What Oil Does a 2013 Audi Take?

A 2013 Audi typically requires full synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 502 00 (for most gasoline engines) or VW 507 00 (for many diesels), usually in viscosity grades such as 5W-30 or 5W-40. The exact oil depends on the specific engine, so owners should match both the VW spec and viscosity listed in the owner’s manual or on the under-hood label.

Why Oil Type Matters for a 2013 Audi

The 2013 Audi lineup includes a range of engines—small turbocharged four-cylinders, V6s, V8s, and diesel options—each engineered around specific oil chemistry and viscosity. Using the correct oil ensures proper lubrication, turbocharger protection, emissions system health, and long-term reliability, particularly under extended drain intervals that many Audi service schedules allow.

Core Oil Specifications for 2013 Audi Models

Audi, under the Volkswagen Group, defines its own internal oil standards (VW specs). For a 2013 Audi, matching these specifications is more important than brand choice alone.

Main VW/Audi Oil Specs for 2013 Models

The following list outlines the key oil specifications most commonly required in 2013 Audi vehicles and what they are generally used for.

• VW 502 00 – Primary spec for many 2013 Audi gasoline engines in North America, especially turbocharged TFSI units (e.g., 2.0T). Requires high-quality full synthetic oil.
• VW 505 01 – Older diesel spec used on some earlier PD (pumpe‑düse) diesels; less common for 2013 models but still appears in some references and service histories.
• VW 504 00 / 507 00 – “Longlife” low-ash (low-SAPS) spec often required for modern European gasoline and diesel engines with particulate filters. Many 2013 Audi diesels and some Euro-market gasoline engines use 507 00–approved oils.
• VW 505 00 / 506 00 / 506 01 – Legacy specs mostly relevant to older diesels; rarely a factory requirement on 2013 models but sometimes seen in multi-spec oils.

In practice, most 2013 Audi gasoline cars in North America are safe when using a full synthetic oil carrying the VW 502 00 approval, while many diesels need a VW 507 00 low-ash formula to protect emissions hardware.

Common Viscosity Grades (5W-30, 5W-40 and Others)

Beyond the VW spec, viscosity affects cold starts, fuel economy, and protection at high temperatures. Audi typically lists one or two primary viscosity grades per engine and climate range.

The list below summarizes the viscosities most frequently recommended for 2013 Audis and where they are generally used.

• 5W-40 – Very common for 2.0 TFSI and some 3.0 TFSI or 3.2 FSI engines, particularly in North America. Provides robust high‑temperature protection; widely available with VW 502 00 approval.
• 5W-30 – Often used for engines requiring VW 504 00/507 00, especially European and diesel models. Low-ash versions protect catalytic converters and diesel particulate filters (DPF).
• 0W-40 – Sometimes listed as an alternative for cold climates. Must still carry VW 502 00 (or relevant) approval.
• 0W-30 / 0W-20 (select markets only) – More common in later model years and certain efficiency-focused variants; 2013 models generally favor 5W-30 or 5W-40 but may list 0W grades for extreme cold.

Matching the viscosity listed on the oil-cap sticker, owner’s manual, or service information—while still meeting the VW spec—is the safest approach for a 2013 Audi engine.

Typical Oil Requirements by Popular 2013 Audi Models

Different 2013 Audi models and engines require different combinations of specs and viscosity. The following overview covers common U.S./Canadian-market configurations; owners in Europe or other regions should verify against their regional documentation, as specs can differ.

2013 Audi A4 and Allroad (B8/B8.5)

For the 2013 A4 and Allroad, the volume model in North America is the 2.0 TFSI four-cylinder. These turbocharged engines are sensitive to oil quality and benefit from strict adherence to VW specs.

The list below outlines typical engine and oil pairings, but verification against the owner’s manual is still essential.

• A4 2.0 TFSI (gasoline): Full synthetic meeting VW 502 00; commonly 5W-40 or approved 5W-30 depending on climate and manual guidance.
• Allroad 2.0 TFSI: Same as A4 2.0 TFSI—full synthetic with VW 502 00; typically 5W-40.
• European diesel variants (if applicable): Typically require VW 507 00 low-SAPS oil, most often in 5W-30 viscosity.

Because the 2.0 TFSI is known for issues like carbon buildup and prior generations had oil-consumption concerns, staying with a high-quality VW 502 00 oil and on-time changes is particularly important.

