What Kind of Oil a 2015 Audi RS5 Takes

The 2015 Audi RS5 4.2 FSI typically uses a fully synthetic 5W-40 engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification (or the newer VW 504 00 spec where approved), with a capacity of roughly 9.0 liters (about 9.5 quarts) including filter. This oil type is chosen to provide proper lubrication, thermal stability, and protection for the high-revving 4.2L V8 engine.

Understanding the 2015 Audi RS5’s Engine and Oil Requirements

The 2015 Audi RS5 is powered by a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 (engine code often referred to as CAU/CFSA, depending on market), designed to rev high and produce strong performance. Because of this, Audi specifies high-quality synthetic oil that can withstand elevated temperatures, high RPM, and extended service intervals without breaking down.

Official Oil Specification for the 2015 Audi RS5

While many owners focus on viscosity numbers such as 5W-40, the most critical factor for the RS5 is that the oil meets Audi/VW’s official performance specifications. These specifications ensure the oil has passed tests for wear protection, sludge control, and compatibility with the engine’s design.

Primary Audi/VW Oil Specs

The following list explains the main factory specifications you should look for on the oil container label when choosing oil for your 2015 Audi RS5.

• VW 502 00: This is the standard specification for high-performance gasoline engines in many Audi/VW models of this era. It is the most commonly recommended spec for the 4.2 FSI V8 in the RS5 when using conventional North American service intervals.
• VW 503 01 (older, less common): A superseded spec once used for some high-output engines; modern oils meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 generally replace this requirement. You may see it referenced in older documentation but it is less relevant today.
• VW 504 00: A newer, long-life specification covering certain extended-drain service regimes, often paired with low-SAPS formulations. In some regions and service schedules, an oil that meets 504 00 may also be acceptable for the RS5, provided it matches Audi’s current service guidance for your market.

In practice, choosing a fully synthetic oil explicitly labeled as meeting VW 502 00 (or 504 00 where your dealer confirms compatibility) is the safest and most straightforward way to protect the RS5’s engine while aligning with Audi’s engineering standards.

Recommended Viscosity Grades

Viscosity describes how thick or thin the oil is at cold start and at operating temperature. The 2015 RS5’s V8 is engineered to use oils that maintain strong protection under high load while still flowing adequately during cold starts.

Most Common Viscosity: 5W-40

The most widely recommended viscosity for the 2015 Audi RS5 is a fully synthetic 5W-40 that meets VW 502 00.

The next list outlines why 5W-40 is generally preferred for this engine and driving profile.

• Balanced cold-start performance: The “5W” rating means the oil remains fluid enough at lower temperatures, helping protect the engine during cold starts.
• Robust high-temperature protection: The “40” rating at operating temperature provides a thicker protective film when the engine is fully hot, especially important for high-RPM and spirited driving.
• Performance driving suitability: For track days, mountain runs, or frequent high-RPM use, 5W-40 offers an extra margin of protection compared with thinner oils, which is important in a performance-oriented car like the RS5.

Because of this balance between cold-flow and hot protection, 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 has become the de facto standard for many owners and independent Audi specialists working on the 4.2 FSI V8.

Other Acceptable Viscosities (Climate-Dependent)

While 5W-40 is commonly recommended, some regions and conditions may allow alternative viscosities, as long as the oil still meets the required VW spec.

The following list explains potential alternatives and when they might be used.

• 0W-40 (VW 502 00/504 00): Offers even better cold-start performance in very cold climates while retaining a 40-weight film at operating temperature. Often chosen in regions with harsh winters.
• 5W-30 (must meet VW 504 00 or appropriate spec): In some markets and for specific service schedules, a high-quality low-SAPS 5W-30 approved to VW 504 00 may be recommended by dealers. This can improve fuel economy slightly, but for aggressive driving, many enthusiasts still prefer 5W-40.
• 10W-40 (VW 502 00): Occasionally used in very warm climates, but generally less common, as it offers weaker cold-start characteristics. It is typically a secondary option rather than a primary recommendation.

Ultimately, climate, driving style, and dealer guidance should inform whether you deviate from 5W-40. Most owners in moderate climates stay with 5W-40 VW 502 00 for a strong balance of performance and protection.

Oil Capacity and Change Interval

The oil system in the 2015 Audi RS5’s 4.2 FSI is relatively large, reflecting the demands of a high-revving, high-output V8. Knowing how much oil the engine requires and how often to change it is essential for longevity and reliability.

Oil Capacity

Factory data and workshop references indicate that the 4.2 FSI V8 in the RS5 typically holds around 9.0 liters of oil (approximately 9.5 US quarts) including the oil filter. Always confirm exact capacity by:

The following list describes how to verify and fine-tune the fill level.

1. Consulting the owner’s manual: The manual for your specific model year and market will provide the official capacity and any notes on checking the level.
2. Filling slightly under spec first: Add about 8.5–9.0 liters, then check the electronic dipstick or MMI oil level display after the engine has run briefly and cooled, topping up as necessary.
3. Allowing for filter changes: Replacing the filter is assumed in the full capacity figure, so if for some reason the filter was not changed, the required volume could be marginally lower.

Because German V8s like the RS5’s are sensitive to both underfilling and overfilling, using the stated capacity as a guide and confirming with the oil level system is the safest method.

Recommended Change Intervals

Official service intervals vary by region and whether the car is on a fixed or flexible (long-life) maintenance schedule. However, performance-oriented owners often opt for more conservative intervals than the maximum suggested by manufacturers.

