What Kind of Oil a 2018 Audi Takes

A 2018 Audi typically requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW/Audi specification VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, most often in a 0W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40 viscosity depending on the specific engine and market. The exact oil spec and viscosity are printed in the owner’s manual and usually on an under‑hood label, and using the correct approved oil is critical for warranty protection, performance, and engine longevity.

Why the Exact Oil Spec Matters for a 2018 Audi

The question of “what kind of oil” for a 2018 Audi is more specific than it sounds because Audi engines are engineered around particular oil standards. Rather than just choosing any synthetic 5W-30, owners must use oil that explicitly states it meets the correct VW (Volkswagen Group) standard printed in the manual. This is especially important for turbocharged and direct‑injection engines common across the 2018 Audi lineup, which run hotter and demand higher resistance to breakdown and deposits.

The Key Audi/VW Oil Specifications for 2018 Models

Most 2018 Audi gasoline engines sold in North America and Europe are designed to use oils that meet VW/Audi’s in‑house standards, not just generic API or ACEA categories. These specifications control things like sludge resistance, high‑temperature stability, and compatibility with emissions systems and extended service intervals.

Most Common VW Oil Specs for 2018 Gasoline Engines

The following list outlines the most frequently used Volkswagen Group oil standards for 2018 Audi gasoline engines, explaining what each one is generally used for.

• VW 502 00 – The most common spec for many 2018 Audi gasoline engines on fixed (non–long-life) service intervals. Typically paired with 5W-40 or 5W-30 fully synthetic oil. Suitable for high‑performance turbo engines and spirited driving.
• VW 504 00 – A “LongLife” spec for extended drain intervals, typically with low‑ash, high‑quality 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic oils. Often used in Europe and in some long‑interval service regimes.
• VW 508 00 – A newer low‑viscosity spec (usually 0W-20) introduced for high‑efficiency engines. Some late‑2010s Audi models with specific engines—especially in Europe and newer MQB‑platform cars—call for this oil for fuel economy and emissions reasons.

Knowing whether your car calls for 502 00, 504 00, or 508 00 (or another VW spec) is more important than the brand name on the bottle, because the spec ensures the oil was tested and approved for that engine family.

Diesel Audi Models and Their Oil Needs

For 2018 Audi TDI (diesel) engines, different VW specs apply because of particulate filters (DPFs) and emissions hardware, which are very sensitive to ash and sulfur content in the oil.

The following list summarizes the typical diesel-oriented oil specs found on 2018 Audi models, along with their general use cases.

• VW 507 00 – The most common spec for modern Audi diesels with diesel particulate filters. Low‑SAPS (low sulphated ash, phosphorus, sulfur) oil, typically in 5W-30 viscosity, explicitly designed not to damage DPFs and catalytic converters.
• VW 505 01 / 506 01 – Older diesel specs, generally for earlier PD (Pumpe-Düse) engines. Less likely to apply to mainstream 2018 models, but still seen in documentation or in some markets.

For any 2018 Audi diesel, using oil that meets VW 507 00 is usually the safe baseline, but the owner’s manual remains the definitive reference because some engines and markets have special requirements.

Typical Oil Types by Popular 2018 Audi Models

Because the 2018 Audi lineup includes everything from compact sedans to performance SUVs, there is no single oil weight that fits every car. However, engines within a family tend to use similar specifications and viscosities.

2018 Audi A3 / S3 / RS 3

The 2018 A3 range uses small, turbocharged four‑cylinder engines that are particularly sensitive to oil quality and cleanliness because of high turbo temperatures and direct injection.

The list below highlights common oil requirements for the A3 family, noting that there can be market and engine‑code variation.

