What Kind of Oil a 2013 Audi A8 Takes

A 2013 Audi A8 requires full synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 502 00 (for most gasoline models) in viscosity grades such as SAE 5W‑40 or 5W‑30, depending on engine and climate; some diesel variants use VW 507 00 low‑ash oil. The exact requirement is determined by the engine code and listed in the owner’s manual and on the under‑hood oil label.

The Basics: Official Oil Specifications for the 2013 Audi A8

The 2013 Audi A8 lineup includes several engines worldwide (V6, V8, W12, and TDI diesels), and Audi specifies oil based primarily on internal VW/Audi standards, not just viscosity. For North American gasoline models, the governing standard is almost always VW 502 00; for many European diesels, it is VW 507 00. Using an oil that meets the correct VW spec is more important than the brand, and it is essential for warranty compliance and long‑term engine health.

Core Standards: VW 502 00 and VW 507 00

Most 2013 Audi A8 gasoline engines (such as the 3.0 TFSI and 4.0 TFSI sold in the U.S.) are designed for oils that meet VW 502 00, a high‑performance standard for turbocharged, direct‑injection engines. Many diesel variants in other markets, including TDI engines equipped with diesel particulate filters (DPF), require VW 507 00 oil, a low‑SAPS (low ash, phosphorus, sulfur) formulation to protect emissions systems.

The following list outlines the most common Audi/VW oil specifications you’ll encounter for a 2013 A8 and when they typically apply.

• VW 502 00: Primary spec for most gasoline 2013 A8 engines (e.g., 3.0 TFSI, 4.0 TFSI). Full synthetic only.
• VW 504 00: Long‑life, extended‑service gasoline spec; more common in Europe with flexible service intervals.
• VW 505 00 / 505 01: Older diesel specs; generally not the main recommendation for a 2013 A8 but may appear in regional documentation for some TDI engines.
• VW 507 00: Modern low‑ash diesel spec for DPF‑equipped TDI engines, often used in 3.0 TDI versions of the A8.

Understanding which of these codes applies to your specific A8 engine ensures that you choose an oil that can handle turbocharger heat, direct injection deposits, and modern emissions equipment.

Recommended Viscosity Grades for the 2013 Audi A8

Viscosity matters for cold starts, high‑load driving, and fuel efficiency. Audi approves several viscosity grades as long as the oil meets the correct VW spec. The owner’s manual and under‑hood label will show one or more options, often focusing on regional climate conditions.

The list below summarizes the most commonly recommended viscosity grades for a 2013 A8 and where they typically fit.

• SAE 5W‑40 (VW 502 00): Very common recommendation for gasoline A8s in moderate to hot climates; good high‑temperature protection.
• SAE 5W‑30 (VW 502 00 or 504/507 00): Frequently approved, especially where fuel economy is a priority or in cooler climates.
• SAE 0W‑40 (VW 502 00 approved brands): Sometimes listed as acceptable for very cold climates, providing better cold start performance while preserving high‑temp protection.
• SAE 0W‑30 / 5W‑30 (VW 507 00): Common for TDI diesel A8s that require low‑ash oils compatible with DPF systems.

As long as the oil meets the specified VW standard for your engine, you can typically select the viscosity from the approved range that best matches your climate and driving style.

How to Confirm the Right Oil for Your Exact A8 Engine

Because the 2013 Audi A8 was sold with multiple engines and different regional emissions setups, the most accurate way to determine the correct oil is to check the documentation specific to your car. This avoids relying on generic recommendations that may not fit your engine code or market.

The following steps explain how to verify the correct oil type for your particular vehicle.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look under “Engine Oil” or “Capacities and Specifications” for the VW oil spec (e.g., VW 502 00, VW 507 00) and approved viscosity grades.
2. Inspect the oil filler cap and under‑hood label: Many A8s have “VW 502 00” or “VW 507 00” printed or referenced on the cap or a nearby sticker.
3. Identify your engine code: The engine code (e.g., CGWB, CTUB, etc.) can be found in the service booklet, trunk data sticker, or via dealer lookup using your VIN; this allows precise spec confirmation.
4. Consult an Audi dealer or official service documentation: With your VIN, a dealer can confirm the exact oil standard and capacity for your vehicle.
5. Cross‑check with major oil manufacturers: Reputable brands offer online “oil selector” tools keyed to VW specifications and often list VW 502 00 or 507 00‑approved products compatible with the A8.

Verifying these details once ensures you use the correct oil every time, whether you change it yourself or use an independent shop.

Typical Oil Capacities by Engine (Approximate)

While the question focuses on oil type, knowing approximate oil capacity helps ensure you buy enough and avoid overfilling. Exact figures can vary slightly by filter and regional configuration, so always compare with the manual.

The following list gives ballpark engine oil capacities (with filter) for common 2013 A8 engines; values are approximations and may vary by market.

• 3.0 TFSI V6 (gasoline): Roughly 6.6–7.0 liters (about 7.0–7.4 US quarts).
• 4.0 TFSI V8 (gasoline): Roughly 7.7–8.5 liters (about 8.1–9.0 US quarts).
• 6.3 W12 (gasoline, if equipped): Often around 8.5–9.0 liters (about 9.0–9.5 US quarts).
• 3.0 TDI V6 (diesel): Typically about 6.7–7.4 liters (around 7.1–7.8 US quarts).

Because even small over‑ or under‑fills can affect oil pressure and consumption, these figures should be treated as guidelines alongside the dipstick and MMI oil level readings.

