What Oil a 2014 Audi S4 Takes: Exact Spec, Brands, and Maintenance Tips

A 2014 Audi S4 requires a high‑quality synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification, most commonly in 5W‑40 viscosity in North America (0W‑40 and 5W‑30 are also acceptable if they meet VW 502 00). This oil type is essential to protect the supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6 engine, maintain performance, and ensure long‑term reliability.

The Core Specification: VW 502 00

The single most important detail when choosing oil for a 2014 Audi S4 is not the brand name on the bottle, but the specification printed on the label. Audi and its parent company Volkswagen define strict standards for oil performance, and using the correct spec is critical for proper lubrication, sludge prevention, and warranty compliance.

Required Oil Spec for the 2014 Audi S4

The 2014 Audi S4 (B8.5 generation, 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6) is designed for gasoline engine oil that meets VW 502 00. Audi documentation and service literature for this model year specify this standard for fixed oil-change intervals.

The following list outlines the core spec and why it matters.

• VW 502 00 – Required for the 3.0 TFSI gasoline engine; covers high‑performance, turbo/supercharged engines.
• Fully synthetic only – Conventional or “semi‑synthetic” oils do not provide adequate protection for this engine.
• High‑temperature stability – Necessary for sustained high‑load driving, aggressive acceleration, and track use.
• Detergent and dispersant packages – Reduce sludge and deposits in the supercharged engine and valvetrain.
• Compatibility with fuel quality – Formulated for engines running premium gasoline, as recommended by Audi.

In practice, any oil you choose must list “VW 502 00” (or “VW 502.00”) approval on the label; if that spec is missing, it should be treated as unsuitable for a 2014 S4, regardless of viscosity or marketing claims.

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

While the VW 502 00 approval is non‑negotiable, Audi allows a range of viscosities depending on climate and regional recommendations. For North America, 5W‑40 VW 502 00 synthetic oil is widely used as the default choice for the 2014 S4.

Recommended Viscosities by Climate and Use

The list below explains how viscosity options apply to different climates and driving styles for this model.

• 5W‑40 (VW 502 00) – Common default choice, especially in North America; balances cold start performance with robust high‑temperature protection.
• 0W‑40 (VW 502 00) – Suitable for colder climates with frequent sub‑freezing starts; flows faster at very low temps while still protecting at operating temperature.
• 5W‑30 (VW 502 00) – Acceptable if and only if it carries VW 502 00 approval; sometimes preferred in moderate climates or where fuel economy is prioritized.
• Track or hard spirited driving – Many enthusiasts stay with 5W‑40 or 0W‑40 to maximize film strength and resistance to high‑temperature thinning.
• Do not use non‑approved viscosities – “Universal” 0W‑20 or 5W‑20 oils, or oils without VW 502 00, should be avoided even if they’re marketed as “full synthetic” or “European formula.”

Choosing between 5W‑40 and 0W‑40 largely comes down to your local climate and starting temperatures, but as long as VW 502 00 is met, both can be appropriate for a 2014 S4.

Oil Capacity and Service Interval

Knowing what oil to use is only half the story; knowing how much to add and when to change it is just as important for preserving engine health. The 2014 S4’s supercharged V6 is sensitive to oil quality, making timely changes crucial.

Oil Capacity

The oil capacity of the 2014 Audi S4 with the 3.0 TFSI engine is approximately 6.6 to 6.9 quarts (about 6.2 to 6.5 liters), including the filter. The exact amount can vary slightly depending on drain time and residual oil.

The following list summarizes practical capacity guidance.

• Approximate total capacity: ~6.6–6.9 US quarts (about 6.2–6.5 liters) with filter change.
• Filling procedure: Add slightly less than full capacity first (for example, ~6 quarts), then check the electronic dipstick (via MMI or instrument cluster) and top up slowly.
• Electronic level monitoring: Most 2014 S4s do not have a traditional dipstick; oil level is checked via the Audi MMI system or cluster after the engine reaches operating temperature and the car sits level.
• Avoid overfilling: Overfilling can cause foaming, catalytic converter issues, and increased oil consumption.
• Always replace the filter: An oil filter change should be performed at every oil service to ensure proper filtration and pressure.

