What Kind of Oil an Audi S4 Takes
An Audi S4 typically requires a fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific Volkswagen/Audi standards—most commonly VW 502 00 or the newer VW 504 00—at a viscosity grade like 0W-40 or 5W-40, depending on model year, engine, and climate. Understanding these requirements is essential to protect the high-performance S4 engine, maintain warranty coverage, and ensure long-term reliability.
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Understanding Audi’s Oil Specifications
Modern Audi engines, especially performance models like the S4, are designed around strict manufacturer oil standards rather than just generic viscosity numbers. Using oil that meets these internal specifications ensures proper lubrication, reduced deposits, and compatibility with emissions systems.
VW/Audi Oil Standards to Look For
The key factor when choosing oil for an Audi S4 is whether it meets the official VW/Audi performance specification. These codes are listed in the owner’s manual and on compliant oil packaging.
- VW 502 00: The most common spec for high-performance gasoline engines in many B6, B7, B8, and some B9 S4s. Suitable for normal to spirited driving with standard service intervals (typically around 10,000 miles / 15,000 km, or as indicated by the car’s service system).
- VW 504 00: A more modern, low-ash long-life specification used on some newer Audi gasoline engines, often paired with extended oil-change intervals and emission-control friendly formulations. Some later B9 S4 models and markets may recommend or allow this spec.
- VW 505 00 / 507 00: Primarily diesel specs; generally not applicable to gasoline S4s and should not be used unless explicitly stated in the manual (which is rare for S4).
- ACEA and API ratings: Many oils will also list ACEA and API classifications (e.g., ACEA A3/B4, API SN or SP), but these are secondary; VW 502 00 or 504 00 compliance is the decisive factor.
The following list explains the most important Volkswagen/Audi oil specifications relevant to the Audi S4 and how they apply to different generations and usage conditions.
Checking for the exact VW spec code on the oil label—rather than relying only on brand or viscosity—ensures the oil is truly suited to the S4’s design and operating conditions.
Recommended Viscosity for Different S4 Generations
While Audi’s internal spec (VW 502 00 or 504 00) is the non-negotiable requirement, the viscosity (such as 0W-40 or 5W-40) is chosen based on engine design and climate. Below is a breakdown by generation and engine type.
B6/B7 Audi S4 (2003–2008, 4.2L V8)
The B6 and B7 S4 models use a naturally aspirated 4.2‑liter V8 that runs hot and is sensitive to oil quality and level. This generation is known for timing-chain and lubrication‑related concerns, making correct oil especially important.
- Specification: VW 502 00 fully synthetic oil is required.
- Typical viscosity: 5W-40 synthetic is commonly recommended in moderate climates; 0W-40 may be used in colder regions for better cold starts.
- Examples (spec may vary by market):
- 5W-40 VW 502 00 synthetic from major brands (e.g., Castrol, Mobil 1, Liqui Moly, Motul).
- 0W-40 oils that explicitly state VW 502 00 approval.
- Change interval: Many owners and independent specialists favor 5,000–7,500 mile (8,000–12,000 km) intervals, even if the factory allows longer, due to engine heat and age.
This list outlines the typical oil characteristics recommended for the B6/B7 S4’s 4.2L V8 as found in Audi literature and widely accepted maintenance practices.
For the B6/B7 S4, strict adherence to VW 502 00 and conservative oil-change intervals are widely considered essential to preserve engine health and reduce wear-related problems.
B8/B8.5 Audi S4 (2010–2016, 3.0T Supercharged V6)
The B8 and B8.5 S4 use a 3.0‑liter supercharged V6 (often called “3.0T”) that places high demands on oil due to forced induction and high specific output.
- Specification: VW 502 00 fully synthetic is the standard requirement for gasoline S4s of this era.
- Typical viscosity: 5W-40 is the most common choice; some markets also list 0W-40 where colder climates are expected, as long as VW 502 00 is met.
- Climate adjustment:
- Colder climates: 0W-40 VW 502 00 for improved cold-start lubrication.
- Warmer climates or spirited driving: 5W-40 VW 502 00 for robust high-temperature protection.
- Service interval: Official intervals can be up to 10,000 miles (15,000 km) or a year, but many enthusiasts opt for 5,000–7,500 miles to minimize carbon buildup and wear.
The following points summarize typical oil recommendations for the supercharged 3.0T engine in the B8/B8.5 S4 based on Audi guidelines and common service practice.
In the B8 generation, choosing any reputable synthetic oil that is clearly labeled VW 502 00 and in the 0W-40 or 5W-40 range will typically satisfy Audi’s requirements and protect the 3.0T engine.
B9/B9.5 Audi S4 (2017–present, 3.0T Turbocharged V6)
The B9 S4 moved to a turbocharged 3.0‑liter V6. Depending on market and exact model year, Audi may specify VW 502 00 or the newer long-life VW 504 00 standard. Because Audi’s guidance has evolved, checking the car’s specific documentation is particularly important.
