What Oil Does an Audi A4 Quattro Take?

An Audi A4 quattro typically requires a fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific Volkswagen/Audi standards—most commonly VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, with viscosity grades like 0W-30, 0W-40, or 5W-40 depending on model year, engine type, and climate. In practice, that means using a high‑quality synthetic oil from brands such as Castrol, Motul, Mobil 1, or Liqui Moly that explicitly lists the correct VW approval on the bottle.

Why the “Right” Oil Matters for an Audi A4 Quattro

The Audi A4 quattro’s engines—especially the turbocharged TFSI units—run hot, operate under high pressure, and rely on precisely engineered lubrication. Using the correct specification oil is crucial not just for performance, but also for turbo longevity, fuel economy, and keeping warranty and long‑term reliability intact. Audi (and parent company Volkswagen) define exact oil standards, and those are more important than simply picking a brand or a generic viscosity.

Core Oil Specifications: VW 502 00, 504 00 and Others

The most important factor in choosing oil for an Audi A4 quattro is the VW/Audi approval printed on the back of the container. These internal standards ensure the oil can withstand extended drain intervals, high temperatures, and the specific design of Audi engines and emissions systems.

Key VW Oil Approvals for Most Audi A4 Quattro Models

The following list details the main VW specifications typically required for Audi A4 quattro engines from the mid‑2000s through current models, and how they differ.

• VW 502 00 – The most common spec for gasoline (petrol) A4 engines in North America and many global markets. Suitable for fixed/normal oil change intervals, usually with 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 fully synthetic oil.
• VW 504 00 – A newer, “long‑life” spec for many modern gasoline engines, often paired with flexible/extended service intervals. Typically uses low‑ash 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 synthetic oil.
• VW 505 01 / 507 00 – Primarily for diesel engines, especially those with particulate filters (DPF). 507 00 is the common low‑ash long‑life spec for modern TDI engines.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00 – Ultra‑low viscosity (often 0W‑20) long‑life oils for some newest‑generation engines, focused on maximum efficiency. Only applicable if explicitly listed in your manual.
• VW 500 00 / 501 01 / 505 00 – Older specs that may appear in manuals for late‑1990s or very early 2000s models, but newer oils that meet higher specs (like 502 00) are commonly used as an upgrade.

These specifications are not interchangeable by guesswork: the correct one is listed in your owner’s manual and often on a label under the hood or near the oil filler cap. The bottle must explicitly state that it “meets” or is “approved to” the VW spec you need.

Typical Oil Types by Generation and Engine

Because Audi A4 quattro models span multiple generations, engines, and markets, there isn’t a single universal answer. But there are common patterns that apply to many mainstream versions, especially turbocharged 2.0 TFSI engines.

B6/B7 (Approx. 2002–2008, 1.8T, Early 2.0T, V6)

B6 and B7 A4 quattro models often use older turbocharged 1.8T and early 2.0T engines, plus 3.0 and 3.2 V6 variants. These engines are sensitive to oil quality, particularly the 1.8T which is prone to sludge if the wrong oil or late changes are used.

The list below summarizes the typical recommendations for these vehicles.

• Specification: Usually VW 502 00 for gasoline engines.
• Viscosity: Commonly 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 full synthetic, depending on climate.
• Examples:
  

  • Castrol Edge 0W‑40 (VW 502 00 approved)
  • Mobil 1 FS 0W‑40 (formerly “European Car Formula”)
  • Liqui Moly Synthoil High Tech 5W‑40 (check label for VW 502 00)

• Diesel variants: Usually require VW 505 01 or 507 00, depending on model year and DPF fitment.

Owners of older A4 quattros often favor a 40‑weight synthetic oil that meets VW 502 00 for added protection, especially in high‑mileage or tuned cars, while sticking to conservative change intervals.

B8/B8.5 (Approx. 2009–2016, 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI)

The B8 generation introduced the EA888‑series 2.0 TFSI in wide use—an engine family that responds strongly to oil quality, particularly regarding timing‑chain tensioner health and carbon buildup.

The following points capture common oil choices for these models.

• Primary spec: VW 502 00 for most gasoline A4 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI models (North America and many other markets).
• Long‑life markets: In some European markets with variable service intervals, VW 504 00 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 may be specified.
• Typical viscosity:
  

  • 5W‑40 synthetic (very common aftermarket choice)
  • 0W‑40 in colder climates or when following Audi’s recommendations for all‑season use

• Diesel (TDI) models: Most require VW 507 00 low‑SAPs oil, usually 5W‑30.

