What Kind of Oil a 2019 Audi A7 Takes

The 2019 Audi A7 requires high‑quality, fully synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 508 00 (and compatible viscosity, most commonly SAE 0W‑20). Using the correct spec oil is critical for engine protection, warranty compliance, and long‑term reliability.

Understanding the Official Oil Specification

For the 2019 Audi A7 sold in North America and most other major markets, Audi specifies engine oil that complies with Volkswagen Group’s VW 508 00 standard. This is a low‑viscosity, long‑life, fully synthetic formulation designed to reduce emissions, improve fuel economy, and protect modern turbocharged engines under a wide range of conditions.

Key Specification: VW 508 00

The VW 508 00 spec is not just a marketing label; it reflects a series of demanding tests for wear protection, sludge control, oxidation resistance, and compatibility with emissions equipment. Oils that do not carry this approval—even if they are fully synthetic and the “right” viscosity—may not provide the same level of protection or may jeopardize warranty coverage.

The following list highlights the most important technical requirements associated with the VW 508 00 standard for the 2019 Audi A7.

• Fully synthetic base oil: Designed for extended drain intervals and high‑temperature stability.
• Low viscosity (typically 0W‑20): Reduces internal friction for better fuel economy and cold‑start performance.
• Low‑SAPs formulation: Protects gasoline particulate filters and catalytic converters by limiting ash, phosphorus, and sulfur.
• Turbocharger protection: Formulated to withstand high temperatures and shear forces common in turbocharged engines.
• Extended drain capability: Compatible with Audi’s flexible service intervals when used under normal driving conditions.

Together, these requirements ensure that VW 508 00 oils are tailored specifically to the needs of modern Audi engines like those in the 2019 A7, balancing performance, efficiency, and emissions durability.

Recommended Viscosity: SAE 0W‑20

Alongside the VW 508 00 specification, Audi typically calls for SAE 0W‑20 viscosity in the 2019 A7’s gasoline engines. This ultra‑low viscosity helps the engine turn over easily in cold weather while still providing sufficient film strength when hot.

Why 0W‑20 Is Specified

Modern engines like the 3.0‑liter turbocharged V6 in many 2019 A7 models are engineered around thin oils. Internal clearances, oil pump design, and variable‑valve‑timing systems all depend on specific flow characteristics, particularly at startup and at normal operating temperatures.

The following list breaks down the main benefits of using 0W‑20 oil in your 2019 Audi A7 as recommended by the manufacturer.

• Improved cold‑start protection: Flows quickly at low temperatures, reducing wear during the most critical startup period.
• Better fuel economy: Lower internal friction compared with thicker oils, supporting Audi’s efficiency targets.
• Optimized for engine design: Matches the clearances and oil pressure expectations built into the 2019 A7’s powertrain.
• Stable viscosity at operating temperature: Maintains a protective film under high load and highway speeds when using approved 508 00 oils.
• Compatibility with long‑life service intervals: Designed to retain its properties over the typical oil‑change interval when conditions are normal.

By adhering to the 0W‑20 recommendation in combination with the VW 508 00 standard, owners help ensure that the engine operates as Audi’s engineers intended, both in daily driving and under more demanding conditions.

Examples of Suitable Oil Brands and Products

Several major oil manufacturers produce products specifically approved for VW 508 00. When buying oil, the critical point is not the brand name but the exact approval printed on the bottle—look for “VW 508 00” in the specifications or approvals section of the label.

Commonly Available VW 508 00 Oils

The following examples illustrate some of the widely available oils (subject to region and stock) that typically carry the VW 508 00 approval and the 0W‑20 viscosity appropriate for a 2019 Audi A7.

• Castrol EDGE Professional LL IV FE 0W‑20: Frequently supplied by Audi dealers in many markets and co‑branded for VW/Audi use.
• Mobil 1 ESP X2 0W‑20 (VW 508 00/509 00 approved variant): A premium low‑SAPs synthetic oil designed for VW Group gasoline engines.
• Ravenol VMP 0W‑20 (VW 508 00/509 00): A German‑made oil targeted at VW/Audi long‑life specifications.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 6610 0W‑20: Formulated specifically to meet VW 508 00/509 00 requirements.
• OEM‑branded Audi/VW 0W‑20 LongLife IV (LL IV FE): Factory‑spec oil sold by Audi and Volkswagen dealers as the default choice.

