What Kind of Oil a 2017 Audi A3 Takes

A 2017 Audi A3 typically requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 for some extended‑service/Euro oils), most commonly in viscosity grades 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 depending on engine and climate. In practice, owners should look for a high‑quality synthetic oil clearly labeled as meeting VW 502 00 (or 504 00) and follow the viscosity and capacity listed in the owner’s manual or on the under‑hood label.

Why Oil Specification Matters for the 2017 Audi A3

The 2017 Audi A3, like most modern German vehicles, is engineered to work with very specific oil formulations. These specifications are not just about viscosity; they also define additive packages, detergent levels, high‑temperature stability and compatibility with turbocharged engines and emissions systems. Using an oil that meets Audi’s official VW‑branded specs is essential to protect the turbo, maintain fuel economy, and keep warranty or goodwill repair options intact.

The Official Audi/VW Oil Specifications

Rather than recommending oil by brand, Audi specifies performance standards developed by Volkswagen Group. For the 2017 Audi A3 sold in North America, the main requirement is VW 502 00 (for gasoline engines) or the relevant diesel spec for TDI models outside the U.S.

Core Specifications for Gasoline 2017 A3 Models

The following list outlines the key VW oil specs relevant to the 2017 Audi A3’s gasoline engines and how they are used in practice.

• VW 502 00: The primary specification for most 2017 Audi A3 gasoline engines in North America, designed for high‑performance, turbocharged engines with normal drain intervals. Most dealership bulk oil and OEM‑branded bottles meet this standard.
• VW 504 00: A more advanced “long‑life” low‑ash specification used mainly in Europe and in some high‑end synthetic oils. It is backward‑compatible with VW 502 00 in many cases and is often found in premium Euro‑formulated 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 oils.
• VW 505 00 / 507 00 (diesel‑only): These are typically relevant for TDI diesel engines, mostly outside the U.S. market for the 2017 A3 generation. They are not appropriate for gasoline engines and should not be used in a U.S.‑spec A3 2.0 TFSI.

These specifications ensure the oil can handle the heat and stress of a turbocharged engine while protecting internal components and emissions systems. For most U.S.‑market 2017 A3 gasoline owners, VW 502 00 is the main label to look for on the bottle, with VW 504 00 acceptable when explicitly listed as compatible.

Recommended Viscosity Grades for the 2017 Audi A3

Viscosity describes how thick or thin the oil is at cold start and at operating temperature. For the 2017 Audi A3, Audi typically recommends a multi‑grade fully synthetic oil that balances cold‑weather start‑up protection with high‑temperature stability under turbo boost.

Common Viscosity Choices

The primary viscosity grades appropriate for a 2017 Audi A3 gasoline engine are set by Audi, but owners can choose within a narrow band depending on climate and specific oil availability.

• 5W‑40 (VW 502 00): Often the default recommendation in many North American Audi service departments. It offers strong high‑temperature protection, which is beneficial for turbocharged engines, spirited driving and hot climates.
• 5W‑30 (VW 502 00 or 504 00): Also common and frequently listed in the owner’s manual. It provides slightly lower viscosity at operating temperature, which can help efficiency while still protecting the engine when it meets the correct VW spec.
• 0W‑30 / 0W‑40 (VW 502 00 or 504 00): Often used in colder climates or premium “Euro” synthetic oils. The “0W” rating improves cold‑start flow, helpful for winter driving, while the “30” or “40” hot‑viscosity rating maintains proper protection at operating temperature when approved by Audi/VW.

While multiple viscosities may be acceptable, the key is that the product meets the VW 502 00 (or 504 00) specification and fits the temperature range described in the owner’s manual or service documentation.

Engine Variants and Oil Capacity

The exact oil capacity and sometimes the viscosity recommendation can vary slightly depending on which engine is installed in the 2017 A3. Most North American models feature small turbocharged gasoline engines, but there are regional differences and performance variants.

Main 2017 Audi A3 Engines (Gasoline)

The following list summarizes the typical engine options and their approximate oil capacities. Always verify against your specific VIN and owner’s manual, as capacities can vary slightly by production date and market.

• 1.8 TFSI (earlier 8V A3, some 2017 markets): Usually around 4.6–5.0 liters (about 4.9–5.3 US quarts) with filter change, using VW 502 00 synthetic oil in 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 as specified.
• 2.0 TFSI (common in 2017 A3 sedan/hatchback in North America): Typically around 5.2–5.7 liters (about 5.5–6.0 US quarts) with filter, again requiring fully synthetic VW 502 00 oil in 5W‑40 or 5W‑30.
• S3 2.0 TFSI (high‑output engine): Similar capacity range to the standard 2.0 TFSI, but more sensitive to oil quality due to higher stress. High‑quality VW 502 00 or 504 00 synthetic oil is strongly recommended, often in 5W‑40 or 0W‑40.