Using the capacity as a guideline and then fine‑tuning based on the electronic level readout is the safest approach to avoid both overfilling and running low.

Service Intervals

Audi’s official maintenance schedules for this era often allowed extended oil change intervals, but many owners and independent specialists recommend more conservative timing, particularly as vehicles age.

The list below outlines common oil change interval practices for a 2014 S4.

1. Factory guidance: Often up to 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, under normal conditions, with approved VW 502 00 oil.
2. Enthusiast/independent recommendation: 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km), especially for older engines, hard driving, or frequent short trips.
3. Severe service conditions: More frequent changes may be warranted if you regularly tow, drive in extreme heat or cold, idle heavily, or track the car.
4. Time‑based rule: Change at least annually, even if you haven’t reached the mileage threshold, to counteract moisture buildup and oil degradation.
5. Monitor consumption: The 3.0 TFSI can consume some oil; check levels regularly between services and top up with the same spec and viscosity.

Adopting a slightly shorter interval than the factory maximum is a common strategy to prolong engine life and maintain consistent performance in a 2014 S4.

Brand Examples That Meet VW 502 00

While Audi dealers typically use their own branded oil (often re‑labeled from major suppliers), many aftermarket options meet VW 502 00. Drivers can choose based on availability, climate, and personal preference, as long as the approval is clearly stated.

Common Oils Suitable for a 2014 Audi S4

The following list provides examples of oils that commonly carry VW 502 00 approval; always verify the exact label and formulation at purchase time, as manufacturers sometimes update blends.

• Castrol EDGE 5W‑40 or 0W‑40 (European Formula) – Many variants are VW 502 00 approved; widely available and frequently used in VAG vehicles.
• Mobil 1 ESP Formula 0W‑40 or Mobil 1 FS 0W‑40 – Certain 0W‑40 products list VW 502 00 approval and are popular for performance European engines.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200, 5W‑30 (502 00/505 00 variants) – German brand specializing in VW/Audi specs; check that the exact product lists VW 502 00.
• Pennzoil Platinum Euro 5W‑40 or 0W‑40 – Selected Euro‑formula variants are approved for VW 502 00; clearly labeled on the bottle.
• Motul Specific or Motul 8100 series – Several 8100 X‑cess and other lines are VW 502 00 approved; widely used in European performance circles.

Any of these can be a suitable choice for the 2014 S4 as long as you confirm the VW 502 00 approval on the exact bottle you buy; if the spec is missing, treat that product as incompatible for this engine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistakes in oil choice or service can have outsized consequences on a high‑output, forced‑induction engine like the 3.0 TFSI. Avoiding a handful of common errors goes a long way toward keeping the engine healthy.

Frequent Pitfalls in Choosing and Maintaining Oil

The list below describes some of the most frequent oil‑related issues owners run into with the 2014 Audi S4.

• Using “any synthetic” without checking VW 502 00 – Many high‑quality synthetics still do not meet VW’s specific tests; always check for the exact approval.
• Using low‑viscosity 0W‑20 or 5W‑20 oils – These are often designed for other manufacturers and can be too thin for the S4’s needs, especially at higher temps.
• Overfilling the crankcase – Pouring in the full capacity without checking level can lead to excess oil; always approach the final amount gradually.
• Ignoring oil consumption – Waiting for a warning instead of regularly checking the electronic level can risk running the engine low on oil.
• Stretching intervals beyond 10,000 miles – Long intervals combined with short trips, high heat, or spirited driving can accelerate wear and deposits.

Being methodical about spec, viscosity, fill quantity, and intervals helps prevent the majority of lubrication‑related problems in the B8.5 S4 platform.

