What Kind of Oil Goes in an Audi Q5?

The correct oil for an Audi Q5 is a fully synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 502 00, VW 504 00, or VW 508 00 (depending on model year and engine), typically in viscosity grades such as 0W‑20, 0W‑30, 5W‑30, or 5W‑40. The exact spec is listed in your owner’s manual and under the hood, and using the wrong oil can affect performance, emissions systems, and warranty coverage.

Why Oil Specification Matters for the Audi Q5

The Audi Q5, especially in its more recent generations, uses advanced turbocharged engines, start-stop systems, and emissions controls. These technologies rely on precisely formulated oils that can withstand high temperatures, protect turbo bearings, keep internals clean, and work correctly with particulate filters and catalytic converters. That is why Audi doesn’t just recommend a generic “synthetic 5W‑30,” but specific VW specifications that oil brands must meet through testing.

Main Oil Specifications for the Audi Q5

Audi (under the Volkswagen Group) defines its own oil standards—known as VW or VAG specs—that go beyond the basic API and ACEA categories. These specs ensure the oil is compatible with long service intervals, turbochargers, and modern emissions systems.

Common VW Oil Specs Used in the Audi Q5

The following list highlights the main VW specifications you’ll see for the Q5 and what they are typically used for.

• VW 508 00 / 509 00: Low-viscosity, ultra-low-ash oils (usually 0W‑20) for the latest Audi/VW gasoline and some mild-hybrid engines, especially from roughly 2018–2019 onward in many markets. Designed for fuel economy and long-life service intervals.
• VW 504 00 / 507 00: Long-life, low-SAPS synthetic oils (commonly 0W‑30 or 5W‑30) used in many Audi gasoline and diesel engines with extended service intervals and particulate filters. A frequent requirement for earlier Q5 models in Europe and some other regions.
• VW 502 00: High-performance synthetic oils (often 5W‑30 or 5W‑40) for many gasoline engines, including older and some mid-2010s Q5 models in North America and globally. Typically tied to fixed or shorter service intervals.
• VW 505 00 / 507 00 (diesel): For diesel-powered Q5 variants (mainly outside North America), these specs handle higher soot loads and protect diesel particulate filters (DPFs).

In practice, your Q5 will usually require just one of these specs, clearly printed in the owner’s manual and often on the oil fill cap or a sticker under the hood. When in doubt, matching that exact VW number is more important than matching a brand or a generic label like “European formula.”

Typical Oil Types by Model Year and Engine

Because the Audi Q5 lineup has evolved since its launch in 2008, the “right” oil can vary by year, engine, and market. Always verify in the owner’s manual or with a dealer, but the patterns below reflect current guidance as of late 2024.

First Generation Q5 (approx. 2009–2017)

This generation includes 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI, 3.2 FSI, and various diesel engines, depending on region.

The list below outlines common oil requirements for typical engines in the first-generation Q5.

• 2.0 TFSI gasoline (North America & many global markets): Frequently requires VW 502 00 synthetic oil, often in 5W‑40 or 5W‑30, depending on climate and regional recommendations.
• 3.0 TFSI gasoline: Typically also VW 502 00, again using fully synthetic 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 that explicitly states VW 502 00 approval on the label.
• 3.2 FSI gasoline (earlier years): Generally the same VW 502 00 requirement.
• Diesel engines (2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI, etc., mainly Europe/other regions): Often require VW 504 00/507 00 for long-life intervals and DPF compatibility; older fixed-interval diesels may call for VW 505 01 or similar, but by Q5 era most moved to 504/507.

Because this generation spans several years and markets, verifying the exact spec and viscosity in the manual or via VIN at an Audi dealer is particularly important, especially for diesel models and vehicles serviced outside the dealership network.

Second Generation Q5 (2018–present)

The second-generation Q5 uses newer EA888 and related engines (2.0 TFSI, some 3.0 TFSI V6s, mild hybrids, and in some markets plug-in hybrids and diesels).

The list below describes how newer oil standards are applied in the current Q5 models.

• Recent gasoline Q5 models (2.0 TFSI, 45 TFSI, 55 TFSI, many 2019–present): Often require VW 508 00/509 00 oil, typically 0W‑20. This low-viscosity oil is factory-standard for fuel economy and must not be replaced with a thicker oil unless specifically permitted by Audi.
• Some early second-gen or certain regional specs: May still call for VW 504 00/507 00 (commonly 0W‑30 or 5W‑30), particularly in Europe or in special-duty versions.
• Diesel variants (outside North America): Typically continue with VW 504 00/507 00 long-life oils for DPF protection.
• Q5 plug-in hybrids (TFSI e in Europe and some markets): Usually use the same VW 508 00/509 00 0W‑20 specification as their non-hybrid gasoline counterparts, but always confirm because hybrid-specific updates are common.

