What Kind of Oil Does the Audi A4 Use?

The Audi A4 typically uses fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific VW/Audi approvals, most commonly VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, with viscosities such as 0W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40 depending on model year, engine, and market. To protect the engine and maintain warranty coverage, owners should use oil that matches the exact VW specification printed in the owner’s manual and on the oil filler cap.

Why the Right Oil Specification Matters for the Audi A4

The Audi A4’s modern turbocharged engines operate under high temperatures and pressures, making oil choice about more than just viscosity. Audi and its parent company Volkswagen define tight standards—called VW approvals—to ensure the oil can handle long service intervals, turbocharger heat, and emissions-system sensitivity. Using oil that only “seems close enough” can accelerate wear, cause deposits, or even affect warranty claims.

Main Oil Specifications Used in the Audi A4

Audi A4 engines are designed for oils that meet specific VW standards. These approvals appear as “VW 502 00,” “VW 504 00,” etc., on oil bottles and in the manual. Understanding these codes helps owners and technicians choose suitable products.

• VW 502 00 – Long-standing high-performance gasoline-engine spec, common on many A4 models from the 2000s through mid-2010s; typically paired with 5W-30 or 5W-40 full-synthetic oil.
• VW 504 00 – Newer “long-life” spec for modern gasoline engines, low-ash and often used with extended drain intervals; typically 0W-30 or 5W-30 full-synthetic oil.
• VW 505 00 / 507 00 – Diesel-oriented specs for TDI variants (where applicable to older A4 models in certain markets), focusing on low-ash formulations to protect diesel particulate filters.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00 – Ultra-low-viscosity oils (often 0W-20) used in the latest generation of VW/Audi engines in some markets, aimed at maximizing fuel economy while still protecting the engine.
• ACEA / API ratings – Secondary industry standards (like ACEA C3, API SP), which should be present alongside VW approvals but never replace the need for the proper VW spec.

In practice, the VW approval printed on the bottle is the decisive factor: if the oil label clearly states the correct VW spec listed in the A4’s owner’s manual, it is generally suitable, even if brand or exact viscosity varies within the approved range.

Typical Oil Types by Audi A4 Generation

While exact requirements vary by engine code, market, and update years, owners can broadly group the Audi A4’s oil needs by generation to understand how demands have evolved over time. This overview offers a practical reference, but it does not replace checking the VIN-specific manual or dealer documentation.

• B5 A4 (mid‑1990s to early 2000s) – Early 1.8T and V6 engines commonly specified synthetic 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 that meets VW 502 00 (gasoline) or 505 00 (diesel, where sold).
• B6/B7 A4 (early to late 2000s) – Turbocharged 1.8T, 2.0T FSI, and 3.0/3.2 gasoline engines typically used VW 502 00 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 synthetic; diesels generally required 505 00 or 507 00.
• B8/B8.5 A4 (approx. 2009–2016) – The 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI gasoline engines often specified VW 502 00 (5W‑40/5W‑30) in North America and VW 504 00 in Europe and other long‑life service markets; diesels usually needed VW 507 00 low‑ash oil.
• B9 A4 (2017–present, including recent facelifts) – Modern 2.0 TFSI mild‑hybrid and other variants often specify VW 504 00 (commonly 0W‑30 or 5W‑30) or, in some newer European configurations, VW 508 00 0W‑20 for maximum efficiency; diesel variants use VW 507 00.
• Regional differences – North American A4 models frequently retain VW 502 00 or 504 00 specs with conventional 10,000‑mile (or 1‑year) intervals, whereas some European models employ long‑life programs tied to 504 00 / 507 00 or the newer 508 00 / 509 00 oils.

These generational patterns show a clear shift toward thinner, more efficient, and more emissions‑system‑friendly formulations, but every A4 still hinges on compliance with the exact VW approval printed in its documentation.

Recommended Viscosity Grades for the Audi A4

Viscosity—the “thickness” of the oil—must be matched to Audi’s recommendations, which take into account engine design, climate, and regulatory requirements. While viscosity and VW approval are related, approval always comes first.

• 0W‑20 – Used in some of the newest A4 engines with VW 508 00 approvals, especially in Europe; optimized for fuel economy and cold‑start protection.
• 0W‑30 – Common with VW 504 00 approvals in modern A4 gasoline engines, balancing efficiency and protection across a wide temperature range.
• 5W‑30 – A frequent choice for VW 502 00 or 504 00; widely available and suitable for most climates, common in both older and mid‑generation A4 models.
• 5W‑40 – Often specified (or allowed) for VW 502 00 in earlier turbocharged A4 engines or in hotter climates, providing a slightly thicker film at high temperature.
• Climate considerations – In cold regions, 0W‑xx oils can provide easier cranking and better cold‑start lubrication; in very hot regions, Audi may still allow 5W‑40 or similar within the approved spec.

