What Kind of Oil a 2016 Audi A5 Takes

A 2016 Audi A5 typically requires full-synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification, most commonly in a 5W-40 or 5W-30 viscosity, depending on climate and engine variant. In practice, that means choosing a high-quality European synthetic oil specifically approved for VW/Audi, rather than just any generic 5W-30 or 5W-40.

Understanding the 2016 Audi A5’s Oil Requirements

The 2016 Audi A5, whether equipped with the common 2.0 TFSI turbocharged gasoline engine or other regional variants, is engineered around strict Volkswagen Group oil standards. The critical factor is not just viscosity (like 5W-40), but that the oil meets or exceeds the VW 502 00 specification. Using oil that meets this standard helps protect the turbocharger, maintain fuel efficiency, reduce deposits, and keep the engine within warranty and service recommendations.

The Official Oil Specification: VW 502 00

For most 2016 Audi A5 gasoline engines in North America and Europe, VW 502 00 is the key specification printed in the owner’s manual and under-hood labels. This standard sets requirements for detergency, high-temperature stability, and protection against sludge and wear in high-output engines like Audi’s TFSI units.

Why VW 502 00 Matters More Than Just “Synthetic Oil”

Not all synthetic oils are created equal. Many meet broad industry standards (such as API SP or ACEA A3/B4), but VW 502 00 is a manufacturer-specific requirement tuned to the needs of Audi/VW turbocharged engines. Choosing oil that explicitly lists VW 502 00 on the bottle ensures it has passed additional tests related to long-drain intervals, turbocharger deposits, and high-temperature operation.

Recommended Viscosity Grades for the 2016 Audi A5

While the VW 502 00 spec is mandatory, Audi allows some flexibility in viscosity based on climate and operating conditions. In real-world service, most 2016 A5s are filled with 5W-40 or 5W-30 full-synthetic oil that meets VW 502 00.

Common Viscosity Options

The following list explains the most commonly recommended viscosity grades for a 2016 Audi A5 and when each is typically used.

• 5W-40 full-synthetic (VW 502 00) – Frequently the default choice from dealers and Euro-focused shops; offers strong high-temperature protection and is well-suited to spirited driving and hotter climates.
• 5W-30 full-synthetic (VW 502 00) – Also acceptable and often recommended in cooler or moderate climates; can offer marginally better fuel economy while still meeting Audi’s requirements.
• 0W-40 full-synthetic (VW 502 00) – Sometimes used in very cold climates where extreme low-temperature flow is important, as long as it carries the 502 00 approval.

In practice, either 5W-40 or 5W-30 with the VW 502 00 approval will satisfy Audi’s specification for most owners, with 5W-40 favored where high-heat or aggressive driving is common, and 5W-30 more common in moderate environments.

Popular Oil Brands That Meet Audi’s Requirements

Several major oil manufacturers produce products that explicitly meet VW 502 00. Using one of these brand-name oils makes it easier to match both the viscosity and manufacturer approval printed in the Audi owner’s manual.

Examples of Suitable Oils

The list below highlights typical full-synthetic oils that often carry the VW 502 00 approval and are commonly used in 2016 Audi A5 models. Always verify the label, as formulations and approvals can change over time.

• Castrol EDGE 5W-40 or 5W-30 (European Formula / Euro Car) – Frequently used by Audi dealers and marketed specifically for European performance cars.
• Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 or 5W-40 (European Car Formula / ESP lines where labeled 502 00) – Widely available and known for strong high-temperature and turbo protection.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec or Synthoil lines (various 5W-40 / 5W-30) – German-made oils popular among Audi/VW enthusiasts, with clear VW 502 00 labeling.
• Pennzoil Platinum Euro 5W-40 or 5W-30 – Designed for European specs and often carries VW 502 00 approval in certain variants.
• Valvoline Advanced / Modern Engine with European approvals – Select Euro-blend products list VW 502 00 on the back label.

Any of these oils can be appropriate for a 2016 Audi A5 as long as the specific bottle you choose clearly shows “VW 502 00” (or “VW 502.00”) in its approval list and matches the viscosity suitable for your climate.

Different Engines and Regional Variants

The 2016 Audi A5 was sold with different engine options depending on market—most commonly the 2.0 TFSI gasoline four-cylinder, but also V6 and diesel variants in some regions. While the VW 502 00 standard is the dominant requirement for gasoline engines, diesel engines may call for different VW standards, such as VW 504 00/507 00.

