What Kind of Oil a 2013 Audi Takes

A 2013 Audi typically requires full-synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 (or relevant VW 504 00/507 00 for some diesel and long-life systems) specification, usually in 5W-40 or 5W-30 viscosity depending on the specific engine. The exact oil type depends on whether the car has a gasoline or diesel engine and the specific engine code, but all require VW-approved synthetic oil rather than generic motor oil.

Why the Right Oil Matters for a 2013 Audi

The 2013 Audi lineup, from the A3 to the Q7, relies on tightly engineered turbocharged engines that run hot and under high pressure. Because of this, Audi and its parent company Volkswagen require specific oil standards to protect components like turbochargers, timing chains, and emission-control systems. Using the wrong oil can lead to premature wear, higher oil consumption, and potential warranty or goodwill claim issues.

Core Requirement: VW Oil Specifications for 2013 Audi Models

Before considering brand or viscosity, Audi owners must focus on the Volkswagen (VW) oil specification printed on the oil container. This spec is more important than the name on the bottle.

The main VW oil specifications relevant to most 2013 Audi engines are:

• VW 502 00 – The standard spec for most 2013 Audi gasoline engines in North America; suitable for fixed service intervals (typically around 10,000 miles / 16,000 km or once a year under normal conditions).
• VW 504 00 – A more advanced long-life spec, often low-ash and compatible with modern emissions systems; used on some later or European-market gas engines with flexible service intervals.
• VW 505 01 / 507 00 – Diesel specifications, especially for TDI engines with particulate filters (DPF). 507 00 is a low-SAPS (low ash) oil designed to protect the DPF and catalytic systems.

For a 2013 Audi in North America, VW 502 00 (gasoline) and VW 507 00 (diesel) will cover the majority of models. Always confirm by checking your owner’s manual or the label on the oil cap, because regional variations and specific engines can differ.

Typical Viscosity Grades for 2013 Audi Engines

Viscosity describes how thick or thin the oil is at different temperatures. For 2013 Audi models, the manufacturer focuses on full-synthetic multigrade oils that perform well in both cold starts and high-temperature highway driving.

The most frequently recommended viscosity grades include:

• 5W-40 full synthetic – Commonly recommended for many 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI gasoline engines with VW 502 00 approval; good all-round choice for moderate to warmer climates.
• 5W-30 full synthetic – Also common, especially for VW 504 00/507 00 oils and some diesel engines. Often specified where emissions and fuel economy are prioritized.
• 0W-40 or 0W-30 full synthetic – Sometimes allowed as an alternative in very cold climates, as long as the oil still carries the correct VW spec (for example, VW 502 00).

While different viscosities may be technically acceptable, Audi’s specific recommendation in your manual should be followed, especially if the car is still under any extended coverage or if you’re trying to maximize engine longevity.

By Model: Common 2013 Audi Oil Requirements

Different 2013 Audi models share engines, so their oil requirements often overlap. The table below summarizes typical guidelines, but exact needs can vary by engine code and country, so the owner’s manual is the final authority.

2013 Audi A3, A4, A5, A6, Q5, Q7 (Gasoline)

For mainstream gasoline models sold in North America (such as the 2.0 TFSI or 3.0 TFSI engines), the pattern is relatively consistent.

Typical requirements for these gasoline engines include:

• Oil type: Full-synthetic engine oil.
• Specification: VW 502 00 (primary), or VW 504 00 where explicitly noted.
• Viscosity: Usually 5W-40 or 5W-30, depending on climate and manual guidance.
• Service interval: About every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year under normal use; more frequently in severe conditions (short trips, extreme temperatures, heavy stop-and-go).

These engines are sensitive to oil quality because of their turbochargers and direct injection systems, so cutting corners with conventional oil or non-approved products is risky.

2013 Audi TDI (Diesel) Models

Diesel Audis—such as 2.0 TDI or 3.0 TDI versions of the A3, A6, Q5, and Q7—require low-ash oils compatible with diesel particulate filters (DPFs).

Key oil requirements for 2013 Audi TDI engines typically include:

• Oil type: Full-synthetic, low-SAPS (low-ash) diesel oil.
• Specification: VW 507 00 (most common); occasionally VW 505 01 for certain earlier engines, but 507 00 generally supersedes it.
• Viscosity: Usually 5W-30 for VW 507 00 oils.
• Service interval: Often similar to gasoline—around 10,000 miles / 16,000 km or 1 year, though some European-market cars with flexible service intervals may vary.

Using non-507 00 oil in a TDI with a DPF can increase soot and ash buildup, potentially shortening the life of the particulate filter and affecting emissions-system performance.

Approved Brands and Examples

Many oil brands manufacture products that meet Audi/VW specifications, but not every synthetic oil is approved. The bottle must clearly state the VW spec (e.g., “VW 502 00” or “VW 507 00”).