Once the correct VW approval is identified, choosing among allowed viscosities often comes down to local climate and availability, as long as the selected oil falls within the ranges Audi explicitly permits for that engine.

Fully Synthetic vs. Other Oil Types

Audi A4 engines, especially turbocharged TFSI units, are engineered around fully synthetic oils. These formulations better resist breakdown at high temperatures and under extended drain intervals than conventional or basic semi‑synthetic blends.

• Fully synthetic – Required or strongly recommended for most A4 engines; offers superior stability, cleanliness, and protection for turbos and variable‑valve systems.
• Synthetic blend – Generally not recommended for late‑model A4s; may not meet long‑life standards or withstand sustained high‑load operation.
• Conventional mineral oil – Incompatible with modern Audi service recommendations for current and recent A4s; often fails to meet VW 502 00/504 00/508 00 approvals.
• High‑mileage variants – Fully synthetic “high‑mileage” oils can be acceptable if—and only if—they carry the correct VW approval for the specific engine.

For practical purposes, owners should treat “full synthetic with the correct VW approval” as the baseline standard for the Audi A4, regardless of engine age or mileage.

Service Intervals and Oil Change Frequency

The choice of oil interacts directly with how often it must be changed. Audi calibrates oil‑life strategies around very specific formulations, making extended intervals safe only if the recommended oils are used.

• Fixed intervals (common in North America) – Typically every 10,000 miles (about 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using VW‑approved synthetic oil.
• Flexible/long‑life intervals (common in Europe) – Can extend up to about 18,000–20,000 miles (30,000+ km) or 2 years under ideal conditions, but only when using long‑life oils like VW 504 00 / 507 00 or 508 00 / 509 00.
• Severe service adjustments – Shorter intervals are recommended for frequent short trips, heavy traffic, high‑load driving, extreme temperatures, or dusty environments.
• Warranty and resale implications – Sticking to the specified interval and oil type supports warranty coverage and can positively affect resale value by documenting proper maintenance.

Even if Audi permits long intervals, many independent specialists advise more frequent changes—especially on turbocharged gasoline A4s—to further reduce deposit formation and long‑term wear.

How to Verify the Correct Oil for Your Specific A4

Because Audi often changes oil recommendations with engine updates, software revisions, and regional regulations, the most reliable approach is to confirm requirements for your individual vehicle rather than relying solely on general guidelines.

• Owner’s manual – The primary reference, listing VW approvals, viscosities, and any regional/temperature‑based alternatives.
• Oil filler cap and under‑hood stickers – Many A4 models display the necessary VW spec directly on or near the oil cap.
• Dealer or authorized service center – Can look up requirements by VIN and inform you of any technical service bulletins or updated recommendations.
• Oil manufacturer databases – Major brands like Castrol, Mobil, Shell, Liqui Moly, and others maintain online lookup tools keyed to model year and engine type.
• Label check at purchase – Always confirm that the bottle explicitly states the relevant VW approval (e.g., “Meets VW 504 00”) rather than relying on vague phrases like “suitable for European cars.”

This verification process ensures that the oil not only fits broadly within Audi’s lineup but also aligns with the exact engineering and emissions requirements of your specific A4 engine.

Common Mistakes When Choosing Oil for an Audi A4

Even experienced car owners can misinterpret labels or assume that general synthetic oils are automatically safe for a European engine. Avoiding a few frequent missteps can prevent expensive repairs.

• Relying only on viscosity – Choosing “any 5W‑30” rather than demanding the correct VW 502 00/504 00/508 00 approval.
• Skipping synthetic – Using conventional or low‑grade synthetic blend oils in engines that require high‑temperature stability and long‑life performance.
• Ignoring updates – Not checking for revised recommendations after software or hardware updates, emissions recalls, or changes in local fuel standards.
• Mixing incompatible oils – Topping up with oil that does not share the same VW spec, potentially diluting the additives Audi relies on for protection.
• Overextending intervals – Pushing well beyond the recommended mileage or time, especially in harsh conditions or with fuel of variable quality.

By focusing on official approvals, disciplined intervals, and proper top‑off practices, Audi A4 owners can preserve engine performance and avoid premature component wear.

Summary

The Audi A4 is engineered to run on fully synthetic engine oil that meets strict VW/Audi approvals, most often VW 502 00 or 504 00 for gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for diesel variants, with newer models in some regions using VW 508 00 0W‑20. Suitable viscosities typically include 0W‑20, 0W‑30, 5W‑30, or 5W‑40, but the mandatory reference is always the VW approval listed in the owner’s manual, on the oil cap, or in dealer documentation. Selecting oil solely by viscosity or generic “European” labeling is not enough; compliance with the specific VW spec is essential for engine longevity, emissions‑system health, and warranty protection.

What oil does Audi recommend?

