What Kind of Oil a 2017 Audi Q5 Takes

A 2017 Audi Q5 generally requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 (for gasoline) or VW 507 00 (for diesel) specification, with viscosity most commonly 5W-40 (gas) or 5W-30 (diesel), but owners should confirm the exact spec in the owner’s manual or on the oil cap. This choice is critical to protecting the engine, maintaining performance, and keeping the warranty and long-term reliability intact.

Understanding the 2017 Audi Q5 Engine Options

The 2017 Audi Q5 was sold with different engines globally, but in North America and many other markets, the most common versions were gasoline 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI engines, alongside diesel TDI variants in some regions. Each engine type has a specific approved oil specification determined by Audi and Volkswagen Group, and using an oil that meets those specs is more important than focusing solely on brand.

Main Engine Types and Typical Oil Requirements

The following list outlines the usual oil specifications and viscosities recommended for the most common 2017 Audi Q5 engines. This helps owners quickly match their engine type to the correct oil category before buying or changing oil.

• 2.0 TFSI (gasoline, turbocharged 4-cylinder):
  Typically requires fully synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 (or the newer VW 504 00 if specified in the manual) with a common viscosity of 5W-40 in many markets. In colder climates or specific regions, Audi may approve 0W-40 or 5W-30 as long as the VW spec is met.
• 3.0 TFSI (gasoline V6, supercharged):
  Also generally uses fully synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 where specified) with typical viscosities of 5W-40 or 0W-40, chosen based on local climate and Audi guidance.
• 2.0 TDI / 3.0 TDI (diesel, in markets where sold):
  Diesel variants almost always require low-ash “long-life” synthetic oil meeting VW 507 00, commonly in 5W-30 viscosity. This spec is critical for engines equipped with diesel particulate filters (DPF).
• Special regional or performance variants:
  Some markets may have slightly different approvals (for example, oils also marked VW 504 00/507 00 for long-life intervals). When in doubt, the exact spec on the oil fill cap, service booklet, or owner’s manual takes precedence.

These guidelines give a practical overview, but the definitive answer always lies in the specific engine label, fill cap, and Audi documentation for your VIN and market, as Audi calibrates oil specifications to emissions rules, climate, and equipment such as DPFs.

The Official Specifications: What Audi and VW Require

Audi, under the Volkswagen Group, defines strict oil standards to ensure engine protection under turbocharging, high temperatures, and long service intervals. For a 2017 Q5, compliance with the proper VW oil standard is more important than choosing a specific brand name oil.

Gasoline Engines: VW 502 00 and 504 00

Gasoline 2017 Q5 models primarily rely on VW’s performance-focused oil specs. Understanding these designations helps owners avoid using generic synthetic oils that may not protect turbochargers or withstand long drain intervals.

• VW 502 00:
  The most common specification for gasoline Q5 engines of this era. It demands high detergency and stability at high temperatures, suitable for turbocharged engines like the 2.0 TFSI and the 3.0 TFSI.
• VW 504 00:
  A newer, long-life standard sometimes referenced in manuals or dealer literature. Oils that meet VW 504 00 typically also meet 502 00 and are designed for extended drain intervals, especially in markets with flexible service schedules.
• Viscosity guidance:
  Audi generally pairs these specs with 5W-40 or 0W-40 in many climates, with 5W-30 also approved in some regions. The key requirement is that the bottle explicitly lists VW 502 00 or 504 00.

When selecting oil for a gasoline Q5, owners should look first for the VW 502 00 or 504 00 approval on the label, then choose a viscosity that matches climate and Audi’s local recommendations.

Diesel Engines: VW 507 00

Diesel 2017 Q5 models, where available, use after-treatment systems like diesel particulate filters that are highly sensitive to sulfur and ash in engine oil. VW 507 00 was created specifically to protect these systems.

• VW 507 00:
  A low-SAPS (low ash, phosphorus, sulfur) specification compatible with DPFs, intended for modern TDI engines. It supports long drain intervals while minimizing deposits in exhaust systems.
• Typical viscosity:
  Most VW 507 00 oils are formulated as 5W-30, providing good cold-start performance and fuel efficiency while maintaining protection at operating temperature.
• Compatibility:
  Owners should never substitute generic diesel oil that lacks 507 00 approval, as incorrect oil can damage the DPF or lead to costly emissions system repairs.

