What Kind of Oil a 2014 Audi Q5 Takes

A 2014 Audi Q5 generally requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets the Volkswagen/Audi specification VW 502 00 (for gasoline engines) or VW 507 00 (for diesel engines), with the viscosity most commonly 5W-40 or 5W-30 depending on the specific engine and climate; always confirm in the owner’s manual or with the VIN for exact requirements.

Understanding the 2014 Audi Q5 Engine Lineup

The 2014 Audi Q5 came with several engine options, and the correct oil depends on which one is under the hood. While the oil specification standard is set by Audi/Volkswagen, viscosity and exact product choice can vary slightly by engine type and operating conditions.

Main Engine Options in the 2014 Audi Q5

The following list outlines the common engine variants for the 2014 Audi Q5 and sets the stage for understanding their oil needs.

• 2.0 TFSI (turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine)
• 3.0 TFSI (supercharged V6 gasoline engine)
• 3.0 TDI (V6 turbo diesel engine – availability varies by market)
• Hybrid variant based on the 2.0 TFSI engine (in some markets)

Because these engines share corporate oil standards but differ in internal design and emissions systems, it is important to know which specific engine you have before choosing oil.

The Key Specification: VW 502 00 and VW 507 00

Audi does not choose oil by brand first, but by engineering standards. For the 2014 Q5, that means meeting Volkswagen/Audi specifications, which govern how the oil performs under temperature, load, and long-term use.

Oil Specs for Gasoline Engines (2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI, Hybrid)

For gasoline-powered 2014 Q5 models, Audi’s core requirement is an oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification.

The following points summarize what that means and how drivers should interpret the specification.

• Required spec: VW 502 00 (sometimes listed as “VW 502.00”)
• Typical viscosities in North America:
  

  • 5W-40 fully synthetic (very common dealer fill)
  • 5W-30 fully synthetic (must also explicitly meet VW 502 00)

• Acceptable brands: Any major brand (e.g., Castrol, Mobil 1, Liqui Moly, Pennzoil, Shell, Valvoline) as long as the label clearly states VW 502 00 approval or compliance
• Not enough to say: “For European cars” or “meets ACEA A3/B4” without VW 502 00 on the label
• Long-life capability: The spec supports extended drain intervals, but real-world intervals should follow the service schedule and driving conditions

In practice, most 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI Q5s in 2014 were serviced with 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00; 5W-30 is also acceptable if it holds the same certification and suits local temperatures.

Oil Specs for Diesel Engines (3.0 TDI)

Diesel-powered 2014 Q5 models, particularly in Europe and some other markets, have different emissions hardware and oil demands. For these vehicles, the usual standard is VW 507 00.

The following list explains the essentials of oil selection for 3.0 TDI owners.

• Required spec: VW 507 00 (low-ash “longlife” oil for DPF-equipped diesels)
• Typical viscosity: 5W-30 fully synthetic (most commonly approved for VW 507 00)
• DPF compatibility: VW 507 00 is formulated to protect diesel particulate filters from ash buildup
• Brand flexibility: Any manufacturer is acceptable as long as VW 507 00 is explicitly printed on the container
• Regional differences: Some markets may pair the diesel with flexible service intervals; using the exact VW 507 00 spec is crucial if following those intervals

Because running the wrong oil in a modern diesel can damage DPFs and emissions systems, owners of the 3.0 TDI Q5 should be especially strict about using VW 507 00 oils.

Recommended Oil Viscosity for a 2014 Audi Q5

While the VW spec is non-negotiable, viscosity has some flexibility, largely influenced by climate and manufacturer guidance. For most 2014 Q5 owners, dealers and independent Audi specialists converge on a few common choices.

Common Viscosity Recommendations by Engine

The following overview lists typical viscosity options used for each engine, assuming they meet the correct VW spec.

• 2.0 TFSI (gasoline):
  

  • 5W-40 synthetic, VW 502 00 – “default” choice in many workshops
  • 5W-30 synthetic, VW 502 00 – acceptable, often recommended in colder climates

• 3.0 TFSI (gasoline):
  

  • 5W-40 synthetic, VW 502 00 – frequently used for this supercharged V6
  • 5W-30 synthetic, VW 502 00 – sometimes preferred for fuel economy or cold starts

• 3.0 TDI (diesel):
  

  • 5W-30 synthetic, VW 507 00 – standard for most markets

Although multiple viscosities can be safe, the combination of VW specification and local climate should guide the final choice; when in doubt, the owner’s manual or dealership recommendation should override generic advice.

How to Verify the Correct Oil for Your Specific Q5

Even within a single model year, there can be variations in service recommendations based on regional rules, software updates, or past technical bulletins. Confirming the correct oil for your exact vehicle avoids guesswork.

Steps to Confirm the Right Oil

The following steps help owners double-check that the oil they are using is correct for their 2014 Audi Q5.

1. Check the owner’s manual:
   

   • Look under the “Engine Oil” or “Fluids” section.
   • Find the VW standard (e.g., VW 502 00 or VW 507 00) and sample viscosities.