Audi recommends using a full synthetic oil that meets specific Volkswagen (VW) oil specification standards, such as VW 502 00 or VW 504 00/507 00, depending on the model and year. Common viscosities are 5W-30 or 5W-40, but the exact type can vary, so always consult your owner’s manual to confirm the correct oil for your specific vehicle. 
How to find the correct oil

• Check the owner’s manual: This is the most crucial step, as it will specify the correct oil viscosity (e.g., 5W-40) and the required VW specification (e.g., VW 502 00) for your engine. 
• Look for the certification: When purchasing oil, ensure the bottle has the correct Audi/VW certification listed on the label. This ensures the oil has been tested and approved to meet Audi’s stringent standards. 

Common recommended oils

• Castrol EDGE: A frequent recommendation by dealerships, often available in viscosities like 5W-40 or 5W-30. 
• Mobil 1: Specifically, Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 is a common option, and Mobil 1 0W-40 is also frequently mentioned. 
• Liqui Moly: Known for its high-performance options like Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 and Top Tec 4200 5W-30. 

Important considerations

• Full synthetic is key: Audi generally requires full synthetic oil to ensure optimal performance and longevity in its engines. 
• Viscosity matters: The “5W” in the viscosity rating indicates the oil’s thickness in cold conditions, while the “30” or “40” is the thickness at operating temperature. Using the correct viscosity is vital for proper engine protection. 
• Older vs. newer models: Older turbocharged gasoline engines often require the VW 502 00 specification, while many newer models use the VW 504 00 (for gasoline) or VW 507 00 (for diesel) specifications. 

What oil does a 2019 Audi A4 take?

The 2019 Audi A4 typically requires a full synthetic 0W-30 or 5W-40 engine oil that meets the VW 504.00 (or the older VW 502.00) Audi/VW oil specification. Always confirm the exact requirement for your specific engine, as different versions of the 2.0T engine may have different specifications, notes eEuroparts.com. 
Key details

• Oil type: Full synthetic is recommended for optimal performance. 
• Viscosity: Check your owner’s manual for the specific viscosity for your engine. Common options are 0W-30 or 5W-40. 
• Specification: The oil must meet the Audi/VW specification. For the 2.0T engine, this is likely VW 504.00 or VW 502.00. 
• Recommendation: It is highly recommended to use an oil change kit designed for your specific vehicle, as it will contain the correct oil, filter, and other necessary parts. 
• Caution: Always verify the correct oil specification in your vehicle’s owner’s manual before purchasing to ensure proper engine protection, especially if the car is still under warranty, notes this YouTube video. 

What oil does an Audi A4 need?

The correct Audi A4 oil type depends on the engine and model year, but it is typically a full synthetic oil with an Audi/VW specification like VW 502.00 or VW 504.00. For many turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, a SAE 5W-40 or SAE 5W-30 is suitable, and you should always check your owner’s manual for the specific requirements, as these can vary by year and engine.
 
Common Audi A4 oil types by engine and year

• Older 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engines (e.g., 2017 and earlier): Often require a full synthetic oil that meets the VW 502.00 specification, with SAE 5W-40 being a common viscosity. 
• Later 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engines (e.g., 2019 and later): May use a different specification like VW 504.00, often with a SAE 5W-30 or SAE 5W-40 viscosity. 
• 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engines (some models): Some models, like certain years of the engine code CYMC, may require a VW 504.00 / VW 507.00 specification. 
• 3.2L V6 engines: Typically require oil that meets the VW 502.00 specification. 
• Modern 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engines: Newer models might have an even different specification, such as VW 508.00 for the DBPA, DPAA, and DMSA engine codes. 

Key takeaways

• Always consult your owner’s manual for the most accurate information on your specific A4 model, as requirements can change between years and engine types. 
• Look for the specific Audi/VW oil quality standard, such as VW 502.00, VW 504.00, or VW 507.00, in addition to the viscosity rating (e.g., 5W-40). 
• Full synthetic oil is generally recommended for optimal performance and longevity. 

What oil does a 2018 Audi A4 use?

The 2018 Audi A4 requires a full synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification. The most common recommended viscosity is SAE 5W-40, though SAE 5W-30 is also suitable depending on your engine code. The engine capacity is approximately 5.5 quarts. 
Oil type and specifications

• Type: Full synthetic engine oil is required for all modern Audi models. 
• Specification: It must meet the VW 502 00 specification. 
• Viscosity: The most common and recommended viscosity is 5W-40. 
  • If 5W-40 is not available, 5W-30 is a suitable alternative, as long as it meets the required VW 502 00 standard. 
• Capacity: The engine requires about 5.5 quarts of oil. 
• Important Note: Some 2.0T engines may have a different specification (e.g., for B-cycle engines), so always confirm your specific engine code and requirements. 

What to buy

• Look for “full synthetic” and the “5W-40” or “5W-30” viscosity on the label. 
• Ensure the bottle clearly states that it meets the VW 502 00 specification.