For diesel Q5 models, the VW 507 00 label on the oil container is essential; using anything else risks both engine and emissions equipment over time.

Viscosity Choices: 0W-40, 5W-40, and 5W-30

Beyond the VW specification, viscosity determines how the oil behaves in different temperatures. For a 2017 Audi Q5, viscosities like 0W-40, 5W-40, and 5W-30 appear most frequently in documentation and on dealership invoices.

How Climate Influences Viscosity

Choosing viscosity is partly dictated by local climate conditions. This overview explains how the common viscosities for the 2017 Q5 perform across temperature ranges.

• 0W-40:
  Excellent for very cold climates due to superior cold-start flow (the “0W”), while still protecting at high operating temperatures (“40”). Often listed as an approved option in colder regions.
• 5W-40:
  A widely recommended all-round viscosity for many 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI engines. It balances cold-start performance with robust high-temperature protection, well-suited to moderate and warmer climates.
• 5W-30:
  Common for diesel engines with VW 507 00 and sometimes used on gasoline engines where specified. It can improve fuel economy slightly, and is often used in markets where long service intervals are prioritized.

While viscosity flexibility exists, following the values listed in the owner’s manual or on the service sticker is the safest approach, ensuring the Q5’s engine operates within Audi’s design assumptions.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific Q5

Because Audi offered multiple powertrains and regional calibrations, the single most reliable way to know the precise oil for a 2017 Q5 is to cross-check several official sources tied to your particular vehicle.

Sources You Should Check

The following steps help owners verify they are using the exact oil Audi intended for their VIN, reducing the risk of guesswork or outdated recommendations.

1. Owner’s Manual:
   The lubrication section lists the required VW oil specification (e.g., 502 00, 504 00, 507 00) and usually a viscosity chart based on climate.
2. Oil Filler Cap:
   Many Audi engines have the required VW spec printed or molded onto the oil cap; this is a quick, on-the-spot check in the engine bay.
3. Service Booklet / Sticker:
   Past dealer service records or windshield stickers often note the last oil spec and viscosity used, which can be a useful reference if they were done by an authorized Audi workshop.
4. VIN-based dealer lookup:
   An Audi dealer can enter your VIN into their system and confirm the correct spec and any updated guidance or technical service bulletins relevant to your engine.
5. Label on oil container:
   Once you know the VW spec and target viscosity, check the back label of the oil bottle for explicit text like “VW 502 00” or “VW 507 00.” Marketing terms such as “Euro formula” are not enough without the actual VW approval number.

Using these reference points in combination virtually eliminates uncertainty and ensures that even aftermarket oil changes adhere to Audi’s technical requirements.

Brand Choices and Aftermarket Options

Audi dealerships often use oils branded by major suppliers such as Castrol, Mobil, or other OEM partners. However, owners are not restricted to one brand, as long as the oil meets the required VW specification and viscosity.

Common Brands That Meet Audi/VW Specs

Many widely available oils are formulated specifically to meet VW 502 00, 504 00, and 507 00 standards, giving Q5 owners flexibility on where and what to buy.

• Castrol:
  Offers multiple “Edge” and “Edge Professional” products labeled with VW 502 00 or 507 00 approvals, often used by Audi dealers in various markets.
• Mobil 1:
  Products like Mobil 1 ESP and some “European Car Formula” variants often carry VW 502 00 / 504 00 / 507 00 on the label, depending on market.
• Liqui Moly:
  German-made oils with clearly marked VW approvals are popular among European car enthusiasts and independent Audi specialists.
• Pentosin, Motul, Total, Shell, and others:
  Many European-focused oil brands produce VW-approved formulations, particularly in 5W-30 and 5W-40 viscosities suited to Audi engines.

Choosing a reputable brand with the correct VW approval ensures that the oil meets Audi’s standards for detergency, stability, and compatibility with seals and emissions equipment.