• A3 2.0 TFSI (gasoline) – Commonly: fully synthetic 5W-40 or 5W-30 meeting VW 502 00 (North America) or VW 504 00 (in some European long‑life service setups).
• A3 1.4 / 1.5 TFSI (gasoline, outside NA) – Often: 0W-30 or 5W-30 meeting VW 504 00 or VW 508 00, depending on region and whether long‑life service intervals are used.
• S3 2.0 TFSI – Typically: 5W-40 fully synthetic meeting VW 502 00; many owners and dealers favor 5W-40 for added high‑temperature protection under hard driving.
• RS 3 2.5 TFSI – Generally: 5W-40 or 0W-40 fully synthetic that meets VW 502 00. Because it is a high‑performance engine, correct spec and diligent change intervals are especially important.

Within the A3 line, the safest approach is to match the VW spec in the manual and then select a viscosity (e.g., 5W‑40 vs. 0W‑30) from Audi’s approved range based on climate and driving style.

2018 Audi A4 / S4 / A5 / S5

The A4 and A5 families share engines and platforms, so their oil requirements are similar. 2018 models often use the 2.0 TFSI four‑cylinder or a turbocharged V6 in the S versions.

The following list outlines typical oils for these models based on engine configuration.

• A4 / A5 2.0 TFSI – Commonly: 0W-30 or 5W-30 fully synthetic meeting VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, depending on region and whether the car is on fixed or extended service intervals.
• S4 / S5 3.0 TFSI (single‑turbo V6) – Frequently: 0W-30 or 5W-30 oil meeting VW 502 00; in some markets VW 504 00 may be specified.
• Diesel variants (A4/A5 TDI, mainly Europe) – Typically: 5W-30 low‑SAPS oil meeting VW 507 00 for DPF compatibility.

Because these engines power Audi’s core models, they are almost always specified with a VW 502 00 or 504 00–approved synthetic, and deviating from those standards risks premature wear and deposit buildup.

2018 Audi Q5 / SQ5

The Q5 and SQ5 use similar powertrains to the A4/A5 family but in a heavier SUV body, which can place additional stress on the engine under load.

The next list shows typical oils for the Q5 family, again subject to engine code and region.

• Q5 2.0 TFSI – Usually: 0W-30 or 5W-30 fully synthetic meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00.
• SQ5 3.0 TFSI – Commonly: 0W-30 or 5W-30 meeting VW 502 00; some owners prefer slightly thicker 5W-40 within spec in hotter climates, but Audi’s recommendation should be followed first.
• Q5 TDI (where sold) – Typically: 5W-30 low‑SAPS oil meeting VW 507 00 to protect the DPF and emissions components.

For Q5 and SQ5 owners, especially those who tow or drive extensively in hot conditions, staying within the approved VW spec while choosing a viscosity suited to the climate is the best way to preserve the engine.

2018 Audi A6 / A7 / A8 and Performance Models

Larger sedans and performance cars such as the S and RS models often demand the highest‑grade oils, as they combine turbocharging with higher power output and, in some cases, longer drain intervals.

The list below covers general oil recommendations observed across these higher‑end 2018 models.

• A6 / A7 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI – Commonly: 0W-30 or 5W-30 synthetic meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00, depending on the service schedule and market.
• S6 / S7 / S8 (V8 TFSI) – Typically: 5W-40 or 0W-40 fully synthetic meeting VW 502 00 for high‑temperature, high‑load protection.
• RS models (e.g., RS 5) – Usually: 0W-40 or 5W-40 fully synthetic oil that meets VW 502 00; many are factory‑filled with high‑performance synthetic to cope with track‑use temperatures.
• Diesel variants (A6/A7/A8 TDI, mainly Europe) – Often: 5W-30 low‑SAPS synthetic meeting VW 507 00 for extended intervals and emissions‑system compatibility.

High‑output engines are least forgiving of incorrect or low‑quality oil; using the precise VW spec and maintaining conservative change intervals is a prudent approach for owners of S and RS models.

Viscosity: 0W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40?

On 2018 Audis, the “right” viscosity depends on the engine, the climate, and Audi’s recommended service regime. The spec (VW 502 00, 504 00, 507 00, 508 00, etc.) is the non‑negotiable requirement, while viscosity is chosen from the approved range within that spec.

