What Oil a 2016 Audi A6 2.0 Takes: Exact Specs and Practical Advice
A 2016 Audi A6 with the 2.0 TFSI engine requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 for extended intervals), typically in viscosity 5W-40 or 5W-30, with a capacity of about 4.6–5.0 liters (4.9–5.3 quarts) depending on exact engine code and filter change.
Contents
Understanding the Official Oil Requirements
The 2016 Audi A6 2.0 TFSI (four‑cylinder turbocharged petrol/gasoline engine) is engineered to run on specific oil standards approved by Audi/Volkswagen. Using oil that meets these standards is more important than the brand name on the bottle and directly affects engine longevity, fuel economy, and warranty considerations (where applicable).
Audi/VW Oil Specifications You Must Match
The most critical requirement is the oil’s manufacturer approval, known as the VW (Volkswagen Group) specification. This is printed on the back label of quality European and global oils.
The key oil specs for a 2016 Audi A6 2.0 TFSI are:
- VW 502 00 – Standard approval for high-performance gasoline engines, suitable for normal oil change intervals (typically around 10,000 miles / 15,000 km or annually, depending on your market and service schedule).
- VW 504 00 – Long-life, low-SAPS (low-ash) spec designed for extended service intervals where supported; generally in 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosities and often used in newer Audi models and some dealer services.
- Avoid non-approved oils even if the viscosity matches, because the additive package and test standards may not meet Audi/VW engine requirements.
In practice, VW 502 00 is the specification most commonly recommended and used for a 2016 A6 2.0 TFSI in many regions, while VW 504 00 is acceptable or preferred if your owner’s manual or dealer specifies a long-life servicing regime.
Recommended Viscosity Grades
Once the VW spec is correct, viscosity is the next step, shaped by climate and driving style.
Typical viscosities for the 2016 Audi A6 2.0 TFSI include:
- 5W-40 – Commonly recommended in many markets; good protection under spirited driving and higher temperatures. Frequently used with VW 502 00-approved oils.
- 5W-30 – Often used in cooler climates or when fuel economy is prioritized; many VW 504 00 (and some 502 00) oils are 5W-30.
- 0W-30 or 0W-40 – Sometimes specified in very cold climates for easier cold starts and fast lubrication, provided the oil still meets VW 502 00 or 504 00.
Your owner’s manual and local dealer recommendations should be the final authority, but 5W-40 or 5W-30 full synthetic with VW 502 00 approval will be correct for most 2016 A6 2.0 owners in typical climates.
Oil Capacity and Change Intervals
Beyond the type of oil, knowing how much to add and how often to change it is essential for proper maintenance and to avoid overfilling or running low.
Oil Capacity for the 2016 Audi A6 2.0 TFSI
Oil capacity can vary slightly depending on the exact engine code (e.g., CYPA/CYPC-type 2.0 TFSI) and whether you replace the oil filter, which you generally should at each oil change.
Approximate capacities for a 2016 Audi A6 2.0 TFSI are:
- With oil filter change: About 4.6–5.0 liters (approximately 4.9–5.3 US quarts).
- Without oil filter change: Slightly less, but oil changes should almost always include a new filter.
- Filling method: Add most of the required volume, run the engine briefly, let it sit a few minutes, then check the dipstick or MMI level display and top up carefully.
Always confirm capacity in your specific owner’s manual or via the under-hood sticker or dealer, because small differences in engine version or production date can slightly change the exact figure.
Recommended Oil Change Intervals
Service intervals for a 2016 Audi A6 2.0 depend on region and whether the car is configured for fixed or flexible (LongLife) servicing.
Typical intervals are:
- Fixed interval (common in North America): Around every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, with VW 502 00-approved oil.
- Flexible/LongLife interval (more common in parts of Europe): Up to about 18,000–20,000 miles (30,000–32,000 km) or 2 years, only when using VW 504 00-approved LongLife oil and when the car is coded for flexible intervals.
- Severe use (short trips, lots of idling, high heat, frequent towing, or very dusty conditions): Many independent specialists recommend 5,000–7,500 mile (8,000–12,000 km) changes regardless of what the flexible system allows.
For engine longevity, many Audi specialists prefer more frequent changes than the maximum interval, particularly as turbocharged engines like the 2.0 TFSI work oils hard under heat and boost.
Approved Oil Brands and Product Examples
Multiple major brands sell oils that clearly state VW 502 00 (and sometimes VW 504 00) approval on the label. The brand is less important than the stated approval and correct viscosity.
Common Oils That Typically Meet VW 502 00/504 00
Below are well-known examples you may find in North America and Europe. Always verify the current bottle label or manufacturer data sheet before buying, as formulations can change.
Examples of suitable oils include:
- Castrol EDGE 5W-40 or 5W-30 – Many variants carry VW 502 00 (and some VW 504 00/507 00) approvals; often used by Audi dealers in various markets.
- Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 or 0W-30 – Selected versions meet VW 504 00/507 00; check that the specific product lists the correct VW approval.
- Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30, or Synthoil/Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 – Several Liqui Moly products are VW 502 00 or 504 00 approved and popular among European car specialists.
- Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV 5W-30 – Certain variants meet VW 504 00/507 00; Shell also has 5W-40 formulations with VW 502 00 approval.
- OEM-branded Audi/VW oil – Often labeled as 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40 with VW 502 00 or 504 00/507 00 approval; a safe dealership choice.