2. Use the under-hood label:
   

   • Some vehicles have a sticker under the hood or near the oil fill cap specifying oil standard and viscosity.

3. Call an Audi dealer with your VIN:
   

   • The service department can pull exact engine and regional recommendations based on your VIN.

4. Read oil container labels carefully:
   

   • Look for “VW 502 00” (gasoline) or “VW 507 00” (diesel).
   • A generic “meets or exceeds” claim without explicit VW code is not enough.

5. Avoid mixing incompatible oils:
   

   • If topping up, use oil with the same VW spec and similar viscosity already in the engine.

This verification process minimizes the risk of using an incompatible formulation that could impact engine longevity, warranty considerations, or emissions performance.

Oil Change Intervals and Practical Tips

Using the right oil is only half the battle; changing it at appropriate intervals is equally critical, especially for turbocharged and direct-injection engines prone to deposits and sludge if neglected.

Typical Service Intervals for a 2014 Audi Q5

The points below summarize common oil change practices for this model year, bearing in mind that local schedules and driving patterns can require adjustments.

• Normal service (many markets): Around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using the correct VW-approved synthetic oil.
• Severe service (short trips, extreme heat/cold, dusty conditions, lots of idling): Often reduced to 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km).
• Turbo engines (2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI): Benefit from the more conservative end of the interval range, especially in hot climates or spirited driving.
• Diesel engines with DPF (3.0 TDI): Should strictly use VW 507 00 oil and not exceed recommended intervals to protect emissions systems.
• Monitor oil level: Check periodically, particularly on higher-mileage engines, as some consumption is considered normal by Audi.

These guidelines are starting points rather than rigid rules; real-world intervals should reflect how and where the vehicle is driven, combined with any specific instructions in the service booklet or local Audi guidance.

Consequences of Using the Wrong Oil

Modern Audi engines are engineered around narrow tolerances, high temperatures, and sophisticated emissions systems. Using incorrect oil can have delayed but serious consequences.

What Can Go Wrong with Incompatible Oil

The following issues are among the most common risks if a 2014 Audi Q5 is run on oil that does not meet its required VW specification.

• Increased engine wear: Inadequate protection at high temperature or under boost, leading to premature wear of bearings, camshafts, and turbochargers.
• Sludge and deposits: Oil that breaks down too quickly can form sludge, clogging oil passages and sticking piston rings.
• Turbocharger damage: Turbochargers rely heavily on high-quality, heat-resistant oil; wrong formulations can carbonize and restrict oil flow.
• Emissions system issues: For diesels, non-507 00 oil can damage diesel particulate filters; for gasoline engines, the wrong additive package can affect catalytic converter life.
• Warranty and resale concerns: Documented use of non-approved oil may complicate warranty claims and can be a red flag for future buyers or inspectors.

Although a single top-up with a slightly off-spec oil rarely causes immediate failure, repeated use or full oil changes with non-approved products substantially increases long-term risk.

Summary

A 2014 Audi Q5 typically uses fully synthetic oil that meets strict Volkswagen/Audi standards: VW 502 00 for gasoline engines (2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI, and most hybrids) and VW 507 00 for diesel engines (3.0 TDI). For gasoline models, 5W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic oil carrying the VW 502 00 approval is the norm; for diesels, 5W-30 synthetic meeting VW 507 00 is standard. The exact choice should be confirmed in the owner’s manual or with the VIN at an Audi dealer, and oil change intervals should follow Audi’s schedule, adjusted for driving conditions. Ensuring the correct spec and timely service is crucial to protecting the engine, turbocharger, and emissions systems in the 2014 Audi Q5.

What type of oil does my 2014 Audi Q5 take?

Mobil 1 Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-30 5 Quart.

What will happen if I put 5W30 instead of 5w40?

5w40 offers thicker, high-temperature protection for hot areas, while 5w30 flows better for colder climates and improves fuel mileage. For high mileage engines, 5w40’s slightly thicker consistency may help to reduce leaks.

Can an Audi take 5W-30 oil?

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.

What engine oil does the Audi Q5 use?

The Audi Q5 requires a fully synthetic engine oil, with common viscosity ratings being 5W-30 or 5W-40, though 0W-40 is also used in some models, particularly newer ones or those in colder climates. Always check your specific owner’s manual for the exact specification, as the correct type can depend on the model year and engine, such as VW 502 00 or 504 00/507 00 specifications. 
Oil type and viscosity

• Synthetic oil: The Audi Q5 needs a fully synthetic motor oil for optimal protection. 
• Common viscosities: The most common viscosity grades are 5W-30 and 5W-40. 
• Other options: Some models, like the 2018 2.0T, may recommend 0W-40. 
• Climate consideration: You may prefer 0W-30 or 0W-40 in colder climates and 5W-30 or 5W-40 in moderate to warmer climates. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most important step. The manual will specify the exact oil type and specifications (like VW 502 00) needed for your particular Q5 model and engine, say eEuroparts.com and Blauparts.
• Meet specifications: Ensure the oil you choose meets the specific Audi/VW oil quality standards recommended for your vehicle, not just the viscosity rating.