What Kind of Oil a 2013 Audi RS5 Takes

The 2013 Audi RS5 4.2 FSI V8 is designed to use fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW 502 00 (and ideally VW 504 00) specifications, typically in 5W-40 or 5W-30 viscosity, with a total capacity of about 9.5 liters (10 quarts) including the filter. This oil type protects the high-revving naturally aspirated V8 and ensures proper lubrication, emissions control, and engine longevity.

Understanding the 2013 Audi RS5’s Engine and Oil Requirements

The 2013 Audi RS5 is powered by a 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 (engine code CAU/CFSA, depending on market), redlining around 8,200 rpm. This high-revving design requires high-quality synthetic oil that can tolerate heat, shear forces, and extended drain intervals. Audi specifies oils that meet its own VW/Audi standards rather than just generic API or ACEA ratings, and using the correct spec is crucial for performance and warranty-related concerns on vehicles still covered by extended plans.

The Official Audi Oil Specification

Audi doesn’t just specify a brand; it specifies an oil standard that any compliant brand must meet. For the 2013 RS5, the relevant specs are VW 502 00 as the baseline and VW 504 00 for long-life and higher-quality low-ash options.

The main factory specifications to look for on the oil label are:

• VW 502 00 – The core gasoline engine specification for many performance Audi engines of this era, suitable for fixed interval changes.
• VW 504 00 – A newer, long-life, low-ash specification compatible with many modern Audi gasoline engines, often acceptable as a superseding spec and favored for cars with extended drain intervals and sensitive emissions systems.

In practice, choosing an oil that clearly states VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 on the label is far more important than the brand name itself, as this ensures the oil meets Audi’s requirements for the RS5’s high-stress V8.

Recommended Viscosity for a 2013 Audi RS5

Viscosity describes how thick or thin the oil is at cold and hot temperatures. For the 2013 RS5, Audi-approved oils are typically 5W-40 or 5W-30, chosen based on climate and driving style.

Commonly Recommended Viscosities

Owners and technicians typically choose from a small group of viscosities that balance cold start performance with high-temperature protection.

• 5W-40 fully synthetic – A very common choice for the RS5’s 4.2 V8, offering strong protection at high temperatures and under spirited driving. Many VW 502 00 oils are 5W-40.
• 5W-30 fully synthetic – Often used where VW 504 00 is recommended or permitted, gives slightly better fuel economy and cold-start performance while still offering robust protection if it meets the correct VW spec.
• 0W-40 (VW 502 00–approved) – Sometimes chosen in colder climates for superior cold-start flow, as long as it displays the required VW spec on the label.

For most climates and driving conditions, 5W-40 that meets VW 502 00 is the safe “default” choice, while 5W-30 that meets VW 504 00 is a strong alternative, especially for newer-spec long-life oils.

Oil Capacity and Change Intervals

The RS5’s 4.2-liter V8 uses a relatively large volume of oil to help cope with heat and lubrication needs at high RPM. Knowing the correct capacity and service interval helps avoid underfilling or extended use of degraded oil.

Oil Capacity

The total oil capacity includes the engine and the new filter. This is the typical amount needed for a complete oil change.

• Approximate capacity: about 9.0–9.5 liters (roughly 9.5–10.0 US quarts) including the oil filter.
• Fill procedure: Shops usually add slightly less than the full amount, start the engine briefly, then top off to the correct dipstick/electronic level to avoid overfilling.
• Verification: Oil level should be checked after the engine has run and then rested, on a level surface, using the MMI/electronic oil-level system or dipstick (if equipped, depending on market).

Because capacity can vary slightly by production details and the exact filter used, owners should always confirm the final level rather than blindly relying on a single fixed quantity.

Recommended Change Intervals

Audi’s official intervals can differ by market, but high-performance engines often benefit from more frequent service than the maximum factory schedule, especially with spirited driving.

• Factory guideline (many markets): roughly every 10,000 miles (15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, when using approved long-life synthetic oils.
• Enthusiast/independent shop recommendation: often 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km), especially for hard driving, frequent high RPM use, or track days.
• Severe service: if the car sees lots of short trips, extreme heat, or track use, more frequent changes are advised to protect the engine and maintain oil quality.

While the onboard service indicator provides a baseline, many RS5 owners choose shorter intervals as a preventative measure for this relatively high-strung V8.

Approved Oil Brands and Product Examples

Many major oil manufacturers produce lubricants that meet VW 502 00/504 00, and availability often depends on your region. Checking the back label for the VW spec is more important than choosing a particular brand.

Commonly Used Oils That Meet VW Specs

Below are examples of oils frequently used by Audi owners and shops for the RS5, provided they show the appropriate VW specification.

