What Engine Oil Should You Use for an Audi A7?

For most modern Audi A7 models, the correct engine oil is a fully synthetic oil that meets the official VW/Audi 504 00 / 507 00 specifications, typically in 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosity, but the exact choice depends on engine type, model year and regional climate; always confirm with the owner’s manual or a dealer using your VIN.

Why Engine Oil Choice Matters for the Audi A7

The Audi A7 is a premium fastback that combines performance with long service intervals, advanced emissions systems and turbocharged engines. All of this makes oil choice more critical than in many older or simpler cars. Using the wrong oil can accelerate engine wear, damage the turbocharger, clog the particulate filter, or even void warranty or extended coverage. Choosing the correct specification is more important than simply picking a brand or generic “synthetic” label.

Official Audi/VW Oil Specifications for the A7

Audi does not approve oil based only on viscosity; it certifies oils under specific VW/Audi standards that account for high-temperature stability, low ash content, compatibility with emissions systems and extended drain intervals. For the A7, several key specifications recur across engines and years.

Core Specifications for Most Modern A7 Engines

The following list outlines the primary VW/Audi oil specifications commonly required for Audi A7 engines, especially in Europe and many other markets.

• VW 504 00 / 507 00 – The most common modern spec for many A7 petrol (gasoline) and diesel engines. Low-SAPS (low ash), suitable for vehicles with particulate filters and catalytic converters, designed for extended “LongLife” service intervals.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00 – Newer ultra‑low‑viscosity spec (often 0W‑20) used on some latest-generation Audi engines to improve fuel economy. Only use if explicitly stated in your manual or under the hood label.
• VW 502 00 / 505 00 – Older, still common spec for many pre‑LongLife or non‑flexible service regime engines. High‑quality fully synthetic or “HC‑synthetic” options typically in 5W‑30 or 5W‑40.
• VW 505 01 / 507 00 – Historically for certain high‑pressure diesel engines (e.g., older PD TDI designs), some early A7 diesels may reference these depending on market.

These specifications define what the oil must do inside the engine, such as surviving high temperatures and protecting emissions components. Your primary task is to match the spec listed in your Audi documentation rather than guessing based on viscosity alone.

Typical Viscosity Grades for Audi A7

While the VW/Audi spec is non‑negotiable, viscosity is usually flexible within the ranges Audi approves for temperature and operating conditions.

• 0W‑30 – Very common for newer A7 models running VW 504 00 / 507 00, especially in colder climates. Excellent cold-start protection with good high‑temperature stability.
• 5W‑30 – Widely used across many A7 petrol and diesel engines where 504 00 / 507 00 or 502 00 / 505 00 is specified. A safe “all‑rounder” in moderate climates.
• 0W‑20 – Used for some of the latest mild‑hybrid and efficiency‑focused engines under the 508 00 / 509 00 spec. Only appropriate if your engine is designed for this low viscosity.
• 5W‑40 – Sometimes permitted for hotter climates or heavy driving on older or higher‑mileage A7 engines that specify 502 00 / 505 00 and allow 5W‑40 in the temperature chart.

Viscosity affects how quickly oil circulates on cold start and how well it resists thinning when hot. However, as long as you remain within the manual’s allowed viscosity range and meet the Audi spec, you’re effectively within the safe zone.

Recommended Oil Types by Model Generation

The Audi A7 has been produced over several generations with a wide range of engines—turbocharged four‑cylinders, V6s, diesels, and performance S7/RS7 variants. Exact requirements depend heavily on model year and engine code.

First Generation (C7, 2010–2017, some markets into 2018)

For the first-generation A7, engines commonly include the 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI petrol, and 3.0 TDI diesels, plus performance S7 and early RS7 in some markets.

• Most 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI petrol: Typically specify VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 (with flexible/LongLife servicing). Preferred viscosity: 5W‑30 or 0W‑30 depending on climate and service regime.
• 3.0 TDI diesel: Often require VW 507 00 (or 504 00/507 00 combo) with low‑SAPS oil to protect the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Viscosity usually 5W‑30 or 0W‑30.
• S7 / RS7 (early models): High‑output TFSI V8 engines typically require fully synthetic oil to VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, usually in 5W‑30 or sometimes 5W‑40 for severe use.

Due to regional variations and engine updates, it is essential to confirm using the service booklet or under‑hood sticker, especially for diesel models with different emissions systems across markets.

Second Generation (C8, 2018–Present)

The second-generation A7 introduced mild‑hybrid tech in many engines and expanded the use of lower‑viscosity oils for efficiency.

• 2.0 TFSI (40/45 TFSI) and 3.0 TFSI (55 TFSI) petrol: Frequently call for VW 504 00 / 507 00 in 0W‑30 or 5W‑30, but some later engines, especially in Europe, may specify VW 508 00 (0W‑20).
• 3.0 TDI (40/45/50 TDI) diesel: Commonly require VW 504 00 / 507 00 low‑SAPS oils, usually 0W‑30 or 5W‑30; essential for protecting the DPF and SCR system.
• S7 (diesel in Europe, petrol in some markets): The European S7 TDI typically requires 504 00 / 507 00; North American petrol S7 models may specify 502 00 or 504 00, commonly in 0W‑30 or 5W‑30.
• RS7: High‑performance 4.0 TFSI V8; typically requires high‑quality fully synthetic oil meeting 502 00 or 504 00 (region‑dependent), usually in 0W‑30 or 5W‑30. In very hot climates or track use, 5W‑40 may be recommended if listed in the manual.

