What Kind of Oil a 2017 Audi A4 Takes

A 2017 Audi A4 typically requires full synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification, most commonly in 5W-40 (or 0W-40 in cold climates), with the exact grade and capacity depending on the engine variant. Below is a detailed guide to help owners choose the correct oil and avoid costly engine problems.

The Official Oil Specification for a 2017 Audi A4

The central point for any Audi oil choice is the manufacturer specification, not just the viscosity numbers on the bottle. Audi (via Volkswagen Group) certifies oils with specific standards that cover wear protection, detergents, and performance under different driving conditions.

For most 2017 Audi A4 gasoline engines sold in North America and many other markets, the required oil standard is:

• VW 502 00 – for gasoline engines, non–LongLife service

This means that as long as the oil is fully synthetic and explicitly labeled as meeting “VW 502 00,” it is considered suitable for standard service intervals on a 2017 Audi A4 gasoline model. Oils that only list generic API or ACEA ratings, without VW 502 00, should be avoided, even if the viscosity seems correct.

Recommended Oil Viscosity Grades

Viscosity describes how thick or thin the oil is at low and high temperatures. Audi lists several acceptable viscosities, but some grades are more commonly recommended depending on climate and driving style.

Common Factory-Appropriate Viscosities

The following viscosity grades are typically recommended for a 2017 Audi A4 with a gasoline engine when they meet the VW 502 00 spec:

• 5W-40 full synthetic – the most commonly recommended grade for many climates
• 0W-40 full synthetic – preferred for colder climates where winter starts are frequent
• 5W-30 full synthetic – sometimes permitted, but must explicitly meet VW 502 00; not all 5W-30 oils do

Most owners and independent Audi specialists favor a high-quality 5W-40 or 0W-40 VW 502 00 oil, as these balances cold-start performance with strong high-temperature protection, especially for turbocharged engines.

Engine Variants and Approximate Oil Capacity

The exact engine in a 2017 Audi A4 influences how much oil the car takes, even though the specification standard (VW 502 00) generally remains the same for gasoline models. Many 2017 A4s are equipped with turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, but regional variations exist.

Typical Gasoline Engine (2.0 TFSI) Oil Capacity

For the commonly found 2.0 TFSI engine in a 2017 Audi A4, the approximate oil capacity including filter is:

• About 5.7–6.0 liters (roughly 6.0–6.3 US quarts)

This figure can vary slightly depending on exact engine code and whether the filter is fully drained and replaced, so it is best to add slightly less than the full amount first, then top up to the correct level after checking the dipstick or electronic oil level readout.

Diesel Models (if applicable in your market)

In some regions, the 2017 Audi A4 was also sold with diesel engines. These may require different VW standards (such as VW 507 00 for many modern diesels), and oil capacity also changes by engine type. Diesel models can have:

• Different VW specification – often VW 507 00 for many TDI engines
• Similar but not identical capacities – commonly around 5.0–6.0 liters, depending on displacement and hardware

Because diesel requirements are stricter on emissions systems and after-treatment devices, owners of diesel A4s should consult the exact engine code and manual, and only use oils clearly marked for the appropriate VW diesel spec.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific Car

Even among 2017 A4 models, there can be regional variations, special editions, or running production changes. To be fully certain you’re using the right oil, it’s important to cross-check with multiple reliable sources.

Steps to Verify the Correct Oil

The following steps help you verify that you’re selecting the correct oil for your particular 2017 Audi A4:

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look for the “Engine Oil” or “Specifications” section; it will list VW 502 00 (or another relevant spec) and acceptable viscosities.
2. Look under the hood: Some cars have a label or sticker near the engine bay or oil fill cap indicating the approved oil standard.
3. Use your VIN at a dealer: Audi service departments can look up your exact engine code and confirm both the spec and capacity by VIN.
4. Cross-reference the oil bottle: Ensure the bottle clearly states “VW 502 00” (or the standard in your manual); don’t rely only on “for European cars” branding.
5. Check regional service bulletins: In some markets, Audi may issue updated guidance, for example, if an engine is moved to a LongLife service regime or if a new standard supersedes an old one.

