What Kind of Oil an Audi A3 TDI Takes

An Audi A3 TDI typically requires a high-quality synthetic engine oil that meets specific Volkswagen/Audi standards—most importantly VW 507 00 for modern diesel models—usually in viscosity grades like 5W-30 or sometimes 0W-30, depending on model year and climate. Choosing oil that matches these exact specifications is crucial to protect the engine, diesel particulate filter (DPF), and to keep the warranty valid.

Understanding the Audi A3 TDI’s Oil Requirements

The Audi A3 TDI, like most modern Volkswagen Group diesels, is engineered around strict oil specifications rather than just generic viscosity numbers. These factory standards—labeled as “VW 507 00,” “VW 505 01,” and so on—define how the oil must behave under heat, pressure, and over long service intervals, and whether it is compatible with emissions equipment such as the DPF. To select the right oil, owners need to look at three things: the official VW oil spec required, the viscosity grade suitable for their climate, and the presence of “low-ash” or “low-SAPS” technology.

The Core Standard: VW 507 00 for Most Modern A3 TDIs

For most Audi A3 TDI models sold in North America and Europe from roughly the mid-2000s onward—especially common-rail diesel engines with a diesel particulate filter—the primary requirement is oil that meets the VW 507 00 specification. This is a long-life, low-ash synthetic oil designed for extended drain intervals and emissions-system protection.

The following list outlines the core characteristics of the VW 507 00 specification so drivers can understand why it matters and what to look for on the oil container.

• Low-ash / low-SAPS formula: Minimizes ash buildup in the DPF and helps maintain efficient emissions control.
• Long-life performance: Designed for extended service intervals as specified by Audi, often up to 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or per local schedule.
• Full synthetic base oils: Ensures stability at high temperatures and good flow in cold starts.
• Specific to VW/Audi diesels: Tested and approved for TDI engines, including those with common-rail injection.
• Backward compatibility in many cases: Often suitable for later generations of engines that previously used VW 505 01, but the owner’s manual should always be checked.

Together, these characteristics make VW 507 00 the reference standard for most recent Audi A3 TDI engines; oil containers usually display “VW 507 00” clearly on the label, and that marking should guide the final choice.

Common Viscosity Grades: 5W-30 and 0W-30

Once the VW specification is confirmed, viscosity—how thick or thin the oil is at different temperatures—is the next key decision. For the Audi A3 TDI, 5W-30 is the most common viscosity recommended by Audi and widely available with the VW 507 00 approval. In colder climates, 0W-30 oils meeting 507 00 may also be allowed by the manual for improved cold-start performance.

The next list explains what these viscosity numbers mean and how they relate to day-to-day driving in an A3 TDI.

• 5W-30: The typical “all-rounder” viscosity for A3 TDI models, balancing cold-start flow with hot-engine protection for most climates.
• 0W-30: Flows more easily at very low temperatures, ideal for colder regions while still meeting hot operating requirements if approved for your engine.
• Climate-based choice: Audi’s manual often includes an oil viscosity chart; owners in extremely cold or hot areas should follow those recommendations closely.
• Always secondary to spec: The VW 507 00 or other required VW spec is more important than the viscosity alone; the oil must satisfy both.
• Do not mix random grades: Occasional top-offs with the same spec but different viscosity are generally acceptable, but repeated mixing or drastic changes should be avoided without consulting the manual.

In practice, choosing a VW 507 00-certified 5W-30 oil will be correct for most A3 TDI owners, with 0W-30 as a possible alternative when specifically permitted for very cold climates.

Older or Special-Case A3 TDI Models

Not every Audi A3 TDI on the road is identical; some earlier or market-specific engines, particularly in Europe, may have different requirements, such as VW 505 01 or long-life standards like VW 506 01. These are often associated with unit-injector (Pumpe-Düse / PD) engines or specific markets and model years.

The following list summarizes how oil requirements can vary by model year and market, highlighting the need to check exact vehicle information.

• Pre-DPF or older PD engines: Some earlier diesels used VW 505 01 or VW 506 01 oil; these have different additive packages aimed at protecting the camshaft and injectors.
• Regional differences: European-market A3 TDIs sometimes have different recommended specs or service intervals compared with North American versions.
• VIN-specific info: Dealers can look up the exact engine code and confirm the correct oil spec for a particular car.
• Manual overrides assumptions: If the owner’s manual or a factory service bulletin lists a different spec than VW 507 00, that information takes priority.
• Avoid “almost right” oils: Oils meeting only generic ACEA or API diesel standards, but not the VW spec, should not be used as primary fill.

Because these variations exist, drivers of older or imported Audi A3 TDIs should never rely solely on general advice; the printed manual, under-hood label, or official dealer documentation remains the final authority.

How to Identify the Right Oil on the Shelf

Standing in front of a wall of oil bottles can be confusing, as many products advertise being “for European cars” without actually meeting the specific VW/Audi requirements for a TDI. Clear label reading and cross-checking are essential to avoid mistakes that could damage the engine or emissions system over time.