Oil Change Intervals and Why the Right Oil Matters

Beyond simply choosing the right oil, following proper change intervals is vital for the longevity of a 2017 Audi Q5’s engine, especially given turbocharging and, in diesel models, complex emissions systems.

Service Schedules and Usage Patterns

Service intervals depend on local regulations, oil spec, and how the vehicle is driven. Understanding these factors helps owners decide how often to replace even high-quality synthetic oil.

• Fixed vs. flexible intervals:
  Some markets use fixed intervals (e.g., around 10,000 miles or 16,000 km, or 1 year, whichever comes first), while others employ variable “long-life” intervals based on sensors and driving style.
• Severe driving conditions:
  Frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, extreme heat or cold, towing, or dusty environments can justify more frequent oil changes than the maximum interval suggests.
• Turbocharger and DI considerations:
  Turbocharged and direct-injection engines place added demands on oil due to higher temperatures and the potential for deposit formation, making high-quality, correct-spec oil especially important.
• Warranty and resale impact:
  Using oil that does not meet VW specs, or ignoring recommended intervals, can create disputes on warranty claims and affect long-term engine health, which in turn impacts resale value.

Adhering to the appropriate interval with the correct spec oil is one of the most effective ways to prevent sludge, turbo wear, and premature engine problems in a 2017 Audi Q5.

Summary

A 2017 Audi Q5 requires fully synthetic oil that meets specific Volkswagen Group standards rather than just any generic synthetic. Gasoline engines typically call for oil approved to VW 502 00 (or sometimes VW 504 00), usually in 5W-40 or 0W-40, while diesel engines generally demand low-ash oil meeting VW 507 00, most often in 5W-30. The exact requirement is confirmed by the owner’s manual, oil cap, service records, or a VIN-based check with an Audi dealer.

Ultimately, the most important steps for owners are to verify the VW approval code on the oil bottle, choose the viscosity appropriate to their climate as specified by Audi, and follow recommended service intervals. Doing so helps protect the Q5’s turbocharged engine, supports emissions systems, and preserves performance and reliability over the life of the vehicle.

What type of oil does a 2017 Audi Q5 take?

Notes: Full synthetic. 5W-40.

What type of oil is best for Audi Q5?

The best oil for an Audi Q5 depends on the specific model year, but generally, a full synthetic oil with a 0W-40, 5W-30, or 5W-40 viscosity is recommended. Always confirm the exact specification (e.g., VW 502.00) required in your owner’s manual and choose a reputable brand like Mobil 1, Castrol, or Liqui Moly that meets those specifications.
 
Oil type and viscosity

• Full synthetic oil: This is the standard for modern Audi Q5 models due to its superior performance and protection. 
• Viscosity: Common recommendations are 0W-40, 5W-30, or 5W-40. Check your owner’s manual for the exact grade for your model year and climate. 
• Check the cap: The oil filler cap on your engine may also list the correct viscosity. 

Recommended brands and specifications

• Castrol: Often recommended by Audi and used in dealerships. Castrol Edge 5W-40 is a popular choice. 
• Mobil 1: Another top-tier option, with ESP Formula 5W-30 being specifically approved for certain Audi standards. 
• Liqui Moly: A highly regarded German-engineered oil, including Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40, is frequently recommended by Audi owners. 
• Specific VW/Audi specifications: Many high-quality oils will have a specific approval code, such as VW 502.00 or VW 504.00/507.00. Choosing an oil that meets the specific specification listed in your owner’s manual is the most important factor. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most critical step to ensure you use the correct oil for your specific vehicle and climate. 
• Oil capacity: Be aware that the Q5’s oil capacity varies by model year, typically ranging from about 5 to 5.5 quarts for the 4-cylinder engine. Add about five quarts initially, then check the level before adding more to avoid overfilling. 
• Oil consumption: Some Audi models with the 2.0T engine may consume oil. Using the correct oil and performing more frequent interim oil changes can help mitigate potential issues. 

Can I use 5W-30 in my Audi?

The recommended oil type is 5w-40 synthetic. While 5w-30 can work in a pinch, it’s best to use 5w-40 if you have it available. Yes, using Mobile One is perfectly acceptable.

What kind of oil does a 2017 Audi use?

STP Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-40 1 Quart.