These examples show the type of product you should seek: fully synthetic 0W‑20 oil with explicit VW 508 00 approval, whether purchased at a dealership, parts retailer, or online supplier.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific A7

While VW 508 00 0W‑20 is the general factory recommendation for 2019 Audi A7 gasoline models, it is always wise to confirm the exact requirement for your particular vehicle, engine code, and market, especially if the car was imported or has non‑standard equipment.

Checking Official Sources

Your owner’s manual and the under‑hood oil sticker are the most authoritative guides for your specific car. They reflect engine type, emission package, and regional differences that generic advice cannot fully capture.

The next list outlines the steps owners can take to verify they are using the correct oil for their exact 2019 Audi A7 configuration.

1. Consult the owner’s manual: Look under “Engine Oil” or “Specifications” for the required VW standard and viscosity, typically VW 508 00 and SAE 0W‑20.
2. Check the oil cap and engine bay sticker: Many A7s have the recommended spec (or at least the viscosity) printed near the filler cap or on a service label.
3. Use your VIN on Audi’s service portal: Some regions allow you to enter the vehicle identification number to pull up service specifications.
4. Ask an Audi dealer’s service department: Provide your VIN and request the official engine‑oil spec and current Audi‑approved products.
5. Verify the label on the oil bottle: Confirm it clearly states “VW 508 00” among its approvals, along with the 0W‑20 viscosity rating.

By following these steps, owners can be certain they are not relying on generic advice but rather matching the oil to the precise requirements of their individual vehicle.

What Happens If the Wrong Oil Is Used?

Using oil that fails to meet VW 508 00—whether because it is the wrong viscosity or simply lacks the official approval—can have consequences ranging from subtle efficiency losses to serious long‑term damage.

Risks of Non‑Approved Oils

Modern turbocharged engines, especially those with advanced emissions systems, place intense demands on engine oil. Non‑approved oils may lack the right additive package or thermal stability to cope with these conditions over extended intervals.

The following list outlines the primary risks associated with using non‑compliant oil in a 2019 Audi A7.

• Increased engine wear: Inadequate film strength or additive protection can accelerate wear in bearings, camshafts, and turbochargers.
• Sludge and deposits: Oils not designed for long‑life intervals may break down, forming sludge and varnish that impair performance.
• Emissions system damage: High‑SAPs oils can contaminate gasoline particulate filters and catalytic converters, causing costly failures.
• Reduced fuel efficiency: Thicker or incorrect‑spec oils can increase internal drag, undermining Audi’s efficiency engineering.
• Potential warranty issues: Manufacturers may question coverage for engine‑related claims if non‑approved oil was used or service intervals were exceeded.

While a single short‑term use of a non‑approved oil may not immediately fail the engine, consistent adherence to the correct VW 508 00 0W‑20 oil is the most reliable way to preserve performance and protect your investment.

Oil Change Intervals and Practical Maintenance Tips

Audi designs its LongLife service plan around the capabilities of oils that meet VW 508 00, allowing longer intervals under normal conditions. Nonetheless, driving style and climate can justify more frequent changes.

Typical Intervals and Best Practices

Exact mileage or time limits vary by market and service program, but Audi commonly recommends up to around 10,000 miles (or about 15,000 km) or one year between oil changes for vehicles using the correct LongLife oil, with shorter intervals for severe use.

The following list summarizes practical steps to manage oil changes effectively on a 2019 Audi A7.

• Follow the service indicator: Rely on the car’s onboard system as a guide but confirm intervals in the owner’s manual for your region.
• Shorten intervals for severe driving: Consider more frequent changes if you drive mostly short trips, in very hot/cold climates, or with heavy loads.
• Use the same specification consistently: Avoid mixing oils of unknown spec; stick to VW 508 00 0W‑20 for top‑offs and changes.
• Replace the oil filter at every change: Use an OEM or quality equivalent filter designed for your engine to maintain proper filtration and pressure.
• Keep records of services: Retain invoices and note the oil brand, spec, and mileage; this helps with resale value and potential warranty claims.

Attentive maintenance using the proper oil and intervals ensures that the 2019 A7’s engine, turbocharger, and emissions systems remain in top condition over high mileages.

Summary

The 2019 Audi A7 is engineered to run on fully synthetic, low‑viscosity engine oil that meets Volkswagen Group’s VW 508 00 standard, almost always in SAE 0W‑20 viscosity. Owners should select an oil that explicitly lists VW 508 00 approval on the label—such as Audi/VW LongLife IV 0W‑20 or equivalent products from major brands—and confirm the requirement through the owner’s manual, under‑hood labels, or an Audi dealer using the vehicle’s VIN. Using the correct oil protects the engine and emissions system, upholds efficiency and performance, and supports both reliability and potential warranty coverage.