These examples are representative, not exhaustive. The crucial step is confirming “VW 502 00” (or “VW 504 00”) is printed clearly on the product you choose.
How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific Car
Because trim levels and markets differ, taking a moment to verify the exact recommendation for your specific VIN can prevent confusion and mistakes.
Checking Documentation and Vehicle Data
Every 2016 Audi A6 came with documentation and in-car references that point to the correct oil specifications.
To confirm the exact oil type, you can:
- Consult the owner’s manual: Look in the maintenance or technical data section for “Engine oil” where VW specs (502 00 / 504 00) and viscosity options are listed.
- Check the oil filler cap or engine bay stickers: Many caps or labels mention “VW 502 00” or direct you to the manual.
- Ask an Audi dealer or use the VIN: Dealers can look up the exact engine code and regional recommendation using your VIN for absolute clarity.
- Use trusted online catalogs: Large oil manufacturers’ websites let you enter vehicle details to get an oil suggestion that matches VW approvals.
This extra verification is valuable if your A6 was imported from another region, has a non-standard service history, or you see conflicting information online.
Practical Tips for Owners Doing Their Own Oil Changes
Many Audi owners change their own oil to save money and ensure quality control. Getting the details right helps avoid costly engine or emissions system issues.
Steps and Precautions
Beyond choosing the correct oil, good practices during the oil change will protect the engine and keep the car’s systems happy.
Key practical tips include:
- Always replace the oil filter with an OEM or high-quality equivalent at every change; cheap filters can cause flow and pressure issues.
- Use a new drain plug washer (or a new plug if designed as single-use) to prevent leaks.
- Avoid overfilling: Add oil in stages, then check level after running the engine briefly; too much oil can cause foaming, leaks, or catalyst damage.
- Reset the service indicator via the MMI or diagnostic tool so future reminders are accurate.
- Keep receipts and labels: Documenting the exact oil spec and mileage is helpful for resale value and any future warranty or goodwill repairs.
Careful adherence to these steps, combined with the correct VW-approved oil, will help the 2.0 TFSI engine remain reliable and efficient over high mileages.
Summary
The 2016 Audi A6 2.0 TFSI is designed to use fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 for long-life intervals), most commonly in 5W-40 or 5W-30 viscosity. Oil capacity with a filter change is roughly 4.6–5.0 liters (4.9–5.3 quarts), and change intervals typically range from about 10,000 miles / 12 months under fixed schedules to longer intervals under approved long-life regimes. Verifying the VW approval on the bottle and cross-checking with your owner’s manual or dealer is more important than choosing any particular brand, and following these guidelines will help keep your A6’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine running smoothly for years.
What kind of oil does a 2016 Audi 2.0 T take?
5 Liters of Eurol Syndura 5W40 Fully Synthetic Oil – Meets or exceeds the recommended VW 502 00 oil quality specification and performance characteristics required for the Audi 2.0T gasoline engine.
What oil does a 2016 Audi A6 2.0 T take?
The 2016 Audi A6 2.0T requires a full synthetic engine oil, with the most common recommendations being 5W-40 or 5W-30, that meets the VW 502 00 or other applicable Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standards. Always consult your owner’s manual to confirm the exact specification for your vehicle and climate conditions.
- Viscosity: Use a 5W-40 or 5W-30 full synthetic oil. Some sources suggest 5W-40 for higher performance or extreme conditions, while 5W-30 is also a common recommendation.
- Standard: The oil must meet Audi’s specifications, such as the VW 502 00 standard. Other appropriate standards may be listed in your owner’s manual, such as those for the 2.0L engine.
- Type: It is essential to use a full synthetic oil.
- Note: Always check your owner’s manual for the precise oil specification recommended for your vehicle and the climate it operates in.
What oil should I put in my Audi A6?
The required Audi A6 oil type varies by model year, but it’s often a full synthetic oil with specific viscosity grades like 0W-20, 5W-30, or 5W-40. Always check your owner’s manual for the specific viscosity grade and the required oil quality specification, such as VW 508.00, VW 504.00, or VW 502.00.
By model year and engine
- 2019-2023 models (3.0L Turbocharged): Full synthetic 0W-20 is often required, meeting the VW 508.00 & 509.00 standard.
- 2017-2018 models (3.0L Supercharged): May require a full synthetic 5W-40 that meets VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 standards.
- 2010-2016 models (3.0L Supercharged): Full synthetic 5W-40 is a common requirement, meeting the VW 502 00 standard.
- Older models (2002-2004, 3.0L 30V): Typically use a full synthetic 5W-40 that meets the VW 502 00 oil specification.
General recommendations
- Always confirm with your owner’s manual: The most accurate information will be in your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle.
- Choose a full synthetic oil: For many Audi A6 models, a high-quality full synthetic oil is recommended or required for optimal engine protection.
- Consider climate: If the specified oil isn’t available, choose a viscosity grade suitable for your local climate and operating conditions.
- Look for the oil quality specification: The VW quality standard (like 508.00, 504.00, or 502.00) is crucial, not just the viscosity grade.
Can I use 5W-30 in my Audi?
The recommended oil type is 5w-40 synthetic. While 5w-30 can work in a pinch, it’s best to use 5w-40 if you have it available. Yes, using Mobile One is perfectly acceptable.