2013 Audi A5, S5, and RS 5

The A5 range spans from the 2.0 TFSI to performance V6 and V8 engines, each with slightly different lubrication demands.

The following list summarizes typical oil specs by 2013 A5-series variant.

• A5 2.0 TFSI: Full synthetic with VW 502 00; most often 5W-40, with some manuals allowing a 5W-30 alternative that meets the same spec.
• S5 (3.0 TFSI supercharged V6, facelift models): Full synthetic with VW 502 00; usually 5W-40, and occasionally 0W-40 for very cold climates, provided it has the correct approval.
• RS 5 (4.2 FSI V8): High-performance full synthetic oil, typically 5W-40 with VW 502 00 approval, or a manufacturer-specified alternative explicitly listed in the RS 5 documentation.

Performance models like the S5 and RS 5 operate at higher temperatures and RPM, making adherence to the VW 502 00 spec and the recommended viscosity critical for engine durability.

2013 Audi A6 and A7

The 2013 A6 and A7 typically feature the 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI gasoline engines in North America, with several diesel and other variants in Europe and elsewhere.

The list below highlights the most common engine/oil combinations for these models.

• A6 2.0 TFSI: Full synthetic VW 502 00, usually 5W-40 or a compatible 5W-30 depending on climate guidance.
• A6 3.0 TFSI (supercharged V6): Full synthetic with VW 502 00; typical viscosity is 5W-40.
• A6/A7 TDI (3.0 diesel, in markets where offered): Low-SAPS full synthetic meeting VW 507 00, most commonly 5W-30.
• A7 3.0 TFSI: Same as A6 3.0 TFSI—full synthetic, VW 502 00, usually 5W-40.

With the A6 and A7, especially in diesel form, using the proper VW 507 00 low-ash oil is vital to preserving diesel particulate filters and maintaining emissions compliance.

2013 Audi Q5 and Q7 SUVs

SUV models often see more towing, load, and temperature variation. Oil specifications reflect both engine type and operating profile.

The list that follows outlines typical 2013 Q5 and Q7 oil requirements by engine.

• Q5 2.0 TFSI: Full synthetic with VW 502 00, typically 5W-40.
• Q5 3.0 TFSI: As with sedans, full synthetic VW 502 00, usually 5W-40.
• Q5 Hybrid (where available): Usually based on the 2.0 TFSI spec—full synthetic VW 502 00 in recommended viscosity; check the hybrid-specific section of the manual.
• Q7 3.0 TFSI: Full synthetic, VW 502 00, often 5W-40.
• Q7 TDI (3.0 diesel): Low-SAPS full synthetic with VW 507 00, most commonly 5W-30.

Because SUVs often operate under higher loads and may tow, sticking to approved oils and sensible change intervals can be more important than stretching service intervals to their maximum.

2013 Audi S, RS, and Specialty Models

High-performance S and RS models place exceptional thermal stress on engine oil. These engines are generally less forgiving of off-spec products.

The list below summarizes oil expectations across common 2013 S/RS variants.

• S4 (3.0 TFSI): Full synthetic meeting VW 502 00; 5W-40 is typically specified.
• S6 / S7 (4.0 TFSI twin-turbo V8): High-quality full synthetic matching VW 502 00 or, in some regions, VW 504 00; exact viscosity (often 5W-40) must follow the performance model’s manual.
• RS 5 (4.2 FSI V8): As noted earlier, full synthetic with VW 502 00, typically 5W-40, and sometimes stricter intervals or track-use guidance.
• Other limited-run or regional S/RS variants: Usually demand the same VW 502 00 or 504 00/507 00 standard; specific viscosity and oil brand recommendations are detailed in performance supplements or regional manuals.

Owners of S and RS models should be especially wary of generic or low-cost oils that claim “meets requirements” without explicit VW approval, as these engines are more vulnerable to lubrication shortcomings and heat-related breakdown.

How to Identify the Correct Oil for Your Exact 2013 Audi

Because engine options and regional specs vary, the definitive answer for “what oil” depends on your exact engine code, market, and service schedule. Fortunately, several sources on the car itself and in documentation confirm the required oil.

Check These Sources on Your Car and in Documentation

The following list describes key places where Audi owners can reliably find the correct oil specification and viscosity for their specific 2013 model.