Summary

A 2014 Audi S4 with the 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6 requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification, with 5W‑40 being the most commonly recommended viscosity in North America and 0W‑40 or certain 5W‑30 options also acceptable if they carry the same approval. The engine holds roughly 6.6–6.9 quarts (about 6.2–6.5 liters) including the filter, and many owners favor 5,000–7,500‑mile change intervals rather than pushing to the factory maximum. Brands such as Castrol, Mobil 1, Liqui Moly, Pennzoil, and Motul all offer VW 502 00‑approved oils, but the final check is always the label: if it does not explicitly state VW 502 00, it should not go into a 2014 S4.

What kind of oil does a Audi S4 3.0 supercharged take?

For a supercharged 3.0L Audi S4, the correct oil type depends on the model year. Newer models (2018+) typically require 0W-20 full synthetic oil meeting the VW 508 00 specification. Older models (2010-2016) use 5W-40 or 5W-30 full synthetic oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification. Always confirm the exact requirement with your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a trusted source. 
Oil type by model year

• 2018+ models:
  • Viscosity: 0W-20 
  • Specification: VW 508 00 
• 2010-2016 models:
  • Viscosity: 5W-40 is a common recommendation, but 5W-30 or 0W-40 may also be acceptable depending on climate. 
  • Specification: VW 502 00 

Important considerations

• Full synthetic: Always use a full synthetic oil to meet the engine’s requirements for longevity and performance. 
• Check the manual: The most accurate information for your specific vehicle will be in the owner’s manual. 
• Audi/VW specification: Using an oil that meets the required Audi/Volkswagen (VW) specification is critical, as it ensures the oil has the correct additive package and performance characteristics. 
• Supercharger oil: The engine oil is different from the specific oil needed for the supercharger itself, which is a separate and less frequent maintenance item. 

Can I use 5W-30 in my Audi?

Yes, many Audis can use 5W-30 oil, especially if it meets the VW/Audi oil quality standards specified for your engine, which you can find in your owner’s manual. While 5W-30 is often the recommended viscosity for moderate climates, other viscosities like 0W-40 or 5W-40 may be recommended for certain conditions or high-performance models. 
When 5W-30 is a good choice 

• Moderate climates: 5W-30 is a common recommendation that provides a good balance of fuel efficiency and engine protection in moderate temperatures. 
• Specific models: It is often specified for a wide range of Audi models, including some A3, A4, and A7 models. 
• Meets specifications: As long as the oil is a full synthetic and meets the specific VW/Audi oil quality specification (e.g., VW 502 00 or VW 504 00), it can be used. 

When to consider other options

• Cold weather: For better cold-start protection, 0W-30 or 0W-40 may be a better choice, especially in colder climates. 
• Warm or high-performance engines: 5W-40 may be recommended for high-performance engines or to provide extra protection in hotter climates. 
• Vehicle-specific needs: Always check your owner’s manual for the most accurate information for your specific model year and engine, as recommendations can vary. 

Is Dot 4 for an Audi A4 2015?

Yes, DOT 4 brake fluid is used for a 2015 Audi A4, and you may need a specific type, such as DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV), especially if your car has electronic systems like ABS or ESP. Always check your owner’s manual or the vehicle’s brake fluid reservoir cap for the exact specification to ensure compatibility. 

• DOT 4 is the correct rating: Many compatible brake fluids for the 2015 Audi A4 are labeled as DOT 4. 
• Consider DOT 4 LV: Some models may require the “Low Viscosity” (LV) version of DOT 4, which is designed for modern vehicles with electronic braking systems and offers better performance in cold temperatures. 
• Confirm the specific requirement: To be certain, consult your owner’s manual or look for a label on the brake fluid reservoir cap under the hood. The cap will specify the exact type of fluid needed. 

What kind of oil does the Audi S4 take?

Castrol – Edge 5W-40 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, Maximizes Engine Performance, 5 Quart (Part No. 15B6FE)