What Oil Does a 2016 Audi A6 3.0 Take?

The 2016 Audi A6 3.0 (both 3.0T gasoline and 3.0 TDI diesel where applicable) typically requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW 502 00 / 504 00 (for most gasoline 3.0T) or VW 507 00 (for many TDI diesels), with the most common viscosity being 5W-40 or 5W-30 depending on engine variant and market; owners should confirm the exact specification in the owner’s manual or by VIN with a dealer.

Understanding the 2016 Audi A6 3.0 Engine Variants

The “3.0” badge on a 2016 Audi A6 can refer to different engines depending on region: in North America, it typically denotes the 3.0T supercharged gasoline V6 (engine codes such as CREC or CGXC), while in many European and other markets it may also refer to 3.0 TDI V6 diesel variants. Oil specifications differ slightly between gasoline and diesel engines, but all require high‑quality, fully synthetic oil that complies with Volkswagen Group standards.

Gasoline 3.0T (Supercharged V6)

For the 3.0T gasoline engine, Audi and Volkswagen specify oils that meet particular internal standards designed for their turbocharged and supercharged engines. These standards are more important than the brand of oil itself, as they ensure the oil’s performance under high temperatures and loads typical of forced‑induction engines.

Diesel 3.0 TDI (Where Equipped)

In markets where the 3.0 TDI diesel A6 was sold in 2016, Audi specifies a low‑ash, long‑life oil designed to protect diesel particulate filters (DPFs). Using the correct VW diesel oil spec is crucial to avoid premature DPF clogging and ensure emissions systems perform properly.

Official Oil Specifications for the 2016 Audi A6 3.0

While viscosity (like 5W‑40 or 5W‑30) is important, Audi’s primary requirement is that the oil meets specific VW standards. These specifications appear in the owner’s manual and often on a sticker under the hood or in the service booklet.

Recommended Oil Specs for the 3.0T Gasoline Engine

For most 2016 Audi A6 3.0T gasoline models, Audi typically calls for oil meeting one of the key VW gasoline specs below, with fully synthetic formulation. In North America and many other markets, this often means a 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 oil approved under the listed standards.

The following list outlines the primary VW specs and typical viscosities for the 3.0T gasoline engine:

• VW 502 00 – Common requirement for many 3.0T engines; usually in 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 fully synthetic.
• VW 504 00 – “LongLife” spec used in some markets for extended service intervals; typically 5W‑30.
• Viscosity: Often 5W‑40 in North America; some regions and LongLife service may specify 5W‑30.
• Typical examples (only if labeled with the correct VW spec): Mobil 1, Castrol Edge, Liqui Moly, Motul, and other reputable brands, provided they explicitly state VW 502 00 or 504 00 approval.

In practice, the combination of VW 502 00 (or 504 00) approval and a 5W‑30/5W‑40 viscosity fully synthetic oil is the key requirement for protecting the 3.0T engine under normal driving conditions.

Recommended Oil Specs for the 3.0 TDI Diesel Engine

For the 3.0 TDI diesel, where offered, Audi usually specifies a low‑SAPS oil that is compatible with modern emissions systems, especially the diesel particulate filter. These oils are designed to minimize ash and contaminants that can harm the DPF.

The following list summarizes common requirements for the 3.0 TDI diesel versions of the 2016 A6:

• VW 507 00 – Primary spec for modern VW Audi diesels with DPF; low‑ash, long‑life oil.
• Viscosity: Commonly 5W‑30 fully synthetic meeting VW 507 00.
• Examples (again, only if certified for VW 507 00): Certain grades of Castrol Edge Professional, Mobil 1 ESP, Shell Helix Ultra, Liqui Moly Top Tec, etc.

Choosing an oil that clearly lists VW 507 00 on the label is more important than the brand name itself, as this ensures full compatibility with the diesel’s emissions and lubrication demands.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific Car

Because Audi used multiple engine codes and service regimes across regions, the most precise way to determine the correct oil for a particular 2016 A6 3.0 is to identify the engine type and consult official documentation. Small differences in options (like flexible vs. fixed service intervals) can affect whether VW 502 00 or 504 00/507 00 is specified.

Key Ways to Verify Your Oil Specification

There are several reliable methods owners can use to verify they are using the right oil, supplementing general guidance with vehicle‑specific details.

