What Kind of Oil a 2013 Audi A4 Takes

The 2013 Audi A4 typically requires a high-quality, fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW/Audi specification VW 502 00 (or the more recent VW 504 00 for some markets), most commonly in viscosity grades 5W-40 or 5W-30. Below is a detailed breakdown of what that means, why it matters, and how to choose the correct oil for different engines and driving conditions.

Official Specifications for the 2013 Audi A4

Understanding the factory specifications is the most reliable way to pick the correct oil for a 2013 Audi A4, because Audi’s approvals go beyond generic viscosity labels and cover performance under heat, load, and extended service intervals.

Core Oil Specification: VW 502 00

For most 2013 Audi A4 gasoline engines, Audi specifies oils that meet the VW 502 00 standard. This is the key requirement you should look for on the oil bottle label, usually printed near the back with other approvals (e.g., “Meets VW 502 00 / 505 00”).

The VW 502 00 standard is designed for high-performance gasoline engines and includes rigorous testing for oxidation resistance, sludge control, deposit formation, and wear protection under sustained high-load driving.

Alternative/Extended-Service Specification: VW 504 00

In some regions and under specific service regimes (often associated with flexible or long-life service intervals), Audi may allow or prefer oils meeting VW 504 00. This is a newer, low-SAPS (low-ash) formulation designed for modern engines and emissions systems.

If an oil meets VW 504 00, it is generally acceptable as a higher standard for engines that previously accepted VW 502 00, but you should always confirm with your owner’s manual or an Audi dealer, especially if your vehicle is under warranty.

Recommended Oil Viscosity Grades

The viscosity grade tells you how thick or thin the oil is at different temperatures. For the 2013 Audi A4, the factory recommendations focus on maintaining proper lubrication during cold starts and under high operating temperatures.

Common Viscosity Choices

There are several viscosity grades commonly used in a 2013 Audi A4, but they must always be combined with the proper VW specification.

The most commonly recommended viscosity options for a 2013 Audi A4 (gasoline engines) are:

• 5W-40, fully synthetic – Very common factory-type recommendation in many markets; provides robust protection at high temperatures while still flowing well in moderate cold.
• 5W-30, fully synthetic – Also widely approved; often used where fuel economy and lower emissions are prioritized, especially when it meets VW 504 00.
• 0W-40 or 0W-30, fully synthetic – Sometimes recommended for very cold climates to improve cold-start performance, as long as the oil carries VW 502 00 or 504 00 approval.

Choosing among these viscosities depends on climate and driving style, but selecting an oil with the correct VW specification is more important than small differences in viscosity grade within Audi’s approved range.

Engine-Specific Considerations

The 2013 Audi A4 was sold with several engine variants worldwide, and while the VW 502 00 / 504 00 guideline is broadly valid, some differences exist between gasoline and diesel engines and between markets (U.S., Europe, etc.).

Gasoline Engines (e.g., 2.0 TFSI)

Most 2013 Audi A4 models in North America and many other markets use the 2.0 TFSI turbocharged gasoline engine.

For these engines:

• Main spec: VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 if permitted in your market).
• Typical viscosity: 5W-40 fully synthetic; 5W-30 fully synthetic also common if approved.
• Examples of compliant oils (check current label approvals):
  

  • Castrol EDGE 5W-40 (often labeled “European Car Formula,” with VW 502 00 approval).
  • Mobil 1 FS European Car Formula 0W-40 (VW 502 00/505 00 approved).
  • Liqui Moly Top Tec or Synthoil series with VW 502 00 or 504 00 approvals.

These oils are formulated to handle turbocharger temperatures, extended idle times, and highway speeds, all of which are typical for this engine in daily use.

Diesel Engines (Outside U.S. Markets)

In Europe and some other markets, the 2013 A4 could be equipped with TDI diesel engines, which have different requirements.

For these engines:

• Main specs: VW 507 00 is commonly required, especially for engines with diesel particulate filters (DPF).
• Typical viscosity: Often 5W-30 fully synthetic, but always verify against your exact engine code and local manual.
• Low-SAPS oils: Required to protect the DPF from ash buildup; using the wrong oil can shorten DPF life.

Owners of diesel A4 models should be especially careful to use low-ash VW 507 00 oil to avoid costly damage to the emissions system.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific Car

While general guidelines cover most cases, the most accurate way to know what oil your individual 2013 Audi A4 needs is to refer to documentation and identifiers tied to your specific vehicle.

Key Ways to Verify the Right Oil

Several sources can help you confirm the exact oil spec and viscosity for your car before you buy or change oil.

• Owner’s Manual: The primary reference. Look in the “Fluids and Specifications” or “Engine Oil” section for VW standards and recommended viscosity ranges.
• Service Booklet / Maintenance Schedule: Often lists the VW oil specification and service interval type (fixed vs. flexible/long-life).
• Oil Filler Cap / Under-Hood Labels: Some vehicles include basic oil spec or viscosity information near the engine oil cap or under the hood.
• Dealer or Trusted Audi Specialist: A dealership can look up oil requirements using your VIN and current Audi technical bulletins.
• Online Parts Catalogues (Using VIN): Many reputable OEM or OEM-equivalent parts sites allow you to enter your VIN and filter engine oils that meet your specific model’s requirements.