Checking Your Specific Engine Code and Manual

The following considerations can help owners with less common variants confirm their oil choice is correct:

• Gasoline 2.0 TFSI (very common) – Typically requires VW 502 00; 5W-40 or 5W-30 full-synthetic is standard.
• Gasoline V6 (where offered) – Often uses the same VW 502 00 spec; exact viscosity recommendations should be confirmed in the manual.
• Diesel (TDI) versions – May require low-ash oils meeting VW 504 00/507 00 or a similar diesel-specific spec; these are different from 502 00 and aimed at protecting diesel particulate filters.
• Oil-change intervals – Long-life service regimes in some markets (flexible intervals) are usually tied to higher-grade VW 504 00/507 00 oils; fixed-interval service typically uses VW 502 00 oils.

Because engine options and emissions systems differ by country, confirming the exact spec in your owner’s manual or via an Audi dealer is essential, especially if your car is a diesel or a special regional model.

How to Verify You’re Using the Right Oil

Even with clear general guidelines, the safest approach is to cross-check your oil choice against Audi’s original documentation and the labeling on the oil container. This helps avoid mistakes that can affect engine longevity and warranty coverage.

Practical Verification Steps

The following steps outline how to be sure you are using the correct oil in a 2016 Audi A5.

1. Consult the owner’s manual – Look for the “Engine Oil” or “Specifications” section, which will list required VW approvals (e.g., VW 502 00).
2. Check under-hood labels – Many Audi vehicles include a sticker or cap marking indicating the oil standard or viscosity range.
3. Read the back of the oil bottle – Confirm the exact VW approvals; do not rely solely on front-label marketing terms like “European Formula.”
4. Match viscosity to climate – Use 5W-40 in hotter climates or more demanding driving, and 5W-30 or 0W-40 in cooler conditions, as permitted by the manual.
5. Verify with a dealer or trusted specialist – If unsure, provide your VIN to an Audi dealer or independent Euro specialist to confirm the correct spec and interval.

Following these checks ensures you do more than simply pick a synthetic oil—you confirm that it aligns with Audi’s engineering requirements and your specific driving conditions.

Oil Capacity and Service Considerations

Beyond the oil type, the 2016 Audi A5 has a specific oil capacity and maintenance schedule that influence how often and how much oil you’ll need. While capacities can vary slightly by engine, the 2.0 TFSI typically holds around 4.6–5.0 liters (about 4.9–5.3 US quarts), including the filter, but owners should always verify for their exact engine code.

Maintenance Interval and Best Practices

Key maintenance points help ensure that the correct oil spec translates into real-world engine protection.

• Service interval – Many 2016 A5s are set for about 10,000 miles or 12 months (16,000 km / 1 year) between oil changes, though shorter intervals (5,000–7,500 miles) are often recommended for heavy city driving or frequent short trips.
• Use a quality oil filter – Always pair approved oil with a reputable filter (OEM Audi/VW, Mann, Mahle, Hengst, etc.) to maintain proper filtration and flow.
• Monitor oil level and consumption – Turbocharged engines can consume some oil; checking the dipstick or MMI level display regularly is prudent.
• Avoid mixing incompatible oils – Topping off in an emergency is fine, but returning to a single, properly approved oil at the next change is best practice.

Keeping to these service practices, and using oil that meets Audi’s specifications, reduces wear, minimizes sludge formation, and supports long-term reliability for the A5’s engine and turbocharger.

Summary

A 2016 Audi A5 generally requires full-synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification, most commonly in a 5W-40 or 5W-30 viscosity, adjusted for climate and driving style. While various brands can satisfy this requirement, the crucial factor is the VW approval printed on the bottle, not just the viscosity or the word “synthetic.” For diesel or less common engine variants, different VW standards such as 504 00/507 00 may apply, making it important to confirm details in the owner’s manual or with an Audi dealer. By verifying both the specification and viscosity, and following appropriate service intervals, owners can ensure the 2016 A5’s engine is protected and performing as Audi intended.

What oil does the Audi A5 2016 take?

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

Can I put 5W-30 in my Audi A5?

A5 2.0 TFSI engines may experience higher oil consumption and occasional oil leaks around seals. The Audi A5 2.0 TFSI requires synthetic 5W-30 oil meeting VW 502 00/505 00 standards.

What kind of oil does a 2016 Audi take?

Valvoline European Vehicle Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-40 1 Quart.

What engine oil does the Audi A5 use?

The recommended oil for an Audi A5 is typically a full synthetic 5W-40 or 5W-30 oil that meets Audi’s specifications, such as VW 502 00. However, it’s essential to verify the specific requirements in your owner’s manual or by using the vehicle’s on-board computer system, as the exact type can vary by model year and engine. 
Key details

• Viscosity: The most common recommendations are 5W-40 or 5W-30. 
• Type: Use a full synthetic engine oil. 
• Specifications: Ensure the oil meets the required Audi/Volkswagen specification, such as VW 502 00, which is often listed on the oil cap or in the owner’s manual. 
• How to check:
  • Consult your owner’s manual. 
  • Use the vehicle’s on-board computer system, which can often provide specific information for your car. 
  • Check the oil cap for the recommended viscosity and specification.