How to Interpret the Numbers

Oil viscosity ratings tell you how thick the oil is when cold and when at operating temperature, which matters for cold starts and high‑temperature protection.

The following list explains the core elements of engine oil viscosity labels as they apply to Audi’s 2018 lineup.

• 0W – Flows well in very cold temperatures, improving start‑up lubrication in winter and cold climates.
• 5W – Slightly thicker than 0W at cold start, but still suitable for most temperate climates; often used as a good all‑rounder.
• 30 (e.g., 5W-30) – Standard operating‑temperature thickness for many modern engines; balances fuel economy and protection.
• 40 (e.g., 5W-40) – Thicker at operating temperature, providing extra protection under high load or high heat at the slight expense of fuel economy.
• 0W-20 – Very low viscosity oil at both cold and operating temperatures; used in some newer engines designed for maximum fuel efficiency and requiring VW 508 00.

For a 2018 Audi, choosing among 0W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30, and 5W-40 should always be done by first checking Audi’s approved list for that engine, not by personal preference alone.

Where to Find the Correct Oil Spec for Your 2018 Audi

Because 2018 Audis span many engines and markets, the only fully authoritative source is the documentation specific to the individual car. Fortunately, Audi provides multiple ways to confirm the correct oil.

Checking Your Own Vehicle

If you own or are servicing a specific 2018 Audi, you can identify the correct oil by looking at a few key reference points on the car and in its documentation.

The list below describes the most reliable places to find the official oil recommendation for a particular vehicle.

• Owner’s Manual – Lists the exact VW oil spec (e.g., VW 502 00, 504 00, 508 00, 507 00) and acceptable viscosity grades for the engine and your climate zone.
• Service Booklet or Digital Service Record – May repeat the oil specs and note whether the car is on fixed or long‑life intervals, which affects whether 502 00 or 504 00/508 00 is required.
• Under‑hood label or oil cap – Many 2018 Audis have a sticker or markings indicating the required VW spec, such as “Use only VW 502 00 / 504 00 approved oil.”
• Dealer or Official Audi Website – Inputting your VIN into an Audi dealer system or some regional Audi websites can provide exact oil specifications for your engine code.
• Approved Oil Lists (e.g., on major brands’ websites) – Reputable brands like Castrol, Mobil, Shell, and Liqui Moly provide lookup tools that list VW‑approved oils for specific Audi models and years.

Using these reference points ensures that the oil you choose is not only the right weight but also properly certified for your engine and local regulations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced DIY owners can make missteps when choosing oil for a 2018 Audi. Avoiding these errors can prevent expensive engine or emissions‑system damage.

What Not to Do When Choosing Oil

The following list summarizes typical pitfalls seen with late‑model Audi ownership and oil changes, and why they matter.

• Ignoring the VW spec – Using a generic “full synthetic” 5W-30 that does not explicitly state VW 502 00 / 504 00 / 507 00 / 508 00 approval can void warranty coverage and may not protect against deposits and sludge.
• Mixing incompatible specs – Topping off a VW 508 00 0W-20 system with a non‑approved 5W-40 can undermine fuel economy targets and may not be compatible with the engine’s design tolerances.
• Using diesel spec oil in gasoline engines (or vice versa) – While some oils are “multi‑approval,” assuming a diesel‑only 507 00 oil is suitable for a 502 00 gasoline engine (or the reverse) is risky unless the label clearly lists both specs.
• Over‑extending oil change intervals – Even if the oil meets VW 504 00 or 508 00 and supports long‑life intervals, frequent short trips, heavy traffic, or performance driving can justify shorter change intervals than the maximum listed by Audi.
• Relying solely on generic quick‑lube recommendations – Some quick‑service chains may not stock VW‑approved oils by default; always confirm that the exact VW spec is printed on the oil they intend to use.

