What Kind of Oil a 2019 Audi SQ5 Takes

The 2019 Audi SQ5 requires high-quality synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 508 00 / 509 00 (often marketed as SAE 0W-20), and it is strongly recommended to use oil approved by Audi to protect the engine and maintain warranty coverage. This specification, not just the viscosity number, is the critical factor when choosing the correct oil.

Understanding the Official Oil Specification

The central requirement for the 2019 Audi SQ5 is that the engine oil meets the VW 508 00 / 509 00 specification. This is a modern, low-viscosity synthetic oil standard developed by the Volkswagen Group specifically for newer engines optimized for efficiency, performance, and emissions control.

The Exact Spec: VW 508 00 / 509 00

According to Audi technical documentation and dealer service information, the 2019 SQ5’s 3.0L turbocharged V6 (EA839 engine family) is designed for long-life, low-friction oil. The factory fill and ongoing service normally use:

The following list highlights the key characteristics of the oil required by a 2019 Audi SQ5.

• Specification: VW 508 00 / 509 00 (this is what really matters)
• Viscosity: Typically SAE 0W-20 (as labeled on most VW 508 00 oils)
• Type: Full synthetic engine oil only
• Intended use: Long-drain, high-efficiency operation in modern Audi/VW gasoline engines
• Emission system friendly: Low-ash and low-friction formulation to protect catalytic converters and meet CO₂ targets

Taken together, these points show that the 2019 SQ5 needs not just any 0W-20 oil, but a fully synthetic product explicitly approved to VW 508 00 / 509 00, which is what Audi engineered the engine around.

Why the Spec Matters More Than the Brand

Many oil brands sell 0W-20 synthetic oil, but only some carry formal VW 508 00 / 509 00 approval. Audi and VW engines rely on specific additive packages, viscosity behavior at temperature, and long-drain stability that generic 0W-20 oil may not provide.

The following list explains why meeting the official specification is more important than choosing a particular brand.

• Engine protection: The spec ensures correct film strength and wear protection for the turbocharged V6 under high load.
• Long service intervals: VW 508 00 / 509 00 oils are designed for extended drain intervals under Audi’s maintenance plans.
• Fuel economy: The low-viscosity formula supports the efficiency targets that the SQ5’s engine calibration is built around.
• Warranty compliance: Using spec-approved oil helps avoid disputes over engine damage or sludge-related issues.
• Compatibility: These oils are tested to work with Audi’s seals, gaskets, and emission-control hardware.

All of these factors underline that the correct specification is the key decision point; once that is satisfied, the choice between reputable brands becomes largely a matter of availability and preference.

Recommended Viscosity and Type

While “0W-20” is the typical viscosity you’ll see on bottles that meet VW 508 00 / 509 00, the crucial element is that the oil appears on the official Audi/VW approval list. Audi calibrates the 2019 SQ5 engine for this light viscosity and associated friction characteristics.

Viscosity: 0W-20 and What It Means

The “0W-20” rating describes how the oil behaves in cold and hot operating conditions, and it was chosen by Audi engineers for a balance of protection and efficiency in this specific engine.

The following list breaks down what the 0W-20 rating implies for a 2019 Audi SQ5.

• “0W” (winter rating): Ensures easy cold starts and quick lubrication in low temperatures, important for engine longevity.
• “20” (operating temperature rating): Indicates relatively low viscosity at running temperature, reducing internal friction.
• Improved fuel economy: Lower viscosity cuts pumping losses, helping meet efficiency and emissions targets.
• Designed for tight clearances: Modern engines like the SQ5’s V6 are built with very tight tolerances, making thinner oils practical and often required.

These characteristics explain why Audi commits to 0W-20 oils with the VW 508 00 / 509 00 spec rather than thicker, older-technology viscosities.

Full Synthetic Only

The 2019 SQ5’s turbocharged engine, high operating temperatures, and extended drain intervals demand the stability and cleanliness of full synthetic oil.

The next list outlines why full synthetic oil is mandatory rather than optional for this model year SQ5.

• Thermal stability: Resists breakdown under turbocharger heat and sustained highway speeds.
• Oxidation resistance: Stays cleaner over long intervals, limiting sludge and varnish buildup.
• Better cold-flow: Maintains low viscosity at sub-zero temperatures to protect bearings and turbo components.
• Additive performance: Blends meeting VW 508 00 / 509 00 are engineered synthetics with tailored additive packages.

Together, these advantages explain why mineral or semi-synthetic oils are not suitable substitutes for the SQ5’s requirements.

Examples of Oils That Meet VW 508 00 / 509 00

Multiple manufacturers now offer oils that carry the VW 508 00 / 509 00 approval, although availability can vary by country and retailer. It is important to confirm the approval on the label or in the official product documentation.

Commonly Available Approved Oils

The following list shows examples of oil product lines (subject to regional availability) known to offer VW 508 00 / 509 00–approved options as of late 2024.

• Castrol EDGE Professional or EDGE 0W-20 LL IV (check label for “VW 508 00 / 509 00”)
• Mobil 1 ESP x2 0W-20 (specific variant with VW 508 00 / 509 00 approval; not all ESP products qualify)
• Ravenol VSE 0W-20 (engineered for VW 508 00 / 509 00 applications)
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 6200 0W-20 (marketed specifically for VW 508 00 / 509 00 engines)
• OEM-labeled Audi/VW 0W-20 LongLife IV oil (sold at Audi/VW dealers, often in 1L and 5L containers)

These examples demonstrate that you have brand choice, but for each, you must verify that the exact product variant, not just the brand family, lists VW 508 00 / 509 00 on its specification sheet or label.