The following list explains how to confidently choose the correct oil for an A3 TDI in a typical parts store or online environment.

• Look for “VW 507 00” explicitly: The exact wording “VW 507 00” should be printed in the approvals section, not just “suitable for” VW diesels.
• Check viscosity next: Verify that the oil is the recommended grade (commonly 5W-30, sometimes 0W-30) as per your manual.
• Prefer well-known European formulas: Brands like Castrol, Mobil 1, Liqui Moly, Shell Helix, and others carry dedicated VW 507 00 products.
• Verify on manufacturer websites: Many oil companies provide online selectors where you can input “Audi A3 TDI” and confirm the product matches VW 507 00.
• Avoid mixing different specs: If topping up, use the same or equivalent 507 00 oil already in the engine whenever possible.

By focusing on the exact VW approval code on the label and not just marketing phrases, A3 TDI owners can avoid incompatible oils and ensure consistent protection across oil change cycles.

Oil Change Intervals and Warranty Considerations

Using the correct oil is only one side of maintenance; following the manufacturer’s recommended oil change interval is equally important. Audi typically specifies change intervals based on mileage, time, and sometimes flexible service algorithms. Skipping recommended intervals or using oil that does not meet the required VW spec can lead to sludge, wear, and potential warranty disputes.

The next list outlines key points A3 TDI owners should remember about oil change timing and documentation.

• Follow the service schedule: Typical intervals are around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or once a year, but may vary by region and model year.
• Severe use conditions: Frequent short trips, heavy towing, or extreme temperatures may warrant shorter intervals.
• Keep receipts and records: If you do your own oil changes, maintain detailed logs and receipts for oil and filters used, showing the VW 507 00 or other required approval.
• Use quality filters: Pair approved oil with OEM or high-quality filters designed for Audi/VW diesel engines.
• Under warranty: During any active powertrain or emissions warranty, deviating from oil spec or intervals can complicate claims.

Consistently using the right oil at the right intervals, with proper documentation, helps safeguard both the mechanical health of the A3 TDI and any applicable warranty coverage.

Practical Recommendations for Audi A3 TDI Owners

For most current A3 TDI drivers, finding a specific product that meets VW 507 00 in 5W-30 is straightforward and widely supported by both Audi dealers and independent suppliers. Owners who prefer to handle their own maintenance can follow a simple process to ensure they are always using appropriate oil.

The following list offers practical steps owners can take before each oil change or top-up.

• Check the owner’s manual: Confirm the exact VW oil spec (usually VW 507 00) and recommended viscosity for your model year and engine code.
• Verify label approvals: At purchase, double-check that the oil bottle lists the required VW spec, not just generic diesel or “European car” compatibility.
• Plan for your climate: If you live in a region with extreme cold, confirm whether 0W-30 507 00 oil is permitted by Audi for your car.
• Stay consistent: Use the same spec each time and avoid mixing different non-approved oils, particularly in engines with DPFs.
• Consult professionals if unsure: When there is any doubt—especially for older, imported, or modified vehicles—ask an Audi dealer or specialist workshop before choosing an oil.

By following these straightforward steps, Audi A3 TDI owners can confidently select oil that matches factory requirements, improving engine longevity and maintaining optimal performance and emissions compliance.

Summary

An Audi A3 TDI generally requires a fully synthetic, low-ash engine oil that meets Audi/Volkswagen’s official diesel specification—most commonly VW 507 00 for modern, DPF-equipped models—typically in a 5W-30 (and sometimes 0W-30) viscosity. The VW approval code on the bottle is more important than brand or generic diesel labeling. Older or market-specific A3 TDIs may call for different VW specs such as 505 01, so the owner’s manual and vehicle documentation should always be checked. Using the correct VW-approved oil, in the right viscosity and at the recommended service intervals, is essential to protect the engine, preserve the DPF, and maintain warranty and emissions compliance.

Is Audi A3 5W30 or 5w40?

Oil Viscosity Recommendations
Audi A3 engines typically require: SAE 5W-30: Ideal for a wide range of temperatures and common for most Audi engines. SAE 5W-40: Provides additional protection in warmer climates or for turbocharged engines.

What oil to run in 2.0 TDI?

VW High Performance 0w30 – OEM VW & Audi oil used at dealerships.

What kind of oil does an Audi TDI take?

7 Liters of Eurol Syntence 5W30 Fully Synthetic Oil – Carries OEM approval for VW 507 00 oil quality specification and performance characteristics required for the Audi 3.0L TDI diesel engine.

What oil does an Audi A3 TDI take?

Audi oil specifications

BRAND	PRODUCT NAME	AUDI SPECIFICATIONS
Magnatec	Magnatec 5W-40 A3/B4	502 00;505 00
Magnatec	Magnatec Stop-Start 5W-30 A3/B4	502 00;505 00
Magnatec Diesel	Magnatec Diesel 5W-40 DPF	505 00;505 01
Magnatec Professional	MAGNATEC Professional A3 10W-40	501 01;505 00