What Kind of Oil an Audi SQ5 Takes

An Audi SQ5 typically requires a fully synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 502 00 (for most gasoline SQ5s) in viscosity grades such as 0W-40 or 5W-40, but the exact oil depends on model year, engine type, and region—so owners should always confirm via the owner’s manual or online VIN lookup.

Why the Correct Oil Matters for the Audi SQ5

The Audi SQ5 is a high-performance SUV with turbocharged engines that operate under significant thermal and mechanical stress. Using the correct oil is critical to protect the turbocharger, maintain proper lubrication at high RPMs, and preserve the engine over time. While many oils claim to be “European” or “synthetic,” only some carry the exact Audi/VW approvals required for warranty compliance and optimal performance.

Official Oil Specifications for the Audi SQ5

Audi doesn’t just recommend generic “synthetic oil.” It requires oils that meet specific VW/Audi standards, which define performance in areas such as high-temperature stability, sludge resistance, and compatibility with emission systems.

Main VW/Audi Oil Specifications for Gasoline SQ5 Models

The key for SQ5 owners is to match the oil’s approval code with Audi’s requirement for their specific model year. Below are the primary specifications you’ll encounter for gasoline-powered SQ5s sold in North America and many other markets.

• VW 502 00: The most common spec for many gasoline Audi engines, including numerous SQ5 model years. Designed for high-performance, turbocharged engines with fixed (non-flexible) service intervals.
• VW 504 00: Low-ash, long-life spec used in some markets and model years with extended service intervals and stricter emissions systems; often paired with 507 00 for diesels in Europe.
• Audi/VW LongLife specs: In some regions (especially Europe), SQ5s may use LongLife oils that allow extended change intervals when monitored by the service indicator, usually meeting 504 00 or similar standards.

Matching your oil to one of these approved specifications, rather than just the viscosity, ensures the oil has passed Audi’s testing for that engine family, which is more important than brand loyalty or marketing claims.

Typical Viscosity Grades for the Audi SQ5

Beyond the approval code, viscosity determines how the oil behaves at different temperatures. For the SQ5, Audi generally specifies multi-grade synthetic oils designed for cold starts and high-load operation.

• 0W-40: Common for modern VW 502 00–approved oils; excellent cold-start performance while remaining robust at high temperatures.
• 5W-40: Also widely specified/accepted for VW 502 00; slightly thicker on cold starts than 0W-40 but still fully suitable in most climates.
• 0W-30 / 5W-30 (VW 504 00): Used in some newer engines and markets for extended intervals and emissions compatibility, especially where LongLife servicing is enabled.

The owner’s manual will state the preferred viscosity range for your climate and engine; if multiple viscosities are allowed, choosing among them often comes down to local temperature extremes and driving style.

Differences by Model Year and Engine Type

The “right oil” for an SQ5 can differ depending on whether you own an early supercharged gasoline model, a newer turbocharged gasoline model, or a diesel variant available in certain markets. Because engines and emission systems have evolved, so have Audi’s oil requirements.

Early SQ5 (Approx. 2014–2017, 3.0 TFSI Gasoline – Supercharged, Many Markets)

First-generation SQ5 gasoline models widely sold in North America and elsewhere generally use VW 502 00–approved oils. These engines are high-output, supercharged V6 units that benefit from robust 40-weight oils.

• Spec: VW 502 00 (gasoline)
• Viscosity (typical): 0W-40 or 5W-40 fully synthetic
• Service interval: Typically around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months in North America, or as indicated by the service system

Owners of these early SQ5s should prioritize 502 00 approval over brand and ensure a 40-weight at operating temperature unless the manual explicitly lists alternatives.

Second-Generation SQ5 (Approx. 2018–Present, 3.0 TFSI Gasoline – Turbocharged)

With the switch to a turbocharged V6 and updated emissions and fuel systems, the newer SQ5 still typically relies on VW 502 00 in many markets, though some regions and model years may allow or prefer VW 504 00 long-life oils.