Newer Q5s are especially sensitive to correct oil because of smaller, higher-output turbo engines and tighter emissions regulations, making adherence to 508 00/509 00 or 504 00/507 00 specs essential for reliability and warranty compliance.

Viscosity Grades: 0W‑20, 5W‑30, and 5W‑40 Explained

Beyond VW specs, viscosity is the number most drivers notice first—0W‑20, 5W‑30, 5W‑40, and so on. These numbers describe how thick or thin the oil is at low and high temperatures.

How Viscosity Relates to the Audi Q5

The following list breaks down the common viscosities you’ll see recommended for the Q5 and when they tend to be used.

• 0W‑20: Common in newer Q5s with VW 508 00/509 00 spec. Flows very easily in cold weather, improves fuel economy, and is tuned to modern engine tolerances. Don’t substitute a thicker grade unless Audi explicitly allows it for your engine and climate.
• 0W‑30 / 5W‑30: Widely used with VW 504 00/507 00. Offers a balance of protection and efficiency and is stable at higher temperatures. Often the standard for European long-life service intervals.
• 5W‑40: Common with VW 502 00 in older or higher-output gasoline engines, especially in warmer climates or where fixed, shorter service intervals are used. Provides robust high-temp protection for turbochargers.

While climate used to heavily influence viscosity choice, modern Audi recommendations are tightly linked to engine design and emissions rules. Following the grade specified alongside the VW approval in your manual is the safest approach, even if local mechanics suggest thicker oil “for protection.”

Recommended Brands and What to Look For on the Label

Audi does not require a specific brand outside of dealer service, but the oil must explicitly state that it meets or is approved for the required VW specification. Many major European-formulation oils carry these approvals.

Choosing a Suitable Oil Brand

The list below outlines how to choose a brand and product that fits your Q5’s needs.

• Check for VW approval first: Look for language like “VW 508 00/509 00 approved” or “VW 504 00/507 00” on the back label or technical data sheet. If it only says “suitable for” without listing a formal approval, be cautious.
• Common brands with VW approvals (availability varies by country): Castrol EDGE (including “Professional” or “LongLife” variants), Mobil 1 ESP / Mobil 1 ESP X2, LIQUI MOLY Top Tec series, Shell Helix Ultra, TotalEnergies Quartz, Motul Specific/8100 series.
• Use “European formula” with care: Oils marketed as “European car formula” often meet ACEA and VW specs, but you still need to confirm the exact VW number on the bottle.
• Dealer vs. independent shop: Dealer-branded oil is usually a re-labeled product from a major manufacturer that already meets the proper VW spec. Independent shops should provide documentation that their chosen oil meets the same spec.

If you are uncertain in the store aisle, note your engine code and model year, then check the oil manufacturer’s website or an Audi dealer’s parts desk for confirmation before purchase.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific Q5

Because of regional variations and running changes, the most precise answer comes from the car itself and official Audi documentation.

Steps to Verify the Correct Oil

The following list explains practical steps you can take to be sure you’re using the right oil.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look under “Engine Oil” or “Fluids” for a table that lists VW specifications (e.g., VW 508 00/509 00) and approved viscosity grades. This is your primary reference.
2. Inspect the oil filler cap and under-hood labels: Some Q5s have the required spec or at least the viscosity printed right on the cap or a nearby sticker.
3. Call an Audi dealer with your VIN: The dealer can tell you exactly which oil spec your VIN requires, and whether there have been any technical service bulletins (TSBs) changing the recommendation.
4. Consult the service history: If you have previous dealer invoices, they often list the part number or spec for the oil that was used, which you can then match.
5. Use reputable online databases: Major oil brands offer “oil finder” tools that let you enter your make, model, year, and sometimes engine code to see recommended products that carry the correct VW approval.

Following these steps reduces the risk of mixing incompatible oils or using an outdated recommendation, particularly important for vehicles with extended warranties or certified pre-owned coverage.

Oil Change Intervals and Warranty Considerations

The type of oil in your Q5 is tied to its service schedule. Long-life oils like VW 508 00/509 00 and 504 00/507 00 are engineered for extended intervals, while some older engines with 502 00 may use shorter, fixed intervals.

Service Intervals and Their Implications

The list below outlines how oil choice interacts with service intervals and warranty coverage.

