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What Kind of Oil a 2018 Audi S5 3.0T Takes

The 2018 Audi S5 3.0T requires a high-quality, fully synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 specification, typically in viscosity grades like 0W-40 or 5W-40, with change intervals generally around every 10,000 miles or once a year under normal conditions. Understanding this specification—and why it matters—is crucial to protecting the S5’s turbocharged V6 engine and maintaining performance and longevity.

The Official Oil Specifications for the 2018 Audi S5 3.0T

For the 2018 Audi S5 with the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 (engine code often referred to as EA839), Audi and Volkswagen specify particular oil standards that ensure the engine is protected under a wide range of temperatures and driving conditions. Using oil that meets these specs is more important than the brand name on the bottle.

Below are the key specifications and types of oil that are suitable for this model.

  • Specification: VW 502 00 (commonly used for gasoline engines in North America)
  • Alternative spec (often in long-life scenarios/Europe): VW 504 00 (low-ash, long-drain oils; acceptable where available and compatible)
  • Oil type: Fully synthetic motor oil only
  • Typical viscosity grades: 0W-40 or 5W-40 (most common), sometimes 5W-30 if it explicitly meets VW 502 00 / 504 00
  • API/ACEA: Often carries API SN or newer (e.g., SP) and ACEA A3/B4, but VW spec is the primary requirement

These specifications are designed to ensure the oil can handle high temperatures, turbocharger demands, and extended change intervals without breaking down or causing harmful deposits.

Recommended Viscosity Grades

Viscosity describes how thick or thin motor oil is at different temperatures. For the 2018 Audi S5 3.0T, you must choose a viscosity that is compatible with regional climate conditions while still meeting the correct VW specification.

The following viscosities are commonly recommended for this engine, assuming they meet VW 502 00 or VW 504 00:

  • 0W-40: Excellent for cold starts in colder climates while still offering strong protection when hot
  • 5W-40: Widely used, particularly in moderate to hot climates; balances cold-start performance with high-temp protection
  • 5W-30: Acceptable only if it explicitly meets VW 502 00 or 504 00; sometimes used for efficiency and in markets favoring lower-viscosity oils

Choosing between these viscosities usually comes down to climate and availability, but the critical factor is that the oil bottle clearly lists the correct VW specification.

Oil Capacity and Change Interval

Apart from using the correct oil type and spec, it is important to know how much oil the engine holds and how often it should be changed to keep the 3.0T V6 running reliably.

Oil Capacity

The 2018 Audi S5 3.0T engine takes roughly 6.3–6.5 liters (about 6.7–6.9 US quarts) of oil when doing an oil and filter change. Always verify by checking the dipstick or electronic oil level display after filling, and top up carefully if needed.

Recommended Change Intervals

Modern Audis have flexible service intervals, but many owners and independent specialists prefer more conservative schedules, especially for turbocharged engines.

These are the typical guidelines for oil change intervals on a 2018 S5 3.0T:

  • Manufacturer guideline (normal use): Around every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
  • Severe/spirited use (recommended by many enthusiasts/shops): Every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km), particularly if you drive the car hard or do frequent short trips
  • Track use or frequent high-load driving: Consider shorter intervals, e.g., around every 3,000–5,000 miles (5,000–8,000 km), depending on how the car is driven

More frequent oil changes than the official maximum interval are an inexpensive way to extend engine life, especially on a turbocharged performance model like the S5.

Brand Examples That Meet the Audi Spec

While Audi dealerships often use their own branded or Volkswagen Group–labeled oil, many reputable aftermarket brands produce oils that meet VW 502 00 or 504 00. The brand is secondary to meeting the correct specification and viscosity.

Below are some well-known examples typically offered in 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-30 that often meet the required specs (always confirm the label and current product data sheet):

  • Castrol Edge or Castrol Edge Euro (0W-40 or 5W-40 with VW 502 00 / 504 00 approval)
  • Mobil 1 FS European Car Formula 0W-40 (VW 502 00/505 00)
  • Liqui Moly Top Tec or Leichtlauf series oils that carry VW 502 00 / 504 00
  • Shell Helix Ultra / Pennzoil Platinum Euro formulations with VW 502 00 / 504 00 approval
  • Motul Specific or Motul 8100 series oils labeled for VW 502 00 / 504 00

These products are widely available and designed for European performance engines, making them common choices among Audi owners and independent specialists.

How to Verify the Correct Oil

To avoid mistakes, drivers should confirm oil suitability both in the vehicle documentation and on the oil container itself. A quick check can prevent using an oil that may not protect the engine adequately.

