What Kind of Oil a 2008 Audi A6 Takes

A 2008 Audi A6 typically requires full synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 (for gasoline) or VW 505 01 (for many diesels) specification, most commonly in viscosity grades 5W-40 or 5W-30, depending on the engine variant and climate. This article explains how to confirm the correct spec for your exact engine, why it matters, and what to look for on oil labels.

Understanding the 2008 Audi A6 Oil Requirements

The 2008 Audi A6 was sold with several different engines around the world, and while many use similar types of oil, the precise specification can vary. Audi and Volkswagen engines are designed around specific oil standards (such as VW 502 00 and VW 505 01), and using oil that meets those standards is often more important than just matching the viscosity like 5W-30 or 5W-40.

Key Oil Specifications for the 2008 Audi A6

The most important factor when choosing oil for a 2008 Audi A6 is the Volkswagen/Audi (VW) oil approval printed on the bottle. This ensures the oil has been tested to meet the engine’s requirements for wear protection, sludge control, and high-temperature stability.

Typical VW Oil Specs by Engine Type

The 2008 A6 came with various gasoline and diesel engines, and each group has a typical recommended VW spec, though you should always verify against your owner’s manual or dealer records.

• Gasoline engines (e.g., 2.0T, 3.2 V6, 4.2 V8): Usually require oil that meets VW 502 00.
• Diesel engines (commonly in Europe and some markets): Often require VW 505 01 or in some cases VW 507 00, especially with a diesel particulate filter (DPF).
• Long-life service intervals (where applicable): Some markets and service programs may specify VW 504 00 / 507 00 for extended intervals, particularly on later or specific diesel variants.

These specifications are typically printed on the back label of high-quality European-formulated synthetic oils; choosing an oil without the correct VW spec, even if the viscosity matches, risks reduced engine protection and warranty issues.

Recommended Oil Viscosity Grades

In addition to the VW approval, viscosity (such as 5W-40) ensures the oil flows correctly at both cold start and normal operating temperatures. For a 2008 Audi A6, common viscosities are 5W-40 and 5W-30, depending on regional climate and engine configuration.

Common Viscosities for 2008 Audi A6

The following viscosity grades are widely used in 2008 Audi A6 models, assuming they also meet the proper VW specification.

• 5W-40 full synthetic: Very common recommendation for many 2008 Audi gasoline engines in moderate to warmer climates; balances cold-start flow with strong high-temperature protection.
• 5W-30 full synthetic: Often specified for some markets and especially for VW 504 00 / 507 00 oils; suitable for a wide range of temperatures and often used with long-life service intervals.
• 0W-40 or 0W-30 full synthetic: Sometimes recommended for very cold climates; must still carry the appropriate VW approval to be acceptable.

Viscosity choice can be fine-tuned for climate, but it should never override the requirement for the correct VW oil specification, which remains the primary selection criterion.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific A6

Because engine options and regional service recommendations differ, the most accurate way to identify the correct oil for your exact 2008 Audi A6 is to match the oil spec to your engine code and documentation. There are several reliable ways to do this.

Steps to Verify the Right Oil

The following actions help ensure you select the correctly specified oil rather than relying only on generic advice.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look in the “Engine oil” or “Fluids” section for the precise VW oil specification (e.g., VW 502 00, VW 505 01, VW 504 00 / 507 00) and recommended viscosity range.
2. Read the oil cap and under-hood labels: Some Audi models have a spec or at least a viscosity suggestion (e.g., SAE 5W-40) printed on the oil filler cap or a decal under the hood.
3. Identify your engine code: The 2008 A6 used multiple engines; the engine code (such as BPG, BKH, etc.) can be found on a sticker in the trunk near the spare tire well, in the service booklet, or via a dealer. With that code, you can look up the exact spec Audi specifies.
4. Consult an Audi dealer or trusted specialist: Provide your VIN; the service department can confirm the recommended oil spec and, where applicable, whether your car was set up for fixed or long-life intervals.
5. Match the bottle’s approvals: When you buy oil, check the “Approvals” or “Specifications” area on the back label for text like “VW 502 00” or “VW 505 01” or “VW 504 00 / 507 00.”

By following these steps, you can move beyond generic viscosity recommendations and be confident that the oil you put in your A6 genuinely meets Audi’s engineering and durability requirements.

Types of Oil Products That Typically Meet Audi Specs

Many major oil brands produce formulations specifically designed to meet European manufacturer standards, including Volkswagen/Audi approvals. While products change over time, certain categories are consistently appropriate if they list the proper VW spec.

Common Full Synthetic Options

Oil choices change by market and over time, but the types of products below illustrate what to look for when shopping for oil that meets Audi’s specifications.

• European-car formula 5W-40 synthetics: Often labeled as “European Car Formula” or “Euro” and explicitly list VW 502 00 and/or 505 01 approvals.
• Low-SAPS 5W-30 synthetics: Designed for modern gasoline and diesel engines with particulate filters, frequently carrying VW 504 00 / 507 00 approvals.
• OEM-branded oils from Audi/VW: Sold at dealerships and some parts stores, typically pre-approved for the relevant VW specs and safe for all compatible A6 engines.

Specific brand names and product lines vary by region, but the essential step is confirming the printed VW approval on the label rather than relying only on marketing terms like “synthetic” or “for European cars.”

Oil Change Intervals and Practical Tips

The correct oil protects your engine, but it must also be changed at appropriate intervals. For a 2008 Audi A6, intervals differed by market and service program, especially between “fixed” and “long-life” schedules.

Service Intervals and Good Practices

The following guidance reflects common practices for maintaining a 2008 A6’s engine health under typical driving conditions.

• Fixed intervals (common in North America): Many owners and mechanics favor oil changes around every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km), even if manuals sometimes list up to 10,000 miles.
• Long-life intervals (some European markets): With VW 504 00 / 507 00 long-life oils, intervals can extend up to roughly 18,000–19,000 miles (30,000 km) or two years, but many owners opt for shorter intervals for extra protection.
• Heavy use or short-trip driving: If the car sees frequent cold starts, short city trips, or towing, more frequent changes are advisable, as the oil ages faster under these conditions.
• Always replace the oil filter: Use a quality filter that meets or exceeds OEM standards at every oil change to maintain proper oil flow and filtration.

Adjusting oil change intervals based on your driving style and environment, while consistently using the correct VW-approved synthetic oil and a proper filter, is key to keeping a 2008 Audi A6 running smoothly over high mileage.

Summary

A 2008 Audi A6 is designed to run on full synthetic engine oil that meets specific Volkswagen/Audi standards—typically VW 502 00 for gasoline engines and VW 505 01 or 507 00 for many diesels—with 5W-40 or 5W-30 among the most common viscosity grades. The critical step is verifying the exact VW approval in your owner’s manual and on the oil bottle label, rather than choosing oil by viscosity alone. By matching the correct specification, using a high-quality synthetic oil, and following sensible change intervals, owners can protect their engines and maintain the long-term reliability of their 2008 Audi A6.

What kind of oil should I put in my Audi A6?

Castrol – Edge 5W-40 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, Maximizes Engine Performance, 5 Quart (Part No. 15B6FE)

What kind of oil does a 2008 Audi take?

STP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-40 1 Quart
5W-40.

Can I use 5W-30 in my Audi?

The recommended oil type is 5w-40 synthetic. While 5w-30 can work in a pinch, it’s best to use 5w-40 if you have it available. Yes, using Mobile One is perfectly acceptable.

What oil does a 2008 Audi A6 take?

Use synthetic oil SAE 5W-40, 5W-30 or 0W-40.
PDF