What Oil a 2016 Audi A6 Takes: Specifications, Types, and Expert Guidance

A 2016 Audi A6 typically requires a full-synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 502 00 (for most gasoline engines) or VW 507 00 (for many diesel and some later-production engines), most commonly in viscosity grades like 5W-40 or 5W-30, depending on the exact engine code and market. Understanding the correct oil is crucial to protect the engine, maintain warranty compliance, and ensure long-term reliability.

Why Oil Specification Matters for the 2016 Audi A6

The 2016 Audi A6 was offered with several engine options worldwide, including turbocharged four‑cylinder and six‑cylinder gasoline engines, as well as TDI diesel variants. Each engine has specific lubrication needs defined not just by viscosity (e.g., 5W‑40) but by strict Audi/VW approval standards. Using oil that merely “fits” the viscosity but does not carry the proper VW approval can lead to increased wear, performance loss, and potential warranty or goodwill claim issues.

Official Audi/VW Oil Specifications for the 2016 A6

To understand exactly which oil your A6 needs, it’s important to distinguish between gasoline and diesel engines, and between different VW spec numbers that Audi uses to define oil performance requirements.

Main Audi/VW Approvals You’re Likely to See

The following list outlines the most relevant VW oil specifications commonly associated with the 2016 Audi A6, and what type of use or engine they are typically linked to.

• VW 502 00 – The standard high-performance gasoline engine oil spec for many Audi/VW engines. Commonly used for 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI engines when not configured for long extended-drain intervals.
• VW 504 00 – A long-life gasoline engine spec, often used in newer models with extended service intervals and low-SAPS requirements in some markets.
• VW 505 01 – Primarily for older or specific diesel engines with certain injector/pump designs (less common as a primary spec on a 2016 A6, but may appear in documentation).
• VW 507 00 – The prevalent long-life low-ash “universal” spec for many modern Audi/VW diesel engines with diesel particulate filters (DPF). In some regions and later production, VW 507 00 oil may be recommended across multiple engine families.

These specification codes, printed directly on oil containers or product datasheets, are more important than the brand name alone. When in doubt, you should match the VW code in your owner’s manual or service booklet rather than relying solely on viscosity or marketing terms.

Typical Oil Requirements by Engine Type

Because exact requirements can vary by region (U.S., Europe, etc.), engine code, and whether the car follows fixed or flexible (long-life) service intervals, you should always verify via your owner’s manual, service booklet, or dealership. That said, the following breakdown reflects the most common recommendations for 2016 Audi A6 engines.

Gasoline Engines (TFSI)

Gasoline-powered 2016 Audi A6 models—such as those with the 2.0 TFSI or 3.0 TFSI engines—generally require a full-synthetic oil that meets VW 502 00, and in some markets VW 504 00, with recommended viscosities tailored to local climate.

The key characteristics for gasoline engine oil in the 2016 A6 include:

• Specification: Primarily VW 502 00; in some markets or specific service regimes, VW 504 00.
• Viscosity range: Commonly 5W‑40 or 5W‑30; 0W‑40 may be specified in colder climates.
• Base type: Full synthetic (often labeled as “full synthetic” or “100% synthetic”).
• Examples of product lines (varies by country):
  

  • Castrol EDGE 5W‑40 (VW 502 00)
  • Mobil 1 ESP 5W‑30 (if VW 504 00 / 507 00 approved for applicable variants)
  • Liqui Moly Top Tec or Special Tec series with explicit VW 502 00 approval

Though many synthetic oils may list “meets or exceeds” language, for an Audi the container should explicitly show “VW 502 00” (or 504 00 where specified) as a formal approval, not just a generic performance claim.

Diesel Engines (TDI)

The diesel (TDI) variants of the 2016 A6, especially those equipped with a diesel particulate filter (DPF), require low-ash oil to prevent DPF blockage and maintain emissions system health.

Key aspects of diesel engine oil requirements for a 2016 A6 typically include:

• Specification: VW 507 00 is usually the primary requirement.
• Viscosity: Often 5W‑30 for VW 507 00 oils, with some markets allowing 0W‑30/0W‑40 options provided they have 507 00 approval.
• Low-SAPS formulation: Formulated to be compatible with DPFs and modern emissions systems.
• Product examples (depending on market):
  

  • Castrol EDGE Professional LongLife III 5W‑30 (VW 504 00 / 507 00)
  • Mobil 1 ESP 5W‑30 (VW 504 00 / 507 00)
  • Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV-L 5W‑30 (VW 504 00 / 507 00)

Using a non-507 00 oil in a DPF-equipped TDI can accelerate DPF ash loading, increase regeneration frequency, and potentially damage costly emissions components over time.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific A6

Because trim levels, engine codes, and service schedule options vary widely, the most reliable way to verify the correct oil is to cross-check your vehicle’s official documentation and identification numbers.

Steps Owners Should Take to Verify Oil Requirements

The following steps will help you confirm exactly which oil your particular 2016 Audi A6 requires, beyond the general guidelines.