Because engine codes and emissions packages differ by market, owners should rely on the precise engine code and VIN-specific information rather than assuming a one‑size‑fits‑all solution for the entire C8 range.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific A7

Even with general guidelines, the safest approach is to verify oil requirements specifically for your car. Several authoritative sources can help you nail down the correct spec and viscosity.

Key Steps for Verifying the Right Oil

The steps below explain how to accurately identify the appropriate engine oil for your Audi A7 using official and trustworthy sources.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look for the “Engine Oil” or “Service” section. Audi typically prints the exact VW spec (e.g., 504 00/507 00) and a viscosity range based on temperature.
2. Read the under‑hood or oil‑cap labels: Many A7 models have a label near the radiator support or on the oil filler cap stating “Use only VW 504 00 / 507 00” or similar.
3. Use your VIN at an Audi dealer: Dealers can pull up your build data and confirm the required oil spec and any service bulletins that may have updated recommendations.
4. Use reputable oil manufacturers’ lookup tools: Brands like Castrol, Mobil 1, Shell, Liqui Moly and others provide online selectors where you enter make, model and year to see oils that meet Audi/VW approvals.
5. Check for LongLife vs fixed service intervals: If your A7 is set up for flexible/LongLife service intervals, Audi often insists on 504 00 / 507 00 oils. For fixed shorter intervals, 502 00 / 505 00 may be allowed.

Following these steps ensures that your choice is not based on guesswork or generic advice, but on data specific to your vehicle’s engine, region and service regime.

Choosing Between Oil Brands

Once you know the correct VW/Audi spec and an appropriate viscosity, brand becomes a secondary choice. Several mainstream and premium oils carry official VW approvals suitable for the A7.

Common Brands That Offer Audi‑Approved Oils

The following list highlights the types of products—rather than endorsing specific labels—that you can look for when shopping for oil for an Audi A7.

• Castrol: Often a factory partner for Audi in various markets, with multiple VW 504 00/507 00 and 508 00/509 00 approved oils in 0W‑20, 0W‑30 and 5W‑30 grades.
• Mobil 1: Offers fully synthetic oils meeting 502 00/505 00 and 504 00/507 00; widely available and popular for turbocharged engines.
• Shell Helix / Pennzoil (North America): Provide VW-approved formulations for both petrol and diesel A7 engines in the common 5W‑30 and 0W‑30 ranges.
• Liqui Moly: German specialist brand with several oils specifically formulated for VW/Audi specs, popular among enthusiasts in Europe and beyond.
• OEM-labeled Audi/VW oil: Sold at dealerships with Audi or VW branding; typically sourced from a major oil producer and guaranteed to meet the specified approvals.

Whatever brand you choose, the label must clearly state the exact VW approval (not just “recommended for” or “meets requirements of”). The wording “Approved by VW for 504 00 / 507 00” or similar is what you should be looking for.

Service Intervals, Driving Style and Oil Choice

The way you drive and how often you change your oil can influence not just the viscosity but also whether you opt for the highest‑end specification on offer.

Matching Oil Strategy to Usage

This list details how different driving conditions and habits might shape your oil and service interval choices for an Audi A7.

• LongLife/flexible intervals (often up to ~30,000 km or 2 years): Use only oils that fully comply with 504 00 / 507 00 or 508 00 / 509 00 if specified. Cheaper or non‑approved oils are risky for such long runs.
• Short, urban trips and cold starts: A 0W‑30 or 0W‑20 (if approved) can help reduce wear during frequent cold starts, where most engine wear occurs.
• High‑speed or heavy‑load driving (motorways, towing, hot climates): If the manual allows, a slightly higher hot‑viscosity (e.g., 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 in older engines) may offer better protection under sustained load.
• High‑mileage or older A7 engines: Sticking with the approved spec but choosing a slightly thicker allowed grade (e.g., 5W‑30 instead of 0W‑30) can sometimes reduce oil consumption, provided it’s permitted by Audi’s viscosity chart.
• Track use or spirited driving in S7/RS7: Many owners change oil more frequently than the official interval and may use higher‑temperature‑resistant grades, but only if expressly allowed in the manual to avoid warranty issues.

Adapting your oil choice and change interval to your usage pattern, while staying inside Audi’s specifications, helps preserve both performance and long‑term reliability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced owners sometimes make errors when selecting oil for an Audi A7. Avoiding the following pitfalls can save you from expensive repairs.