• Spec (North America, most trims): VW 502 00
• Spec (some European/other markets): VW 504 00 LongLife oil when flexible intervals are used
• Viscosity (common recommendations): 0W-40 or 5W-40 for 502 00; 0W-30 or 5W-30 where 504 00 is specified

Because this generation spans updates in emissions and software, verifying the exact spec via your manual or VIN-based Audi service information is important before purchasing oil in bulk.

Diesel SQ5 Variants (Primarily Europe and Select Markets)

In some regions, the SQ5 has been offered with powerful TDI (diesel) engines, which have different oil requirements driven by particulate filters and emission-control hardware.

• Spec (typical): VW 507 00 (low-SAPS diesel oil for DPF-equipped vehicles)
• Viscosity: Often 5W-30 or 0W-30 synthetic meeting 507 00
• Compatibility: Low-ash formulation to protect DPF and emissions systems

Owners of diesel SQ5s must not substitute gasoline-spec oils such as pure 502 00 products without 507 00 approval, as this can damage emission systems over time.

Examples of Oils Commonly Used in Audi SQ5s

While Audi dealerships often use factory-branded oil, many equivalent oils from major manufacturers meet the same VW approvals. The key is to confirm the approval code printed on the label.

Popular Brands and Product Lines

Several well-known oil brands produce VW 502 00, 504 00, and 507 00–approved oils that are widely available through dealerships, online retailers, and parts stores.

• Castrol EDGE / EDGE Professional: Offers multiple 0W-40 and 5W-40 formulations carrying VW 502 00 approval (and, in some variants, 504 00/507 00).
• Mobil 1: Certain versions such as Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 (European Car Formula / FS European) often carry VW 502 00 approval; check the back label for the exact spec list.
• Liqui Moly: European-focused oils with clearly marked VW 502 00, 504 00, or 507 00 approvals; often favored by independent Audi specialists.
• Shell Helix Ultra / Pennzoil Platinum Euro: “Euro” formulas commonly have VW 502 00 or 504 00/507 00 approvals; always validate the printed approval list.

Choosing from these brands is mostly a matter of availability and preference, as long as the bottle explicitly lists the correct VW approval for your SQ5.

How to Read the Oil Label Correctly

Oil containers can be crowded with marketing terms—“for European cars,” “meets the requirements of,” and similar phrasing. Audi owners should focus on official approvals rather than vague compatibility claims.

• Look for “VW 502 00,” “VW 504 00,” or “VW 507 00” in the approvals section: This is usually separate from generic performance claims like API SN or ACEA A3/B4.
• Ignore phrases like “recommended for cars requiring…” without official approval: These may indicate the oil is similar but not officially certified.
• Match viscosity: Once you confirm the approval, verify the viscosity (e.g., 0W-40) aligns with your manual or climate chart.

By reading the label beyond the front-facing marketing, SQ5 owners can confidently choose oil that truly meets Audi’s engineering requirements.

Service Intervals and Top-Up Practices

Even with the right oil specification, interval timing and top-up habits significantly influence engine longevity, especially for high-performance SUVs like the SQ5 that are often driven hard.

Recommended Oil Change Intervals

Audi’s service schedules vary by region and whether the car is set up for fixed or flexible (long-life) intervals. Nonetheless, there are practical ranges most SQ5 owners fall into.

• North America (typical): Around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using VW 502 00 oil.
• Europe/LongLife markets: Up to ~30,000 km or 2 years with VW 504 00 / 507 00 oils on flexible-service cars, as indicated by the service reminder.
• Enthusiast practice: Many owners and independent specialists prefer shorter intervals (e.g., 5,000–7,500 miles / 8,000–12,000 km) to reduce long-term wear, especially on tuned or heavily driven SQ5s.

Following at least the factory schedule is essential for warranty protection; more frequent changes can be beneficial if the vehicle sees short trips, extreme temperatures, or spirited driving.