Here are steps to verify that an oil is correct for a 2018 Audi S5 3.0T:

  1. Check the owner’s manual: Look for the section on engine oil; it will list VW 502 00 (and possibly VW 504 00) as the required standard.
  2. Read the oil label carefully: On the back or front of the bottle, verify that it explicitly states “VW 502 00” or “VW 504 00.”
  3. Confirm viscosity: Ensure the viscosity grade (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-30) is appropriate for your climate and matches typical Audi recommendations.
  4. Cross-check with the manufacturer’s website: Oil makers publish current approvals and specifications; product names can change over time.
  5. Ask a trusted shop or dealer: If uncertain, confirm with an Audi dealer or a reputable European car specialist.

This verification process helps ensure the oil you choose will not only physically fit the engine but also meet Audi’s chemical and performance requirements.

Why the Correct Oil Matters for the 3.0T V6

The 2018 S5’s 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 is a high-output engine, and its performance depends heavily on the quality and characteristics of the oil circulating through it. Using substandard or incorrect oil can cause issues that may not appear immediately but can be costly in the long run.

The correct oil helps with the following critical areas:

  • Turbocharger protection: High-temperature stability prevents coking and deposits in the turbocharger bearings.
  • Wear reduction: Proper viscosity and additives minimize wear on camshafts, bearings, and timing components.
  • Sludge and deposit control: Detergent and dispersant additives keep internal passages clean and prevent sludge buildup.
  • Fuel economy and performance: Optimized viscosity reduces drag while maintaining sufficient film strength.
  • Emission system compatibility: Low-ash formulations (such as those meeting VW 504 00) can help protect catalytic converters and particulate filters where applicable.

These benefits combine to maintain both the immediate driving experience—smooth power delivery and quiet operation—and the long-term durability of the engine.

Summary

The 2018 Audi S5 3.0T should be filled with fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW 502 00—or VW 504 00 where applicable—in a suitable viscosity such as 0W-40 or 5W-40. The engine holds roughly 6.3–6.5 liters (about 6.7–6.9 quarts), and oil should be changed at least every 10,000 miles or 12 months, with more frequent changes advisable for hard or spirited driving. Prioritizing the correct VW specification over brand names is essential, and confirming both spec and viscosity on the oil label ensures the S5’s turbocharged V6 remains protected, efficient, and reliable over the long term.

What kind of oil does an Audi 3.0 T take?

The recommended oil for an Audi 3.0T is full synthetic 5W-40, which meets the VW 502 00 specification. Some models may also use other viscosities like 0W-40, 0W-30, or 5W-30 depending on the specific year and climate, but always confirm the oil meets the required Audi/Volkswagen standard. 
Key details

  • Primary recommendation: Full synthetic 5W-40 oil 
  • Required specification: Look for oil that meets the Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standard, specifically the VW 502 00 standard. 
  • Alternative viscosities: In some cases, 5W-30 or 0W-40 full synthetic oil may be acceptable depending on the model year and your climate. Always check your owner’s manual to be sure. 
  • Capacity: The oil capacity varies by model, but a common capacity is around 7.2 to 8.1 quarts (or 7 to 7.7 liters) when changing the filter. Always check your owner’s manual or the dipstick after refilling. 

What kind of oil does a Audi S5 3.0 TFSI take?

7 LITRES CASTROL EDGE 5W30 MOTOR OIL. FOR AUDI S5 3.0 TFSI V6 MK1.

What oil does the 2018 Audi S5 use?

The correct oil for a 2018 Audi S5 is 0W-20 full synthetic oil that meets the VW 508 00 specification. If this specific oil is unavailable, you can use a different viscosity grade suitable for your climate, but it must meet the specified Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standard. A full synthetic oil is recommended, and the engine requires approximately 7.7 quarts (7.28 liters) of oil, including the filter.
 
Oil specifications

  • Viscosity: 0W-20
  • Specification: VW 508 00
  • Composition: Full synthetic
  • Capacity: 7.7 quarts (7.28 liters) with filter 

Important notes

  • Always use the correct specification: Using oil that meets the VW 508 00 standard is critical for modern engines, as recommended by the manufacturer. 
  • Check your owner’s manual: While the general recommendation is 0W-20, it is always best to confirm the specific oil type and quantity in your owner’s manual. 
  • Consider climate: If 0W-20 is not available in your area, you can use a different viscosity grade that is suitable for your climate and operating conditions, as long as it meets the VW oil quality standard. 
  • Change interval: With the VW 508 00 specification, the recommended oil change interval is every 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. 

How much oil does a Audi S5 v6t take?

7.7 quarts
7.7 quarts (with filter).

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