Oil Capacity and Service Considerations

In addition to using the correct oil type, owners and technicians need to know approximate fill capacity and service practices to keep the 2019 SQ5 running reliably. Always confirm exact values with the owner’s manual or official service information for your specific VIN and market.

Approximate Oil Capacity

The 2019 SQ5’s 3.0L turbo V6 holds roughly 6 to 7 quarts (about 5.7 to 6.6 liters) of oil, depending on factors like whether the filter was fully drained and the specific market variant.

The following list outlines general capacity-related points to keep in mind when changing the oil in a 2019 SQ5.

• Typical capacity: Around 6.3–6.6 liters (roughly 6.7–7.0 US quarts) including filter, depending on engine code and region.
• Check after filling: Add slightly under the expected total, run the engine briefly, then check the electronic dipstick or MMI oil level display.
• Never overfill: Overfilling can harm the catalytic converter, damage seals, or cause excessive crankcase pressure.
• New filter each time: Always replace the oil filter with an OE or high-quality equivalent during each oil change.

These capacity guidelines help ensure that you avoid both underfilling and overfilling, which are common mistakes with negative consequences for engine health.

Service Intervals and Driving Conditions

Audi often sets flexible or fixed service intervals based on regional regulations and owner preference, but the engine and its oil spec are designed around relatively long intervals under normal use.

The list below describes how driving style and environment should influence oil-change timing for a 2019 SQ5.

• Flexible/LongLife intervals: In many markets, the oil-change interval can extend up to ~10,000 miles (16,000 km) or about 1 year under normal driving.
• Severe use: Frequent short trips, idling, extreme heat or cold, or heavy towing justify more frequent oil changes (e.g., every 5,000–7,500 miles / 8,000–12,000 km).
• Warranty period: Following Audi’s recommended schedule and keeping receipts for VW 508 00 / 509 00–approved oil can be important evidence if engine issues arise.
• Dashboard reminders: Pay attention to service indicators in the instrument cluster or MMI and reset them properly after each change.

Adjusting intervals to real-world conditions—rather than just mileage—best preserves engine longevity while still leveraging the long-life capabilities of the specified oil.

What If VW 508 00 / 509 00 Oil Is Hard to Find?

Some drivers, especially in smaller markets or remote areas, may find that VW 508 00 / 509 00 oil is not always on the shelf. In those cases, Audi generally advises sourcing the correct oil rather than substituting older specifications unless explicitly directed by factory guidance.

Substitutes and Their Risks

Using an oil that meets older VW specs like 502 00 or 504 00 but not 508 00 / 509 00 is not recommended for routine service unless an Audi TSB (technical service bulletin) specifically allows it for your engine and market, which is not standard practice for the 2019 SQ5.

The following list highlights issues that can arise from using non-approved substitutes.

• Mismatch with engine calibration: Thicker or differently formulated oils may alter fuel economy and performance characteristics.
• Potential warranty conflicts: If engine damage occurs, non-spec oil can be used as a reason to deny coverage.
• Long-term wear: The engine is engineered for the friction characteristics of VW 508 00 oils, and alternate specs may affect long-term wear patterns.
• Emission impacts: Additive differences can shorten the lifespan of catalytic converters or particulate filters (where fitted).

These concerns make it worth planning ahead to obtain the correct oil—even if it means ordering online or buying from an Audi dealer—rather than relying on “close enough” substitutes.

How to Confirm You Have the Right Oil

Because labels, product names, and marketing language can be confusing, it’s essential to double-check that any oil you purchase explicitly meets the VW 508 00 / 509 00 standard and suits a 2019 Audi SQ5.

Verification Steps for Owners and Technicians

The following list provides practical steps to ensure an oil is appropriate before using it in your 2019 SQ5.

• Check the back label: Look for “VW 508 00 / 509 00” in the approvals section, not just generic “recommended for VW/Audi.”
• Consult the owner’s manual: Confirm the specified standard and any region-specific notes for your vehicle.
• Use official approval lists: Many oil manufacturers publish PDFs listing exact product codes approved for VW 508 00 / 509 00.
• Ask the dealer or reputable shop: Audi service departments can confirm whether a particular product is appropriate.
• Keep documentation: Save receipts and product details in case you need service history proof later.

Following these verification steps reduces the risk of accidental misuse of non-compliant oil and adds an extra layer of protection for a high-performance engine like the SQ5’s.

Summary

The 2019 Audi SQ5 is engineered to run on full synthetic engine oil that specifically meets the VW 508 00 / 509 00 standard, typically sold as SAE 0W-20. This requirement is more important than any particular brand name and is central to maintaining engine performance, efficiency, and warranty protection. The engine’s approximate capacity is around 6–7 quarts (about 6 liters), and service intervals can be extended under normal conditions but should be shortened for severe use. With a turbocharged, tightly engineered V6, adhering to Audi’s oil specification and using fully approved, modern synthetic oils is essential for long-term reliability.

What oil for 2019 SQ5?

Castrol EDGE Full Synthetic Engine Oil 0W-20 5 Quart
Notes: OE Recommendation, Full synthetic. 0W-20.

What kind of oil does an Audi SQ5 TFSI take?

8 LITRES CASTROL EDGE 0W20 LONGLIFE MOTOR OIL. FOR AUDI SQ5 3.0 TFSI MK2.

Can I use 5W-30 in my Audi Q5?

Yes, 5W-30 oil can be used in your Audi if it meets the VW/Audi oil quality standards specified for your engine type. Always consult your owner’s manual for the correct specifications to ensure optimal performance and protection.

What kind of oil does a 2019 Audi take?

Castrol EDGE Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-40 1 Quart.