Following these verification steps reduces the risk of choosing an oil that seems appropriate by viscosity but does not meet Audi’s chemical and performance standards.

Why the VW 502 00 Specification Matters

The VW 502 00 standard is more than a marketing label. It defines how the oil must perform in terms of engine cleanliness, protection against wear, and stability under heat, especially important for turbocharged engines like those in the 2017 A4.

Key Reasons to Use VW 502 00–Approved Oil

Choosing a VW 502 00 oil instead of a generic synthetic helps in several critical areas:

• Turbocharger protection: Ensures the oil can withstand high temperatures at the turbo, reducing the risk of coking and bearing wear.
• Engine cleanliness: Maintains detergency and dispersancy to prevent sludge and varnish buildup.
• Shear stability: Resists thinning at high stress and high RPM, keeping viscosity in the intended range.
• Fuel system and emission compatibility: Formulated to work with modern fuel and emission control systems without causing excessive deposits.
• Warranty and longevity: Aligns with Audi’s design assumptions, supporting engine life and any remaining warranty coverage.

These factors collectively explain why using an oil that simply says “full synthetic 5W-40” but does not carry VW 502 00 can be risky for long-term reliability.

Service Intervals and Top-Up Practices

Even with the correct oil, how often you change it and how you monitor levels will affect engine health. Many 2017 A4s use fixed (time/mileage-based) service intervals, but driving style and conditions can justify shorter intervals.

Typical Change Intervals for a 2017 Audi A4

While intervals can vary by region and service program, a common pattern for non–LongLife service is:

• Every 10,000 miles (about 15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using VW 502 00 oil.

Many independent Audi specialists, especially in severe-climate or mostly city-driving scenarios, recommend more frequent changes—around 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km)—to reduce wear on turbocharged engines, though this is more conservative than the official interval.

Monitoring and Topping Up Oil

Audi engines can consume small amounts of oil between services, particularly under spirited driving. To protect the engine, you should adopt consistent monitoring habits.

Useful guidelines for monitoring and top-ups include:

• Check regularly: Use the dipstick or electronic oil level system every few weeks or before long trips.
• Top up with the same spec: Always use oil that meets VW 502 00 and, ideally, the same viscosity and brand already in the engine.
• Avoid overfilling: Add small amounts at a time and recheck; overfilling can cause foaming or catalytic converter issues.
• Watch for abnormal use: Sudden increases in oil consumption may indicate developing mechanical issues (leaks, turbo seals, PCV problems).

Maintaining correct oil level and spec between changes is as important as performing the scheduled oil services themselves, especially on performance-oriented engines.

Brand Examples That Typically Meet VW 502 00

Multiple reputable oil manufacturers produce products that meet the VW 502 00 specification; the key is to verify the certification on the label rather than rely on brand reputation alone.

Commonly Used Brands and Product Lines

While product names can change and availability differs by country, the following lines often include VW 502 00–approved formulations (always check the label to confirm):

• Castrol EDGE / Castrol EDGE Euro – certain 0W-40 and 5W-40 variants with VW 502 00 approval.
• Mobil 1 ESP or Mobil 1 FS – specific 0W-40 and 5W-40 formulas listing VW 502 00.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec / Synthoil / Leichtlauf – multiple 5W-40 and 0W-40 products approved for VW 502 00.
• Shell Helix Ultra – particular 5W-40 or 0W-40 variants carrying VW 502 00.
• OEM-labeled Audi/VW oil – sold at dealerships, usually repackaged from a major oil company and guaranteed to meet the spec.

Choosing from these or similar high-quality oils with explicit VW 502 00 approval helps ensure your 2017 Audi A4 receives the protection its engine was designed around.

Summary

A 2017 Audi A4 gasoline model is engineered to run on full synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification, most commonly in 5W-40 (or 0W-40 for colder climates), with an oil capacity around 5.7–6.0 liters including the filter for the 2.0 TFSI engine. Diesel variants, where available, may require different VW specs such as VW 507 00. Owners should confirm details using the owner’s manual, VIN-based dealer information, and the labeling on the oil container. Sticking to the proper VW-spec synthetic oil, monitoring levels, and following appropriate change intervals are critical steps for preserving performance, reliability, and longevity in a 2017 Audi A4.