• Flexible/long-life intervals (often up to ~15,000–18,000 km or ~10,000–12,000 miles, and around 1–2 years): Usually associated with VW 504 00/507 00 or 508 00/509 00. Only oils with these approvals should be used if you follow the long-life schedule.
• Fixed intervals (e.g., every 10,000 km / 6,000–10,000 miles or annually): More common with VW 502 00 oils in older Q5s. While they are fully synthetic, they are not always engineered for extended flexible intervals.
• Warranty requirements: In most jurisdictions, the manufacturer cannot force you to use its own brand, but it can require that the oil meet specific technical standards. Service records should show that an approved spec was used at the correct intervals.
• Severe driving conditions: Frequent short trips, heavy traffic, extreme heat or cold, and towing can justify shorter oil change intervals, even when you use the official long-life spec.

Keeping receipts and documenting that VW-approved oil was used at reasonable intervals helps protect you if engine or turbo issues arise while the vehicle is under warranty or extended coverage.

What Happens If the Wrong Oil Is Used?

Using oil that doesn’t meet the required VW spec—or mixing incompatible oils—might not cause immediate failure, but it can accelerate wear and trigger warning lights over time, particularly in turbocharged engines and vehicles with particulate filters.

Potential Risks of Incorrect Oil

The list below summarizes the main risks associated with using the wrong oil in an Audi Q5.

• Increased engine wear: Inadequate film strength or incorrect viscosity at high temperatures can reduce protection of pistons, camshafts, and turbo bearings.
• Sludge and deposits: Oils not formulated to VW’s detergency and oxidation standards may leave varnish and sludge, clogging narrow oil passages and variable valve timing components.
• Turbocharger damage: Turbos rely on clean, stable oil at very high temperatures; wrong spec oil can coke and carbonize, restricting oil flow and shortening turbo life.
• Emissions system problems: Oils that are not low-SAPS (sulfated ash, phosphorus, sulfur) where required can poison catalytic converters and clog diesel particulate filters.
• Warranty disputes: If a major engine failure occurs and service records show repeated use of non-approved oil, Audi or an extended warranty provider may challenge coverage.

If you suspect incorrect oil was used, it is wise to perform an earlier-than-scheduled oil change with the correct VW-approved product rather than waiting for the next routine interval.

Bottom Line: Matching Oil to Your Audi Q5

For any Audi Q5, the essential rule is that the engine oil must be fully synthetic and explicitly approved for the VW specification listed in your owner’s manual—commonly VW 502 00 for older gasoline engines, VW 504 00/507 00 for many long-life engines, and VW 508 00/509 00 (usually 0W‑20) for the newest models.

Summary

An Audi Q5 requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets the exact VW/Audi specification printed in its manual and often on the oil cap. Older Q5 gasoline engines typically use VW 502 00 (often 5W‑30 or 5W‑40), many long-life and diesel engines use VW 504 00/507 00 (often 0W‑30 or 5W‑30), and most newer Q5 models from the late 2010s onward use VW 508 00/509 00 0W‑20. Choosing a major-brand oil that clearly states the correct VW approval on the label—and changing it at the intervals specified by Audi—helps ensure proper performance, protects the turbo and emissions systems, and preserves warranty coverage.

What oil should I use for an Audi Q5?

Castrol – GTX High Mileage 5W-20 Synthetic Blend Engine Oil, 5 Quart (Part No. 1597C4) Castrol® GTX® High Mileage 5W-20 is the No.

Does Audi require full synthetic oil?

Both Audi and Volkswagen require full synthetic oil for all models. Unlike conventional oil, synthetic oil is engineered to: Withstand higher temperatures without breaking down, flow more efficiently in cold weather, resist oxidation, and provide better lubrication and protection for longer intervals.

Can I use 5W-30 in 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.

Which oil do Audi recommend?

Audi engines require full-synthetic oil, with common types being 5W-30, 0W-40, and 5W-40, though the specific type depends on the model and climate. The correct oil must meet specific Audi/VW specifications, such as VW 502 00, VW 504 00, or LL-01, which can be found in the owner’s manual. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact specification recommended for your vehicle. 
Common Audi oil types

• 5W-30: A common choice that balances fuel efficiency and wear protection, suitable for many engines in moderate climates.
• 0W-40: Excellent for cold climates because it provides better cold-start protection.
• 5W-40: Often recommended for higher-performance models and turbocharged engines, as it offers good protection in warmer climates. 

Why full-synthetic oil is crucial

• Audi engines are designed for the superior performance of synthetic oil. 
• Conventional oil can break down too quickly, leading to poor lubrication, sludge buildup, and potential damage to the engine and turbocharger. 

How to find the right oil

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most important step, as it lists the exact viscosity and specification required for your engine. 
• Look for Audi/VW specifications: Ensure the oil you choose meets the specific Audi or Volkswagen approval number, such as VW 502 00, VW 505.00, or LL-04. 
• Consider your climate: Choose a viscosity grade that is appropriate for your local temperature conditions.