Avoiding these issues largely comes down to verifying the VW approval on the bottle and sticking closely to the guidance in Audi’s documentation for your specific 2018 model.

Practical Recommendations for 2018 Audi Owners

While the details differ by model, a few practical guidelines can help any 2018 Audi owner choose the right oil consistently and safely.

Step‑by‑Step Approach

The following list provides a straightforward method for narrowing down the correct oil, regardless of which 2018 Audi you drive.

1. Confirm your exact engine code and fuel type – Note whether the car is gasoline or diesel, and which engine it uses (e.g., 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI, 2.0 TDI).
2. Check the owner’s manual for VW spec and viscosity – Write down the listed VW approval (502 00, 504 00, 507 00, 508 00, etc.) and the approved viscosity range.
3. Match the VW spec first when shopping – Look for bottles that explicitly state “Approved for VW 502 00” (or your required spec) rather than “recommended for” without formal approval.
4. Select viscosity based on climate and driving – Within the approved range, choose 0W for colder climates or quicker cold‑start flow, and 40‑weight if Audi allows it and you regularly drive in very hot conditions or under heavy load.
5. Keep receipts and product details – Record which oil you used, including brand, spec, viscosity, and date/mileage; this helps with warranty claims and future maintenance planning.

Using this method ensures you satisfy Audi’s engineering requirements while tailoring the oil choice to your real‑world conditions.

Summary

A 2018 Audi generally takes fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific VW/Audi approvals—most commonly VW 502 00 or 504 00 for gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for diesels, with some newer engines requiring VW 508 00 0W‑20 oil. Within those specifications, viscosities such as 0W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30, and 5W-40 are used depending on the engine design, market, and climate. Because Audi’s 2018 lineup spans many engines, the definitive answer for any particular car is in its owner’s manual and on under‑hood labels, which should always be consulted before purchasing or adding oil.

What oil does a 2018 Audi A6 take?

The 2018 Audi A6 uses 5W-40 full synthetic oil, specifically oil that meets the Audi/Volkswagen 502 00 specification. It’s crucial to use the correct oil to ensure proper engine protection and performance. 

• Oil Type: Full synthetic 
• Viscosity: 5W-40 
• Specification: Must meet the Audi/Volkswagen 502 00 oil quality standard 
• What this means: Look for a 5W-40 full synthetic oil that explicitly states it meets the 502 00 specification for your 2018 Audi A6. 

What type of oil does a 2018 Audi take?

Notes: Full synthetic. 5W-40.

What oil is recommended for an Audi?

Audi engines require full-synthetic oil, with common types being 5W-30, 0W-40, and 5W-40, though the specific type depends on the model and climate. The correct oil must meet specific Audi/VW specifications, such as VW 502 00, VW 504 00, or LL-01, which can be found in the owner’s manual. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact specification recommended for your vehicle. 
Common Audi oil types

• 5W-30: A common choice that balances fuel efficiency and wear protection, suitable for many engines in moderate climates.
• 0W-40: Excellent for cold climates because it provides better cold-start protection.
• 5W-40: Often recommended for higher-performance models and turbocharged engines, as it offers good protection in warmer climates. 

Why full-synthetic oil is crucial

• Audi engines are designed for the superior performance of synthetic oil. 
• Conventional oil can break down too quickly, leading to poor lubrication, sludge buildup, and potential damage to the engine and turbocharger. 

How to find the right oil

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most important step, as it lists the exact viscosity and specification required for your engine. 
• Look for Audi/VW specifications: Ensure the oil you choose meets the specific Audi or Volkswagen approval number, such as VW 502 00, VW 505.00, or LL-04. 
• Consider your climate: Choose a viscosity grade that is appropriate for your local temperature conditions. 

What oil does a 2018 Audi A4 2.0 T take?

Audi A4 Oil Change Kit – 2017-18 – 2.0T – 5W40 Synthetic Ravenol.