Examples of commonly used oils that often offer VW-approved variants include:

• Castrol – Castrol EDGE or EDGE Professional with VW 502 00 / 504 00 / 507 00 approvals, frequently used by Audi dealers.
• Mobil 1 – Certain Mobil 1 formulas (such as ESP variants) carry VW 502 00 or 504 00/507 00 approvals; always verify the exact label.
• Liqui Moly – Popular in European-car circles, with specific VW 502 00 and 507 00 approved products.
• Pentosin, Motul, Total, Shell, Valvoline – Each offers VW-spec oils; specific lines (e.g., Motul Specific, Shell Helix, etc.) are designed to meet VW 502 00 or 507 00.

The brand itself is less important than the certification: if the bottle does not explicitly list the VW 502 00 / 504 00 / 507 00 spec required by your car, it should not be used as the primary engine oil.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Exact 2013 Audi

Because the 2013 model year includes many engines and regional configurations, the most reliable way to confirm the correct oil is to check Audi’s own documentation and labels on the car.

Key steps to verify the correct oil include:

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look in the “Engine oil” or “Specifications” section; it will list the VW standard (e.g., VW 502 00) and recommended viscosity.
2. Inspect the oil cap and under-hood labels: Many 2013 Audis have the specification (like “VW 502 00”) printed on the oil filler cap or a nearby sticker.
3. Use your VIN at a dealership or official site: Audi service departments can look up the recommended oil by Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
4. Consult regional Audi documentation: Requirements sometimes differ between North America and Europe or other markets, especially regarding VW 504 00/507 00 long-life oils.

Following these steps ensures you match not only the general model but your exact engine code and regional specification, which is important for both performance and regulatory compliance.

Common Mistakes and What to Avoid

Misunderstandings about “any synthetic oil being fine” are widespread. For a 2013 Audi, that assumption can be costly in the long run.

Owners should watch out for these frequent mistakes:

• Using “synthetic” oil without VW approval: Many general-purpose synthetics lack the VW 502 00/507 00 certifications needed for Audi engines.
• Ignoring diesel vs. gasoline differences: Diesel (TDI) engines need low-SAPS oils like VW 507 00; using the wrong oil can damage the DPF.
• Choosing viscosity only by climate, not spec: While climate matters, the VW spec is the primary requirement; do not use, for example, 10W-40 without proper VW approval just because it seems thicker.
• Overextending oil change intervals: Even if the car allows 10,000-mile intervals, lots of short trips, extreme temperatures, or heavy towing may justify more frequent changes.

Avoiding these pitfalls helps maintain engine health, support turbo longevity, reduce the risk of sludge or varnish, and keep emissions systems operating correctly.

Summary

A 2013 Audi requires full-synthetic engine oil that meets specific Volkswagen (VW) approvals—most commonly VW 502 00 for gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for diesel TDI models, usually in 5W-40 or 5W-30 viscosity. The exact recommendation depends on the engine and market, so the owner’s manual, oil cap, or VIN-based dealer lookup should always be consulted. Using oil that carries the correct VW specification is more important than brand alone and is essential for protecting the engine, turbocharger, and emissions systems over the long term.

How much oil does a 2013 Audi A4 take?

A 2013 Audi A4 with the 2.0L TFSI engine requires about 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters) of oil for a filter change. The exact amount can vary slightly by model, so it is always best to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or dipstick for confirmation. 

• Engine oil capacity: Approximately 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters) for models with the 2.0L TFSI engine. 
• Recommended oil type: Use a full synthetic oil that meets the appropriate Audi oil quality standard, with a recommended viscosity of 5W-40, 5W-30, 0W-40, or 0W-30, depending on your climate. 
• After refilling: Always check the oil level with the dipstick after you have finished to ensure you have the correct amount. 

What type of oil does a 2013 Audi A6 take?

The 2013 Audi A6 requires a full synthetic motor oil with a viscosity of SAE 5W-40, 5W-30, or 0W-40. The oil must also meet the specific Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standard (VW 502 00). Always check your owner’s manual for the most accurate specification and capacity, which is approximately 7.27.27.2 quarts with a filter. 
Key requirements

• Viscosity: SAE 5W-40, 5W-30, or 0W-40
• Type: Full synthetic
• Specification: Must meet the Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standard (VW 502 00)
• Capacity: Approximately 7.27.27.2 quarts (with filter) 

Important notes

• Always use a full synthetic oil to ensure proper protection and performance. 
• If an oil meeting the VW 502 00 specification is not available, choose a suitable viscosity grade for your climate and operating conditions, but it’s highly recommended to use a product that meets the specification. 
• After refilling, check the oil level to ensure it is correct. 

What oil does a 2013 Audi take?

**Audi Oil Specification: VW 502 00. Use synthetic oil SAE 5W-40, 5W-30 or 0W-40.
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What type of oil does Audi recommend?

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.