Checking and Topping Off Oil

Turbocharged engines often consume small amounts of oil between changes. The SQ5’s electronic or physical dipstick (depending on year) should be checked periodically, especially before long trips or after track-style use.

• Use the same spec oil for top-ups: Always top off with oil that meets the same VW approval (e.g., 502 00) and preferably the same viscosity.
• Check level regularly: Every 1,000–2,000 miles (1,600–3,200 km) or monthly is a reasonable habit.
• Avoid overfilling: Too much oil can be as problematic as too little, potentially harming the catalytic converter or causing foaming.

Consistent level checks and proper top-ups help maintain the protective film the engine relies on during high-load conditions and spirited acceleration.

Where to Confirm the Exact Oil for Your Specific SQ5

Because trims, engines, and regional setups change over time, the single most reliable way to confirm your exact oil requirement is to cross-reference official Audi documentation for your specific vehicle.

Primary Sources of Truth

Several official or semi-official resources are available to SQ5 owners, each offering slightly different levels of detail on the correct oil specification.

• Owner’s manual: The first stop; lists approved oil specifications (e.g., VW 502 00) and recommended viscosities by temperature range.
• Audi dealer or service department: Can look up your SQ5 by VIN and confirm the current recommended spec, considering any service bulletins or updates.
• Official Audi website / digital service records: Some regions offer online access where you can check maintenance info using your VIN.

Consulting at least one of these sources ensures that you’re not relying on outdated assumptions or generic advice, particularly on newer or region-specific models.

Key Takeaways for Audi SQ5 Owners

Choosing oil for an Audi SQ5 is less about brand and more about matching the correct VW approval and viscosity to your specific engine and climate. This protects performance and keeps your vehicle in line with Audi’s engineering requirements.

• Most gasoline SQ5s (especially in North America) use a fully synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00, commonly in 0W-40 or 5W-40.
• Some newer or European-market SQ5s may specify VW 504 00 (and, for diesels, VW 507 00) for LongLife service intervals.
• Always confirm via your owner’s manual or VIN-based dealer lookup before purchasing oil, and do not rely solely on generic “Euro” or “synthetic” labels.

By focusing on VW/Audi approval codes, appropriate viscosity, and reasonable change intervals, SQ5 owners can ensure their high-performance SUV remains reliable and responsive for years to come.

Summary

An Audi SQ5 generally requires fully synthetic engine oil that carries the correct VW/Audi approval—most commonly VW 502 00 for gasoline models, and VW 507 00 for diesel variants—paired with a suitable viscosity such as 0W-40 or 5W-40. Because these requirements can vary by model year, engine type, and market, the definitive answer for any individual SQ5 is found in the owner’s manual or via an Audi dealer using the vehicle’s VIN. Matching the official specification and maintaining appropriate service intervals is crucial to safeguarding engine health, turbocharger longevity, and overall performance.

How much oil does a sq5 engine hold?

The Audi SQ5 engine oil capacity is approximately 7.7 quarts (7.3 liters), though the exact amount can vary slightly by model year. It is crucial to always check the oil level via the car’s electronic system after refilling to ensure it is at the correct level, as different years may have slight variations. 

• Capacity: Approximately 7.7 quarts (7.3 liters) for the 3.0L V6 engine. 
• Oil type: Use 0W-20 viscosity oil that meets the required Audi/VW oil quality standard. 
• After refilling: After adding oil, start the engine and then use the infotainment system to check the electronic oil level. 
• For reference: Some sources specify 7.2 quarts or 7.4 liters for certain model years, while others state the capacity as 7.7 quarts. 

What kind of oil does an Audi sq5 use?

Full synthetic 5W-30 motor oil that is made with natural gas and designed to maximize engine protection.

What oil does a sq5 2018 take?

5W-40-HP2 With VW 502.00 Spec.

Can you put 5W-30 in an 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.