Frequent Pitfalls in A7 Oil Selection

The following points summarize the most common mistakes owners make when choosing engine oil for their Audi A7 and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring the VW/Audi specification: Picking oil based solely on viscosity (e.g., “5W‑30 is fine for any car”) and overlooking whether it’s actually certified for 504 00 / 507 00 or the spec your engine requires.
• Using generic “Euro” oil without proper approval: Some products say “suitable for VW 504/507” but lack official approval; this is not the same as being certified.
• Mixing random oils: Topping up with oil of unknown specification or different base type repeatedly can dilute the additive package and reduce protection, especially for DPF‑equipped diesels.
• Overextending oil change intervals: Relying on the absolute maximum interval even under severe conditions (short trips, dusty or hot environments) can lead to sludge or deposit formation, especially in turbocharged engines.
• Using non‑low‑SAPS oil in DPF diesels: High‑ash oils can prematurely clog the diesel particulate filter and damage emissions components.

By consistently following Audi’s documented specifications and avoiding shortcuts, you significantly reduce the risk of premature engine or emissions-system failure.

Practical Recommendation: A Simple Rule for Most Owners

For the vast majority of Audi A7 owners, especially with 2013+ vehicles, a single rule works well: use a fully synthetic oil with official VW 504 00 / 507 00 approval in 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 (whichever your manual lists first), unless your car specifically calls for the newer 508 00 / 509 00 0W‑20 oil. Change it at or before the interval shown in your service indicator, and more often if you drive in harsh conditions.

Summary

The correct engine oil for an Audi A7 depends on model year, engine and market, but in most modern cases it is a fully synthetic, low‑SAPS oil officially approved to VW 504 00 / 507 00 (or, on some latest engines, 508 00 / 509 00), typically in 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 viscosity. The key is to prioritize the VW/Audi specification printed in your manual or under the hood, not just the viscosity grade or brand. Confirm requirements via the owner’s manual, VIN-based dealer information or reputable oil-lookup tools, and match your oil choice and change interval to your driving conditions. Doing so safeguards your turbocharger, timing system and emissions hardware, preserves performance and helps your A7 deliver the long-term refinement it was engineered for.

What kind of oil does a 2019 Audi A7 take?

The 2019 Audi A7 uses 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil that meets the VW 508 00 specification. The engine capacity is approximately 8 quarts, including the filter. 

• Oil Type: Full synthetic
• Viscosity: 0W-20
• Specification: VW 508 00
• Capacity: Approximately 8 quarts (with filter)

What kind of oil does a 2018 Audi A7 take?

2016-2018: The recommended oil types for Audi A7s from 2016 to 2018 are 0W-30 and, occasionally, 5W-40, which are adaptable to colder climates.

What is Audi recommended engine oil?

Audi engines require full-synthetic oil, with common types being 5W-30, 0W-40, and 5W-40, though the specific type depends on the model and climate. The correct oil must meet specific Audi/VW specifications, such as VW 502 00, VW 504 00, or LL-01, which can be found in the owner’s manual. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact specification recommended for your vehicle. 
Common Audi oil types

• 5W-30: A common choice that balances fuel efficiency and wear protection, suitable for many engines in moderate climates.
• 0W-40: Excellent for cold climates because it provides better cold-start protection.
• 5W-40: Often recommended for higher-performance models and turbocharged engines, as it offers good protection in warmer climates. 

Why full-synthetic oil is crucial

• Audi engines are designed for the superior performance of synthetic oil. 
• Conventional oil can break down too quickly, leading to poor lubrication, sludge buildup, and potential damage to the engine and turbocharger. 

How to find the right oil

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most important step, as it lists the exact viscosity and specification required for your engine. 
• Look for Audi/VW specifications: Ensure the oil you choose meets the specific Audi or Volkswagen approval number, such as VW 502 00, VW 505.00, or LL-04. 
• Consider your climate: Choose a viscosity grade that is appropriate for your local temperature conditions. 

What kind of oil does an Audi A7 take?

An Audi A7 typically takes a full synthetic motor oil, with the specific viscosity like 5W-30 or 5W-40, and a specific Audi/Volkswagen oil specification rating (e.g., VW 502 00 or VW 507 00). It is best to check your owner’s manual for the exact requirements, as they can vary by model year and engine type. 
Key factors to consider

• Viscosity: SAE viscosity grades like 5W-30 or 5W-40 are common for gasoline engines, while 0W-20 may be used for the 2.0L TDI diesel engine. 
• Oil Specification: The oil must meet a specific Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standard, such as VW 502 00 or VW 507 00. Using an oil with the correct specification is crucial for proper engine performance and longevity. 
• Oil Type: Full synthetic oil is typically recommended for its superior performance and protection. 
• Model Year and Engine: The exact oil requirements can change depending on the model year and specific engine (e.g., 3.0T, 2.0T, or TDI diesel). 

How to choose the right oil

1. Consult your owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source of information for your specific vehicle.
2. Check the engine oil cap: The recommended viscosity grade is often printed on the oil cap. 
3. Confirm the oil specification: Look for the Volkswagen oil quality standard (e.g., VW 502 00 or VW 507 00) on the oil container. 
4. Purchase the correct viscosity and specification: Ensure the oil you buy meets both the required viscosity (e.g., 5W-30) and the oil quality standard (e.g., VW 502 00).