• Owner’s manual: Check the “Engine Oil” section for exact VW specification numbers and recommended viscosity.
• Service booklet / under‑hood sticker: Some cars have a label indicating approved specs or LongLife service requirements.
• Dealer or authorized Audi service: Provide your VIN so they can look up the exact engine code and required spec.
• Online parts catalogs: Official or reputable aftermarket sites often list oils by car and engine code, including VW approval numbers.
• Oil label check: When buying oil, confirm the bottle explicitly states VW 502 00, 504 00, or 507 00, as appropriate for your engine.

By cross‑checking these sources, owners can be confident their chosen oil meets Audi’s standards, rather than relying solely on generic claims such as “for European cars.”

Practical Recommendations for Owners

Beyond simply meeting the spec, a few practical habits can help extend engine life and maintain performance in a 2016 Audi A6 3.0, especially as these vehicles age.

Choosing and Using Oil Wisely

As the 2016 A6 ages, consistent maintenance becomes more important than ever, particularly for the supercharged 3.0T engines, which run hot and under higher stress than naturally aspirated engines.

The following practices can help owners make better oil‑related decisions:

• Stick to fully synthetic: Always use full synthetic oil that meets the correct VW spec; avoid mixing unknown oils.
• Respect or slightly shorten intervals: Even if on a LongLife schedule, many independent specialists recommend oil changes around every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) rather than the maximum interval, especially with mostly city driving.
• Use a quality filter: Pair approved oil with an OEM or premium aftermarket filter designed for the 3.0T/3.0 TDI.
• Monitor consumption: Some V6 engines may consume a bit of oil; check the dipstick or MMI oil display regularly and top up with the same VW‑approved oil.
• Mind driving conditions: Heavy towing, hot climates, or frequent short trips may justify more frequent changes.

Maintaining consistent oil quality and conservative change intervals can significantly reduce the risk of sludge, timing chain wear, and turbo/supercharger issues in these engines.

Summary

The 2016 Audi A6 3.0 requires fully synthetic oil that meets official Volkswagen Group standards, not just any generic synthetic. Most 3.0T gasoline models call for a VW 502 00 (or in some markets VW 504 00) oil in 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 viscosity, while 3.0 TDI diesels generally need VW 507 00 low‑ash 5W‑30. Owners should verify their engine type and consult the owner’s manual or a dealer using the VIN to confirm the exact spec. Using a reputable, VW‑approved oil and observing sensible change intervals is crucial to keeping the 2016 A6 3.0 running smoothly and reliably as it ages.

What oil does a 2016 Audi A6 3.0 T take?

For a 2016 Audi A6 3.0T, the recommended oil is a full synthetic 5W-40, although some sources specify 5W-30, and it must meet the specific VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 oil specification. It is crucial to use a synthetic oil that meets Audi’s and Volkswagen’s quality standards, and the capacity is about 6.8 quarts (6.4 liters). 
Key specifications

• Oil Type: Full synthetic
• Viscosity: 5W-40 or 5W-30
• Oil Specification: VW 502 00 or VW 504 00
• Capacity: Approximately 6.8 quarts (6.46.46.4 liters) with filter 

Important considerations

• Use the correct specification: Ensure the oil meets the VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 specification, as this is a requirement for the engine. 
• Full synthetic is recommended: Using a full synthetic oil is highly recommended for this engine type. 
• Check the oil level: After refilling, check the oil level to ensure it is correct. 
• Use a new drain plug seal: Remember to replace the drain plug seal when performing an oil change. 

What kind of oil do you put in an Audi A6?

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

What is the best oil for Audi A6 3.0 TDI?

• SAE viscosity grade: 5W-30.
• ACEA: ACEA C3.
• API: API SN, API CF.
• Manufacturer recommendations: BMW Longlife-04, VW 504 00, VW 507 00, MB 229.51, Porsche C30.
• Capacity [litre]: 5.
• Oil: Synthetic Oil.
• Product line: Longlife III.
• Item number: 20647.

What kind of oil does an Audi 3.0 take?

Audi A6 Quattro Premium Sedan 3.0L V6 Engine Oil – Castrol Edge Euro Car A3/B4 – 5W-40 Synthetic (5 Quart)