1. Check the owner’s manual and service booklet: Look for the “Engine Oil” or “Lubricants” section, which will specify the VW approval (e.g., VW 502 00, 504 00, 507 00) and often list acceptable viscosity grades.
2. Identify your engine code: The code (e.g., “CPMB,” “CREC,” or similar) may appear on the data sticker in the trunk, in the service book, or retrievable by VIN at a dealer. This code ties directly to official Audi service data on oil requirements.
3. Determine your service regime: Some markets offer “fixed” intervals (e.g., annual or 10,000 mi / 15,000 km) versus “flexible/long-life” intervals. Long-life regimes frequently require 504 00 / 507 00 oils, while fixed may specify 502 00 for gasoline engines.
4. Match the specification on the oil container: Once you know the VW spec your engine requires, select an oil that has that spec clearly printed as an approval (not just “recommended for use where VW 502 00 is required”).
5. Consult a dealer or trusted specialist if unsure: A franchised Audi dealer can look up your VIN and confirm the officially approved oils and recommended intervals for your exact vehicle configuration.

Taking these steps eliminates guesswork and ensures that any oil you buy is genuinely appropriate for your A6, rather than simply close in viscosity or generically “European car” labeled.

Recommended Viscosity Grades and Climate Considerations

While VW approval codes are the first priority, viscosity still matters, particularly in regions with extreme temperatures. Audi provides viscosity charts in owners’ manuals that show acceptable grades for various temperature ranges.

Common Viscosity Grades for the 2016 Audi A6

The following viscosity grades are among those most commonly recommended for the 2016 A6, though the exact choice should align with your manual and climate.

• 5W‑40: Widely used for VW 502 00 gasoline applications; offers robust high-temperature protection and broad ambient temperature coverage.
• 5W‑30: Standard for many VW 504 00 / 507 00 oils, including both gasoline (where applicable) and diesel engines with DPF.
• 0W‑40 or 0W‑30: Sometimes specified or allowed in very cold climates; must still carry the correct VW spec code.

Within the range of viscosity options Audi permits, choosing a slightly higher hot-weight (e.g., 5W‑40 vs. 5W‑30) can offer extra margin under heavy load or high temperature, but this choice should never contravene the manufacturer’s official guidance.

Oil Change Interval Guidance

Proper oil is only part of the equation; adhering to correct change intervals is equally vital for engine health in a 2016 Audi A6, which often operates under turbocharged, high-stress conditions.

Typical Service Intervals and When to Shorten Them

The following general interval ranges are commonly seen on 2016 Audi A6 models; actual recommendations can differ by market and local regulations.

• Standard/fixed intervals (commonly in North America): Around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, using the specified oil (often VW 502 00 for gasoline).
• Long-life/flexible intervals (more common in Europe): Up to approximately 18,000–20,000 miles (30,000–32,000 km) or 2 years, but only with officially approved long-life oils (VW 504 00 / 507 00).
• Shortened intervals for severe service: In heavy city driving, frequent short trips, hot climates, or spirited use, many specialists recommend shorter intervals (e.g., 7,500 miles / 12,000 km or even 5,000 miles / 8,000 km) despite official maximums.

Adopting more conservative change intervals—especially on turbocharged engines—can significantly reduce sludge formation, turbo wear, and timing chain or tensioner issues over the vehicle’s life.

Practical Buying Tips for Engine Oil

With the right spec and viscosity in mind, your final step is choosing a reputable product and avoiding problematic or counterfeit oils, which have become a rising concern in some regions.

How to Select and Purchase Oil Safely

The following guidelines can help A6 owners choose and buy engine oil that genuinely meets Audi’s standards.

• Shop from trusted sources: Buy from major auto parts chains, authorized dealers, or reputable online retailers, avoiding suspiciously low-priced bulk offers.
• Look for explicit VW approval on the label: The container should say something like “Approved: VW 502 00 / 505 00” or “VW 504 00 / 507 00” rather than only “meets requirements of.”
• Check batch numbers and seals: Ensure caps and safety seals are intact, and packaging looks consistent with the manufacturer’s official design.
• Keep receipts and records: Document brand, grade, VW spec, and mileage/date of each oil change—helpful for resale value and potential warranty discussions.

These precautions help guarantee that your engine receives oil of the quality Audi’s engineering demands, rather than an inferior or counterfeit product that could cause long-term damage.

Summary

A 2016 Audi A6 generally requires a full-synthetic engine oil approved to the correct Audi/VW specification—most commonly VW 502 00 for gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for diesel engines with DPF, with viscosities such as 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 depending on engine and climate. The specific VW spec listed in your owner’s manual and service documentation should always guide your choice, not just viscosity or brand preference.

By confirming your engine code, adhering to the appropriate VW oil approval, selecting a suitable viscosity for your climate, and following sensible oil change intervals, you can protect your A6’s engine, maintain performance and efficiency, and avoid costly mechanical or emissions-related issues over the long term.