• Owner’s manual: The primary reference, listing VW spec numbers (e.g., VW 502 00, 507 00) and acceptable viscosities by climate.
• Oil cap and under-hood labels: Many 2013 Audis have an oil spec printed on the cap (e.g., “Use VW 502 00”) or on an under-hood sticker.
• Service booklet or dealer invoices: Past service records often note the exact oil spec and viscosity historically used.
• VIN-based dealer lookup: An Audi dealer can look up your VIN and confirm the factory-specified oil standard for your engine and market.
• Reputable manufacturer or oil-company websites: Major oil brands (Castrol, Mobil, Liqui Moly, Shell, etc.) offer online tools where you enter year, make, and model to see oils carrying the relevant VW approvals.

Cross-checking at least two of these sources—especially the manual and a trusted oil-lookup tool—helps ensure you are not relying on generic or outdated advice.

Choosing a Brand: Approvals Matter More Than Name

While Audi has historically partnered with brands like Castrol for factory-fill, numerous manufacturers produce oils that fully meet VW specs.

The list below highlights considerations when selecting an oil brand for a 2013 Audi.

• Look for explicit VW approval: The container should state “VW 502 00 approved” (or 507 00, etc.), not just “recommended for use where…”. True approval means it passed Volkswagen’s tests.
• Use full synthetic only: 2013 Audi engines, particularly turbocharged ones, are designed around full synthetic formulations.
• Stick to well-known brands: Castrol, Mobil 1, Shell (Pennzoil/Helix), Liqui Moly, Motul, and similar companies commonly offer VW-approved oils.
• Avoid mixing specs: Do not top up a VW 507 00 diesel oil with a random 502 00 gasoline oil or vice versa unless your manual explicitly allows it.
• Consider driving style and climate: Hard driving and very hot or very cold environments make it more important to adhere closely to the recommended viscosity and change intervals.

Once you have identified the correct VW spec for your car, selecting a reputable oil that clearly displays that approval on the label is the most critical step; the specific brand is generally secondary.

Oil Change Intervals and Practical Tips

Beyond the type of oil, how often it is changed has a significant impact on engine health. Many 2013 Audis came with flexible or relatively long service intervals, but real-world conditions often justify more conservative schedules.

Recommended Change Intervals for 2013 Audis

The following list outlines common guidance for oil change frequency on 2013 Audi models and factors that might warrant adjustments.

• Factory interval: Often around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, using the correct approved oil.
• Severe service conditions: Frequent short trips, heavy traffic, very hot or cold climates, or spirited driving may justify changing oil closer to 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km).
• Turbocharged engines: 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI engines benefit from more frequent changes due to higher thermal stress on the oil.
• Diesel engines with DPF: Following the manual’s guidance with VW 507 00 low-ash oil is critical; extended intervals are often safe if the correct oil is used and the vehicle sees regular highway use.
• Time limit: Even if mileage is low, oil should typically be changed at least annually to address degradation from moisture and fuel dilution.

Many independent Audi specialists and enthusiasts opt for slightly shorter intervals than the maximum recommended by the factory, particularly on older or high-mileage 2013 vehicles, as a low-cost form of preventative maintenance.

DIY vs. Dealer: What Owners Should Keep in Mind

Some Audi owners choose dealer servicing for warranty and record-keeping, while others perform oil changes themselves or use independent shops. Each approach has implications.

The list below summarizes key considerations for whichever route you take.

• Dealer service: Ensures use of approved oil and filters, maintains consistent records, and may include software updates and inspections.
• Independent specialist: Often lower cost with similar expertise; confirm that they use VW-spec oil and quality filters (e.g., OE, Mann, Mahle).
• DIY changes: Economical and controlled by the owner; requires correct oil, proper filter, correct torque on drain plug, and adherence to proper disposal of used oil.
• Documentation: Keep receipts and note mileage/date for each change, particularly if the vehicle is under warranty or you plan to sell it.
• Oil filter quality: Use filters designed for your engine and oil spec; cheap or off-brand filters can undermine the benefits of premium synthetic oil.

Regardless of where the service is done, ensuring that the oil meets the proper VW specification and is changed on a sensible schedule is far more important than the venue itself.

Summary

A 2013 Audi typically requires full synthetic engine oil with a Volkswagen Group approval—most commonly VW 502 00 for gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for many diesels—paired with a viscosity like 5W-40 or 5W-30 as stated in the owner’s manual or on the oil cap. Exact requirements vary by model, engine, and market, so owners should confirm the VW spec and viscosity from official documentation before purchasing oil. Using a reputable, fully approved oil and observing appropriate change intervals is essential to safeguarding the performance and longevity of any 2013 Audi engine.