- Specification:
- Many B9 S4s: VW 502 00 synthetic gasoline engine oil.
- Some markets / long-life service plans: VW 504 00 long-life low-ash oil, especially where extended intervals and stricter emissions requirements apply.
- Typical viscosity: 0W-30, 0W-40, or 5W-40 may be listed depending on region; the priority remains that the oil carries the correct VW 502 00 or 504 00 approval.
- Turbocharged considerations: Turbos run very hot; choosing oils with strong high‑temperature stability and timely oil changes is critical to prevent coking and bearing wear.
- Service interval: Up to 10,000 miles/15,000 km or two years in some European long-life programs with VW 504 00, though many owners still prefer shorter intervals.
This list explains the prevailing oil recommendations for the B9/B9.5 S4 and how they may vary with region and service program.
Because the B9 S4 sits at the intersection of older and newer Audi oil standards, the owner’s manual and service booklet for the exact model year remain the final authority on whether VW 502 00 or 504 00 is required.
How Climate and Driving Style Affect Oil Choice
Even within Audi’s approved range, your environment and driving habits influence which exact viscosity is most appropriate. Matching oil characteristics to real-world use helps maximize engine longevity.
Climate-Based Recommendations
Temperature has a direct impact on how easily oil flows at startup and how well it protects at high operating temperatures, especially in a performance car like the S4.
- Cold climates (frequent freezing or below): Favor 0W-30 or 0W-40 oils that meet VW 502 00 or 504 00. The “0W” rating improves cold-start flow, reducing wear during the first seconds after ignition.
- Moderate climates: 5W-40 VW 502 00 is a common “all-rounder” for many S4s, providing good cold-start performance along with strong high-temperature stability.
- Hot climates / track days: 5W-40 VW 502 00 (or other higher‑temperature‑resistant oils approved by Audi for motorsport use) typically offer better protection under sustained high-load, high-temperature operation.
The following points outline how to adjust your choice of oil viscosity for different climates while staying within Audi’s approved specifications.
Regardless of climate, the oil must always carry the correct VW spec code; viscosity is then fine‑tuned to local temperatures and driver preference within that approved range.
Driving Style and Service Intervals
How you use your S4—daily commuting, spirited backroad driving, or occasional track use—also guides oil choice and change frequency.
- Mostly gentle commuting: Factory-recommended oils and intervals (VW 502 00 or 504 00, with up to ~10,000 miles between changes) are generally adequate when the engine is fully warmed most drives.
- Spirited street driving: Stick with VW 502 00/504 00 but consider shortening oil-change intervals to 5,000–7,500 miles to account for higher engine loads and more frequent full‑throttle operation.
- Track days or frequent hard use: Many enthusiasts change oil before and after intensive events and choose robust 5W-40 oils with proven high‑temperature stability, still within VW spec. Consultation with a motorsport‑experienced Audi specialist is advisable.
- Short trips / lots of idling: Condensation and fuel dilution can degrade oil more quickly, so shorter intervals are wise even with approved oils.
This list describes how different driving conditions should influence your maintenance habits and, in some cases, your specific oil selection.
Adjusting oil-change frequency to match real-world usage is one of the most cost‑effective ways to protect an S4’s engine, even when using the correct specification oil.
Practical Steps to Choose the Right Oil
With multiple engine generations and specifications, selecting the right oil can seem confusing. A few simple checks make the process straightforward for any Audi S4 owner.
Where to Find the Correct Specification
The most reliable information always comes from Audi’s own documentation for your specific car. This ensures you follow the latest guidance for your model year, market, and engine code.
- Owner’s manual: Look for the “Engine Oil” or “Specifications” section; it will specify a VW code such as VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, sometimes with multiple acceptable options.
- Service booklet / maintenance plan: Especially in Europe, these documents may outline approved long-life oils and service intervals by engine code.
- Under-hood sticker or cap: Some S4 models have labels near the engine bay or oil cap that indicate the required VW oil standard.
- Dealer or official Audi website: Providing your VIN to a dealer or using online Audi resources can confirm the latest approved oil standards.
The steps below explain exactly where and how to confirm the oil specification required for your individual Audi S4.
Once you know the required VW spec from official documentation, shopping for oil becomes a matter of matching that code and choosing an appropriate viscosity grade for your climate.
Reading Oil Labels in the Store
Oil containers carry multiple certification logos and text; correctly interpreting them helps ensure you buy oil that truly meets Audi’s requirements.
- Look for “VW 502 00” or “VW 504 00” by name: It should say “Approved” or “Meets/Exceeds” followed by the VW code. “Suitable for use in” without formal approval is less reliable.