The following list highlights common practice and considerations for deciding when to change oil in a 2015 RS5.

• Factory long-life intervals: In some markets, Audi allows extended intervals (up to around 15,000 miles / 24,000 km or 1–2 years) under flexible service schedules using approved long-life oils. This is primarily aimed at average driving conditions.
• Enthusiast/independent recommendations: Many RS5 owners and independent Audi specialists favor shorter intervals of about 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km), particularly for hard driving or frequent short trips, to keep the 4.2 FSI cleaner and better protected.
• Severe use conditions: If the car sees track days, sustained high speeds, or very hot climates, even more frequent changes (e.g., every 5,000 miles / 8,000 km or annually) are often recommended.

Adhering to shorter, high-quality oil change intervals is seen as cheap insurance for a complex and expensive performance engine like the RS5’s V8, especially as these cars age.

Examples of Suitable Oils on the Market

Many major oil brands offer products that meet VW 502 00 or 504 00 in the recommended viscosities. Availability will depend heavily on your country and local suppliers.

Commonly Used 5W-40 VW 502 00 Oils

The next list provides examples of popular 5W-40 oils owners frequently use in the 2015 Audi RS5, subject to availability and regional branding.

• Castrol EDGE 5W-40 (VW 502 00/505 00): Often marketed as compatible with Audi/VW performance engines; sometimes co-branded in dealer networks depending on the region.
• Mobil 1 FS 5W-40 (or Mobil 1 ESP variants that meet 502 00/504 00): Widely available, known for strong high-temperature stability and shear resistance.
• Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 (VW 502 00/505 00): Popular among European car enthusiasts; specifically formulated to meet VW/Audi standards.
• Motul 8100 X-cess Gen2 5W-40 (VW 502 00/505 00): Another enthusiast-favored option for German performance engines, emphasizing wear and deposit control.

These products are examples rather than endorsements; always verify the latest label and product datasheet to ensure they still carry the relevant VW approvals, as formulations and approvals can change over time.

Checking and Maintaining Proper Oil Level

Because the RS5’s V8 is both high-revving and tightly engineered, maintaining the correct oil level is crucial. Consumption can vary by driving style and mileage, so periodic checks are essential, even between scheduled services.

Monitoring Oil Level

The RS5 typically uses an electronic oil level sensor with readout in the MMI or instrument cluster, rather than a traditional dipstick on many markets.

The list below outlines good practices when checking the oil level in your 2015 RS5.

• Check with engine warm and off: After a drive, let the engine sit for several minutes on level ground to allow the oil to drain back to the sump.
• Use the MMI or instrument display: Follow the owner’s manual instructions to display the oil level reading. Some cars require specific conditions (e.g., engine off, ignition on) to show the measurement.
• Avoid overfilling: Adding too much oil can cause foaming, increased crankcase pressure, and potential catalytic converter damage from oil entering the exhaust.

By making regular checks a habit—especially before long trips or spirited driving—you can catch low oil levels early and avoid running the engine under-lubricated.

Why Using the Correct Oil Matters

The 4.2 FSI engine in the 2015 RS5 is sophisticated, with direct injection, tight tolerances, and high specific output. Using the wrong oil can accelerate wear, trigger deposits, and undermine performance over time.

Risks of Incorrect Oil

The following points explain why straying significantly from Audi’s recommended specs and viscosities can be problematic.

• Increased engine wear: Oils that do not meet VW 502 00/504 00 may lack the specific additive balance needed to prevent wear under high-load, high-RPM conditions.
• Sludge and deposits: Inferior oil quality or overly long change intervals can lead to sludge buildup, sticking piston rings, and varnish on critical components.
• Warranty and repair costs: For vehicles still under any form of extended warranty or aftermarket protection, using non-approved oils can complicate claims, and out-of-warranty repairs on an RS5 V8 are expensive.

Sticking with a known, approved oil and reasonable change intervals is a key part of keeping the RS5’s engine strong, smooth, and reliable over the long term.

Summary

The 2015 Audi RS5’s 4.2 FSI V8 is designed to run on fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW 502 00 (or, where officially approved, VW 504 00) specifications. The most commonly recommended viscosity is 5W-40, with alternatives such as 0W-40 or certain 5W-30 oils acceptable in some climates and service regimes, provided they carry the correct VW approval. Oil capacity is roughly 9.0 liters (about 9.5 quarts) with a filter change.

Regular checks of the electronic oil level and reasonably conservative change intervals—often around 5,000–7,500 miles for enthusiast use—help preserve engine health. By choosing a reputable fully synthetic oil that clearly lists the VW 502 00 (or applicable 504 00) approval and adhering to proper maintenance practices, owners can give the RS5’s high-revving V8 the protection it needs for long-term performance.

Can I put 5W-30 in my Audi?

For most A4 engines, SAE 5W-40 grade motor oils are suitable, offering excellent protection in various temperatures. If this isn’t available, SAE 5W-30 or another motor oil with an alternative viscosity can be used as long as it adheres to Audi’s oil-quality standards.

What kind of oil does an Audi RS5 take?

Mobil 1 – Extended Performance 5W-30 High Mileage Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 Quart (Part No. 15021)

What kind of oil does a 2015 Audi use?

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

How much oil does a 2015 Audi RS5 take?

Engine Oil
Capacity: 10.2 quarts (with filter).