Cross-checking at least two of these sources dramatically reduces the risk of using an incorrect oil that might affect performance, longevity, or warranty coverage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing engine oil based only on brand reputation or viscosity, without checking Audi’s VW specifications, is one of the most frequent mistakes owners make.

Errors That Can Cost You in the Long Run

The following pitfalls are worth avoiding when servicing a 2013 Audi A4.

• Ignoring VW 502 00 / 504 00: Using a generic 5W-30 or 5W-40 that does not mention Audi/VW approvals may not protect adequately under high temperatures or extended intervals.
• Using Conventional (Non-Synthetic) Oil: The engine is designed for fully synthetic oil; conventional oil can break down faster, especially in turbocharged engines.
• Mixing Incompatible Oils Repeatedly: Topping off with random oils that lack the proper spec can dilute the additive package and reduce overall protection.
• Overextending Change Intervals: Even with high-quality oil, going far beyond the manufacturer’s recommended mileage or time can lead to sludge and accelerated wear.
• Confusing Diesel and Gasoline Specs: VW 507 00 (diesel) and VW 502 00 / 504 00 (gasoline) are not interchangeable in all cases; using the wrong spec can cause engine or emissions issues.

Being meticulous about oil specification and service intervals is especially important for turbocharged engines like those in the 2013 A4, where heat and pressure are significantly higher than in non-turbo engines.

Oil Change Interval and Capacity

Knowing the correct oil is only half the picture; following an appropriate change interval and using the proper amount of oil are also essential for reliability.

Typical Intervals and Volumes

Specific intervals and capacities can vary slightly by engine and market, but there are general guidelines for the 2013 A4.

• Change Interval (Fixed Service): Commonly around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, in many markets using VW 502 00 oil.
• Change Interval (Flexible/Long-Life): In some regions, up to 18,000–19,000 miles (30,000 km) or 2 years with approved long-life (often VW 504 00) oils and sensors that monitor oil condition.
• Engine Oil Capacity: Typically in the range of about 4.6–5.0 liters (approximately 4.9–5.3 quarts) for the 2.0 TFSI with filter change, though you should confirm in the owner’s manual for your exact engine code.
• Checking Level: Always verify the level with the dipstick or electronic gauge on level ground after the engine has been run and then allowed to sit a few minutes.

Following manufacturer-recommended intervals and capacities helps maintain proper lubrication and cooling, which is crucial to preventing timing chain issues, sludge, and turbo wear commonly associated with neglected oil changes.

Summary

A 2013 Audi A4 typically requires a fully synthetic engine oil that meets at least the VW 502 00 specification (or VW 504 00 where applicable), with common viscosity grades of 5W-40 or 5W-30 for gasoline engines. Diesel variants, mostly outside North America, usually need low-ash oils meeting VW 507 00. When choosing oil, always prioritize the VW/Audi approval printed on the bottle over brand or generic viscosity alone, confirm details in the owner’s manual or with your VIN, and adhere to the recommended oil change intervals and capacities. Doing so will help ensure your 2013 Audi A4’s engine remains reliable, efficient, and well-protected over the long term.

What oil goes in a 2013 Audi A4?

For a 2013 Audi A4, the recommended oil type is a full synthetic motor oil with a viscosity of 5W-40, although 5W-30 or 0W-40 may also be used if they meet the necessary Audi oil quality standards. It is crucial that the oil meets the VW 502 00 specification for optimal engine protection. 
Oil specifications

• Viscosity: 5W-40 is the most common recommendation, but 5W-30 or 0W-40 can be used if they meet the quality standards.
• Type: Full synthetic oil is required.
• Quality Standard: The oil must meet the VW 502 00 specification. 

Important considerations

• Check the owner’s manual: Always refer to your owner’s manual for the most accurate and specific oil requirements for your vehicle. 
• Use correct capacity: The 2013 Audi A4 with a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine has a capacity of approximately 4.9 quarts with a filter change. 
• Replace the oil filter: Always replace the oil filter when changing the oil to ensure proper lubrication and performance. 

What oil is best for an Audi A4?

Choosing the Best Oil for Your Audi A4
Audi recommends using synthetic oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification. Here are a few top choices: Castrol EDGE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil: Known for its exceptional strength under high pressure, this oil provides superior protection and performance for your Audi A4.

Is Dot 4 for an Audi A4 2015?

StopTech DOT 4 Racing Brake Fluid is available in two formulations depending on the operating temperature of your vehicle: STR600 and STR660. It is engineered to give street and strip vehicles the best in braking performance.

How much oil does a 2013 Audi A4 2.0 L Turbo take?

4.6 litres
4.6 litres (with filter).