These capacities are approximate and should be treated as a guide, not a substitute for the actual specification in your owner’s manual or under‑hood sticker. Over‑ or under‑filling can cause problems in modern turbocharged engines, so careful measurement and dipstick checks are important.

Recommended Oil Types and Example Products

A number of mainstream and specialty oil brands produce fully synthetic formulations that meet VW 502 00 (and 504 00). Audi dealerships typically use OEM‑branded oil, but equivalents on the open market are widely available.

Common Aftermarket Oils That Often Meet VW 502 00

The following examples illustrate the kinds of oils that typically meet the required specifications for a 2017 Audi A3; always confirm the VW approval on the current label or product data sheet, as formulations may change.

• Castrol EDGE Euro 5W‑40 / 0W‑40: Many variants are labeled as meeting or exceeding VW 502 00 (and in some cases VW 504 00). These are widely used in European turbocharged engines.
• Mobil 1 ESP / FS Euro 0W‑40 / 5W‑40: Certain Euro‑formulated Mobil 1 products carry VW 502 00 and sometimes 504 00 approval, suitable for high‑performance and daily driving alike.
• Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W‑40 / Top Tec 4200 (5W‑30): German‑made oils commonly used in VAG (VW‑Audi Group) vehicles, often with official VW approvals listed on the bottle.
• Pennzoil Platinum Euro 5W‑40 / 0W‑40: U.S.‑available synthetic oils designed to meet European OEM specs, including VW 502 00, offering a balance of protection and efficiency.

Any of these can be appropriate for a 2017 Audi A3 provided the label clearly states compliance with VW 502 00 (or 504 00 where permitted). Brand is less important than meeting the correct specification and viscosity for your climate and driving style.

How Often to Change the Oil in a 2017 Audi A3

Oil change intervals depend on region, driving style and whether the car is following a fixed or variable service schedule. Modern synthetic oils last longer, but turbocharged engines can be hard on oil, especially with short trips or aggressive driving.

Typical Service Intervals and Considerations

The list below outlines common oil change interval guidance for a 2017 Audi A3 and factors that may justify more frequent service.

• Factory interval (many markets): Often around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, when using approved synthetic oil and normal driving conditions.
• Severe or short‑trip driving: Frequent cold starts, short commutes, stop‑and‑go traffic, hot climates or heavy use of turbo boost may justify shorter intervals, such as 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km).
• Performance‑oriented driving: Owners who regularly drive aggressively or track the car often change oil closer to every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) to ensure consistent protection.
• Time‑based changes: Even at low mileage, Audi and most experts recommend changing oil at least once per year to address moisture, fuel dilution and additive depletion.

While the onboard service indicator provides a baseline, adjusting intervals based on how and where the car is driven can extend engine life and maintain performance, particularly in a turbocharged Audi like the A3.

How to Verify the Correct Oil for Your Specific A3

Because trim levels, engine variants and regional differences can affect the recommended oil, owners should confirm the exact requirement for their specific vehicle rather than assuming all A3 models are identical.

Steps to Confirm the Correct Oil

The following steps help ensure the oil you select is fully compatible with your 2017 Audi A3’s engine and local conditions.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look for the “Engine Oil” section, which will list the required VW specification (typically VW 502 00 or 504 00) and acceptable viscosity grades based on temperature.
2. Look under the hood or on the oil cap: Many A3 models have a label or notation indicating the required oil spec (e.g., “VW 502 00” or “VW 504 00”).
3. Use your VIN at the dealer: A dealership service department can look up exact engine code and oil requirements from your VIN, clarifying any uncertainty about capacity or viscosity.
4. Verify bottle labeling: When buying oil, confirm that the container explicitly lists VW 502 00 (or 504 00) approval; “recommended for” is not the same as officially approved.
5. Consider climate and usage: Within the approved viscosities, choose a grade that matches your climate (e.g., 0W‑XX for very cold winters, 5W‑40 for hotter regions or performance‑oriented driving).

Following these steps helps ensure you are not only using a synthetic oil of the right thickness, but also one that meets Audi’s technical specifications, safeguarding both performance and long‑term reliability.

Summary

The 2017 Audi A3 is engineered to run on fully synthetic oil that meets Volkswagen Group’s official specifications—primarily VW 502 00 for gasoline engines, with VW 504 00 acceptable in some cases. Common viscosities include 5W‑40 and 5W‑30, with 0W‑30 or 0W‑40 also suitable in certain climates when they carry the correct VW approval. Typical oil capacity ranges from roughly 4.6 to 5.7 liters (about 4.9–6.0 quarts) depending on the specific engine, and change intervals are usually 10,000 miles/12 months under normal conditions, with shorter intervals advisable for severe use.

In practical terms, owners should select a reputable fully synthetic “Euro” oil that clearly states VW 502 00 (or 504 00) on the label, match the viscosity and capacity to the owner’s manual, and adjust change intervals to their driving conditions. Doing so will protect the A3’s turbocharged engine, maintain efficiency and support long‑term reliability.