catalyst and particulate filter contamination from oil ingestion
  • In extreme cases, risk of leaks, seal damage, or misfire issues due to oil entering the intake

• Electronic monitoring dependence: The absence of a traditional dipstick means relying on the car’s sensors, making precise filling even more important.

Maintaining the level within the manufacturer’s specified range is thus a core part of keeping the B9 S4’s engine performing safely and reliably over time.

Service Intervals and Practical Ownership Tips

While Audi often promotes extended oil-change intervals for convenience and marketing, many enthusiasts and independent specialists recommend more conservative practices for the B9 S4, especially if the car sees spirited or track use.

Intervals and Monitoring

The next list outlines typical service habits and monitoring practices that B9 S4 owners often follow.

• Official intervals: Commonly around 10,000 miles (15,000 km) or 12 months in many markets, though this can vary by year and region.
• Enthusiast approach: Many owners change oil every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km), particularly if tuned or driven hard.
• Regular checks: Monitor the electronic level display at least once every few weeks or before long trips.
• Top‑ups: Keep a small amount (1 quart or 1 liter) of the correct-spec oil in the trunk for occasional top-up between services if needed.
• Warm-up habits: Allow the engine to reach operating temperature before heavy throttle to reduce oil-related stress, especially on the turbo.

By combining appropriate service intervals with attentive monitoring and correct oil specification, B9 S4 owners can help mitigate common wear issues and preserve performance.

Summary

The B9 Audi S4’s 3.0‑liter turbocharged V6 typically requires about 6.6 US quarts (6.2 liters) of fully synthetic engine oil with a filter change, though owners should confirm exact figures in their specific model-year manual. Using oil that meets current Audi/VW approvals—often VW 508 00/509 00 for late-model cars—and filling cautiously up to, but not beyond, the recommended level is crucial. Given the engine’s performance nature and reliance on an electronic oil-level system, careful filling, regular monitoring, and sensible change intervals are central to maintaining reliability and protecting this turbocharged powertrain.