• Castrol Edge / Edge Professional (5W-40 or 5W-30) – Many variants carry VW 502 00 or 504 00; Audi dealerships have historically partnered with Castrol in several markets.
• Motul Specific or Motul 8100 series (e.g., 5W-40 with VW 502 00 approval) – Popular among performance and track enthusiasts.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec or Leichtlauf series (5W-40 or 5W-30) – Several products meet VW 502 00/504 00 and are widely used in European performance cars.
• Mobil 1 formulas with VW 502 00/504 00 (e.g., some 0W-40 or 5W-40 offerings) – Read labels carefully, as not every Mobil 1 variant carries the VW approval.
• Shell Helix Ultra / Pennzoil Platinum Euro (market-dependent) – Certain Euro formulations are explicitly labeled with VW 502 00/504 00.

Because product lineups and approvals change, owners should always confirm current VW 502 00 or 504 00 approval on the bottle or the manufacturer’s official approval list rather than assuming based on name alone.

Why the Correct VW Specification Matters

High-performance Audi engines are sensitive to oil quality and design, especially in terms of detergents, ash content, and resistance to breakdown. Using the correct VW spec matters for reliability and, where relevant, coverage under any remaining warranties or extended service contracts.

Risks of Using the Wrong Oil

Deviating from the required specification can create issues over time, even if things initially seem fine.

• Increased wear and deposits: Oils not designed to VW’s standards may leave more deposits on valvetrain components and piston rings, especially at the RS5’s high RPMs.
• Potential catalytic converter and emissions system impact: Non-approved oils may have additive packages that increase ash and contaminant buildup, shortening the life of catalysts and oxygen sensors.
• Sludge and varnish formation: Extended drain intervals with non-approved oils can lead to sludge, restricting oil flow and potentially causing serious engine damage.
• Warranty or goodwill complications: In disputes over engine issues, improper oil specs can be used to argue that maintenance was not performed according to manufacturer guidelines.

While an off-spec oil might work in the short term, the RS5’s engine is costly to repair, so adhering to VW 502 00/504 00 is a relatively inexpensive form of insurance.

Climate, Driving Style, and Choosing Between 5W-30 and 5W-40

Within Audi’s approved range, owners can fine-tune their oil choice based on how—and where—they drive. Both 5W-30 and 5W-40 can be correct if they meet the proper VW spec, but each has slight advantages.

Factors to Consider

Several real-world aspects should shape your choice of viscosity that still satisfies the factory standard.

• Climate: In hotter climates or where the car is driven hard for long periods, a 5W-40 can offer an extra margin of protection at high oil temperatures. In moderate or cold climates, a 5W-30 (504 00) oil is often sufficient and efficient.
• Driving style: Drivers who frequently use high RPMs, spirited canyon runs, or track events tend to prefer 5W-40 for its high-temperature stability.
• Typical trip length: Short, stop-and-go trips that rarely let the engine fully warm up can be harsh on oil; in such cases, frequent changes are more important than the small difference between 5W-30 and 5W-40.
• Oil consumption behavior: Some engines may consume slightly more of one viscosity than another; monitoring level between services can guide future choice.

Ultimately, both 5W-30 VW 504 00 and 5W-40 VW 502 00 are valid in many markets; the decision typically comes down to usage pattern and regional recommendations in the owner’s manual.

Checking the Owner’s Manual and Local Dealer Guidance

While the general Audi and VW specifications are well-established, there can be regional nuances in recommended viscosities and service intervals due to climate, fuel quality, and local regulations.

Steps to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Car

To be absolutely certain you’re using the correct oil for your specific RS5, a few checks are worthwhile.

• Consult the owner’s manual: Look for the section on “Engine Oil” or “Lubricants.” It will list the VW spec (502 00/504 00) and usually provide an approved viscosity range tailored to your region.
• Check the oil cap and under-hood labels: Many Audis have the VW spec printed directly on the oil filler cap or nearby stickers as a quick reference.
• Ask an authorized Audi dealer or trusted specialist: They can confirm the current recommended spec and may have updated technical bulletins for your engine code.
• Verify against current product data: Since oil formulations evolve, use manufacturer websites or official approval lists to make sure the bottle you buy still carries VW 502 00/504 00 approval.

Taking a few minutes to verify these details ensures you’re not relying on outdated assumptions and that your 2013 RS5’s lubrication matches the most current official guidance.

Summary

The 2013 Audi RS5’s 4.2-liter high-revving V8 requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW’s own standards, specifically VW 502 00 and, where allowed, VW 504 00. In practical terms, that usually means using a 5W-40 or 5W-30 fully synthetic oil with the correct VW approval on the label, and filling roughly 9.0–9.5 liters (about 10 quarts) including the filter. While Audi’s official service interval is around 10,000 miles or 12 months in many markets, many owners and independent specialists favor somewhat shorter intervals, especially with spirited driving. Confirming the VW approval on the bottle, following the owner’s manual, and matching viscosity to your climate and driving style are the key steps to protecting the RS5’s expensive and sophisticated V8 engine.

What type of oil does a 2013 Audi take?

Notes: Full synthetic. 5W-40.

What kind of oil does an Audi RS take?

5W-40 – Recommended for high-performance Audi S and RS models.

What oil does an Audi RS5 2013 take?

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

What kind of oil does a rs5 take?

Castrol – GTX High Mileage 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Engine Oil, 5 Quart (Part No. 15980E)