Brand Examples That Meet Audi Requirements

Audi does not require a specific brand, but it does require that the oil meet the correct VW specification. Many major oil manufacturers produce VW 502 00 and 507 00‑approved products, which are widely available in auto parts stores and dealerships.

The examples below list popular products that commonly carry VW 502 00 or 507 00 approval; always verify the spec on the label, as formulations sometimes change.

• VW 502 00 gasoline oils:
  

  • Castrol EDGE 5W‑40 (European Formula, VW 502 00/505 00 approved)
  • Mobil 1 FS 0W‑40 (Euro Formula, many variants carry VW 502 00 approval)
  • Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W‑40 (VW 502 00/505 00)
  • Shell Helix Ultra 5W‑40 or Pennzoil Platinum Euro 5W‑40 (VW 502 00)

• VW 507 00 diesel oils:
  

  • Castrol EDGE Professional LongLife III 5W‑30 (VW 504 00/507 00)
  • Mobil 1 ESP 5W‑30 (VW 504 00/507 00)
  • Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W‑30 (VW 504 00/507 00)

Choosing a reputable brand that clearly lists the required VW specification on the packaging ensures compatibility and makes service documentation straightforward.

Service Intervals and Why the Correct Oil Matters

Modern Audi engines, especially turbocharged and direct‑injected units like those in the 2013 A8, are sensitive to oil quality. The correct VW‑spec oil helps manage turbocharger heat, reduces deposits on intake valves and pistons, protects timing chains, and maintains proper function of emissions equipment such as catalytic converters and particulate filters.

The list below explains key reasons why matching the spec and changing oil on time is important for a 2013 A8.

• Turbo and supercharger protection: High‑temperature stability in VW 502 00 oils reduces coking in turbo bearings and supercharger components.
• Direct‑injection deposit control: Proper detergents and base stocks help minimize carbon buildup that can affect performance and fuel economy.
• Emissions system longevity: Low‑ash VW 507 00 oils protect diesel particulate filters and catalytic converters from premature fouling.
• Timing chain and cam wear: Correct viscosity and anti‑wear additives reduce chain stretch and camshaft wear in long‑drain interval engines.
• Warranty and resale value: Using approved oil and documenting changes on schedule supports warranty coverage and reassures future buyers.

Following Audi’s recommended oil and interval, usually around 10,000 miles or 1 year for many markets (or as indicated by the service reminder), lowers the risk of costly repairs over the life of the car.

Summary

A 2013 Audi A8 is designed to run on full synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW’s own standards: typically VW 502 00 for gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for many diesel variants, in viscosity grades such as 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 depending on climate and engine. The safest approach is to confirm the VW spec and viscosity in your owner’s manual and on the oil filler label, then choose a reputable full synthetic oil that explicitly lists that approval. Matching the exact specification is more critical than the brand name and is key to preserving performance, efficiency, and engine longevity in the A8.

What type of oil does a 2013 Audi A8 take?

Notes: Full synthetic. 5W-40. 5 quart.

What kind of oil does a 2013 Audi take?

The 2013 Audi oil type depends on the specific engine, but it is typically a full synthetic oil in a 5W-30 or 5W-40 viscosity grade, or 0W-40 for some models and colder climates. Always confirm with your owner’s manual for the correct viscosity and the required Audi oil quality specification (e.g., VW 507 00 for some diesel models). 
Common oil types

• SAE 5W-40: A common choice for many gasoline engines, especially those that are turbocharged, and can provide extra protection in warmer climates. 
• SAE 5W-30: Suitable for a wide range of temperatures and often used in gasoline engines and is also the recommended viscosity for many diesel models. 
• SAE 0W-40: A good option for colder weather or newer, advanced engines. 
• SAE 0W-30: Suitable for cold weather operations. 

Important considerations

• Full synthetic: Most 2013 Audi engines require a full synthetic oil. 
• Audi quality standard: Ensure the oil meets the specific Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standards for your engine to guarantee compliance. 
• Owner’s manual: The final determination should always be made by checking the owner’s manual, as the requirements can vary by model and engine. 

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 type of oil for Audi A8?

The correct Audi A8 oil type depends on the specific model year and engine, but it is typically a full synthetic oil with a viscosity grade like 5W-30, 5W-40, or 0W-20, which must meet the relevant VW oil quality standard (e.g., VW 502.00, VW 507.00). Always check your owner’s manual for the precise recommendation for your vehicle. 
Common oil types by model year

• For many gasoline models (e.g., 2017 3.0L V6): Full synthetic 5W-40 or 5W-30 that meets the VW 502.00 specification is recommended. 
• For many TDI diesel models (e.g., 2014 TDI): Full synthetic 5W-30 is required to meet the VW 507.00 specification. 
• For newer gasoline models (e.g., 2021 3.0L V6): Full synthetic 0W-20 is often the recommended viscosity grade. 

Key considerations

• Always check your owner’s manual: The exact oil type and viscosity are crucial for proper engine performance and longevity, so always refer to your vehicle’s manual for the specific requirements of your model and engine.
• Use full synthetic: Audi recommends full synthetic oil for its advanced protection and performance.
• Ensure it meets the VW standard: Look for an oil that explicitly meets the correct Volkswagen oil quality standard (e.g., VW 502.00, VW 507.00) to ensure compatibility and avoid warranty issues.
• Don’t forget the oil filter: Always replace the oil filter when you change the oil to prevent contamination.