- Check viscosity: Confirm it matches one of the ranges Audi lists for your engine (e.g., 0W-40 or 5W-40). The VW spec must be correct first; viscosity comes second.
- Verify fully synthetic: Audi S4 engines require full synthetic oils; the bottle should explicitly say “Full Synthetic” or “100% Synthetic.”
- Note ACEA/API ratings: Although secondary to VW approval, ACEA A3/B4 and recent API gasoline categories (e.g., SN, SP) are commonly paired with S4‑appropriate oils.
This guidance walks through the main elements to look for on an oil bottle when buying oil for an Audi S4.
Taking a moment to read the fine print on the label helps avoid using generic or semi‑synthetic oils that do not meet Audi’s engineering requirements.
Consequences of Using the Wrong Oil
While a single short-term deviation might not immediately destroy an engine, consistently using the wrong oil in an Audi S4 can have serious long-term consequences, both mechanical and financial.
Mechanical Risks
S4 engines are relatively high-strung performance units, and incorrect oil can accelerate several common failure modes.
- Increased wear and scoring: Oils without proper high-temperature and shear stability can thin out, reducing the protective film on cylinder walls, cams, and bearings.
- Sludge and deposits: Inferior or out-of-spec oils may form sludge, varnish, and carbon deposits, clogging oil passages and stressing timing-chain tensioners and valvetrain components.
- Turbocharger and supercharger damage: Forced‑induction hardware in B8 and B9 S4s relies heavily on clean, stable oil; coked or degraded oil can damage bearings and seals.
- Emissions system issues: Oils not designed for modern emissions controls can increase particulate formation or poison catalytic converters and oxygen sensors.
The points below highlight the main types of damage or degradation that can arise from ignoring Audi’s oil specifications.
Because S4 repairs are expensive—especially for timing, valvetrain, or turbocharger failures—using the correct oil is a comparatively small investment in preserving engine health.
Warranty and Resale Implications
For newer S4s still under warranty, or those with extended service plans, oil choice also carries administrative consequences.
- Warranty coverage: If major engine damage occurs and investigation reveals repeated use of non‑approved oil, Audi or insurers may challenge coverage claims.
- Service records: Documented oil changes using the proper VW spec can enhance both warranty confidence and resale value, reassuring future buyers.
- Certified pre-owned programs: Cars maintained with correct, documented oil changes are more likely to qualify for or retain certification criteria in certain markets.
The following considerations explain why correct oil documentation can matter beyond pure mechanical reliability.
Keeping receipts and noting the exact oil spec used at each service provides both peace of mind and tangible value when it comes time to sell or make a warranty claim.
Summary
An Audi S4 requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific VW/Audi standards—most commonly VW 502 00 and, on some newer B9 models, VW 504 00—with typical viscosities of 0W-40 or 5W-40 depending on model year, engine type, and climate. The crucial step is to match the exact VW spec listed in your owner’s manual and then select a viscosity range appropriate to your local temperatures and driving style. Shorter oil-change intervals than the theoretical maximum are widely favored by specialists and enthusiasts, especially for older V8 or heavily stressed turbocharged engines. Using the correct, approved oil—backed by clear documentation—protects the S4’s performance, safeguards against costly mechanical issues, and preserves both warranty coverage and long-term resale value.
What kind of oil does a 2018 Audi S4 take?
Castrol EDGE Full Synthetic Engine Oil 0W-20 1 Quart
0W-20.
Can I use 5W-30 in my Audi?
The recommended oil type is 5w-40 synthetic. While 5w-30 can work in a pinch, it’s best to use 5w-40 if you have it available. Yes, using Mobile One is perfectly acceptable.
What kind of oil does a Audi S4 3.0 supercharged take?
Types of Oil Used in Audi S4 Models With 6 Cylinder Engines
2000-2002 Audi S4 2.7T 30V models use VW 502 00 oil spec. 2010-2016 Audi S4 3.0L 24V Supercharged models use VW 502 00 oil spec. 2018-2024 Audi S4 3.0L 24V Turbocharged models use VW 508 00 oil spec.
What oil does a 2014 Audi S4 take?
The correct oil for a 2014 Audi S4 is a full synthetic oil, and you should choose one that meets the VW 502 00 specification. Common viscosity grades are 5W-40 or 5W-30, but always check your owner’s manual to confirm the exact requirements for your engine.
Recommended oil types
- Viscosity: 5W-40 or 5W-30
- Specification: Must meet VW 502 00
- Type: Full synthetic motor oil is required for optimal engine protection
Examples of oils that meet these requirements
- Castrol EDGE Full Synthetic 5W-40
- Liqui-Moly Leichtlauf 5W-40
- Mobil 1 European Car Formula Full Synthetic 0W-40
- Valvoline European Vehicle Full Synthetic 5W-40