Enthusiasts with B8 A4 quattros frequently choose a high‑quality 5W‑40 meeting VW 502 00, and many change oil more often than the factory interval to reduce carbon issues and timing‑chain wear.

B9/B9.5 (Approx. 2017–Present, 2.0 TFSI & Newer Engines)

The B9 generation introduced more efficient versions of the 2.0 TFSI and mild‑hybrid options, sometimes with new oil recommendations depending on market. Some newer engines support lower viscosity oils for fuel economy, but specification compliance remains non‑negotiable.

The list below reflects typical guidelines for modern B9 A4 quattro models.

• Gasoline engines:
  

  • Common spec: VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 (varies by market and service schedule).
  • Viscosity: often 0W‑30, 5W‑30, or 0W‑40, depending on climate and manual.

• Efficient/eco variants: Some may list VW 508 00 0W‑20 as the factory fill, but this will be clearly printed in the owner’s manual if required.
• Diesel (TDI) versions: Typically VW 507 00 5W‑30 low‑ash oil, especially on models with DPF and SCR after‑treatment.
• Market differences: North American manuals often stress VW 502 00/504 00 approved oils, while European cars on LongLife service regimes may lean more heavily on VW 504 00/507 00 long‑life oils.

For a current‑generation B9 A4 quattro, it is especially important to check the exact engine code and manual: some engines tolerate multiple approved specs, while others require very specific low‑viscosity oils paired with flexible service intervals.

Choosing the Right Viscosity

After ensuring the VW spec is correct, the next decision is viscosity—how “thick” the oil is at cold start and at operating temperature. Audi usually lists several acceptable viscosities based on the climate in which the car operates.

Common Viscosity Grades for Audi A4 Quattro

The following viscosity options are frequently recommended or used in Audi A4 quattro models, especially turbocharged gasoline engines.

• 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 – Common in modern engines, especially when VW 504 00 or VW 507 00 is required. Good balance of fuel economy and protection in moderate climates.
• 0W‑40 – Popular multi‑season choice, especially for turbo engines that see cold starts and high loads. Often paired with VW 502 00 approval.
• 5W‑40 – Frequently favored in warmer climates or for spirited driving and tuned engines. Provides a slightly thicker film at high temperatures while still flowing well at typical cold starts.
• 0W‑20 – Used only in some latest‑generation Audi engines with VW 508 00 approval; not suitable unless explicitly specified by your manual.

While multiple viscosities may technically meet the same VW standard, picking one that aligns with your climate and driving style—while strictly following Audi’s minimum requirements—helps maintain both efficiency and engine longevity.

Brand Examples That Meet Audi/VW Specifications

Many major oil manufacturers produce fully synthetic oils approved for Audi/VW specs. The brand is less important than the presence of the correct VW approval on the label, but certain products are particularly popular among Audi owners and independent specialists.

Widely Used Oils for Audi A4 Quattro

The following products are frequently recommended for Audi A4 quattro models, assuming the specific VW approval matches your manual.

• Castrol Edge 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 – Often carries VW 502 00 approval; Castrol has historically been a recommended partner for Audi in many markets.
• Mobil 1 FS 0W‑40 – A popular “European formula” oil meeting VW 502 00 and suitable for many gasoline A4 quattros.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec and Synthoil lines – Multiple products with VW 502 00, 504 00, and 507 00 approvals; especially common among European car specialists.
• Motul Specific and 8100 series – Select variants carry VW 502 00/505 00, 504 00/507 00 approvals, often chosen by performance‑oriented owners.
• Shell Helix Ultra / Pennzoil Platinum Euro – Certain “Euro” formulations are explicitly approved to VW 502 00, 504 00, or 507 00, and are widely available in many regions.

Regardless of brand, always verify the exact VW spec on the back label; marketing phrases like “for European cars” are not sufficient unless the official approval number is stated.

Oil Change Intervals and Practical Considerations

Modern Audi A4 quattro models are often equipped with flexible service indicators that can allow long intervals—sometimes up to 10,000–15,000 miles (15,000–30,000 km) in some regions. However, real‑world conditions and engine design often justify more conservative routines, particularly for turbocharged engines.

Recommended Service Practices

To keep an Audi A4 quattro’s engine in strong condition, several oil‑related practices are commonly advised by independent experts and experienced owners.

• Follow the spec, not just the interval: Always use oil that meets or exceeds the VW spec listed in your manual; this is more critical than stretching intervals.
• Consider shorter intervals: Many enthusiasts change oil every 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km), especially for turbocharged engines, frequent short trips, or hot climates.
• Monitor consumption: Some Audi 2.0 TFSI engines are known to consume oil; checking and topping up regularly helps prevent low‑oil conditions.
• Warm‑up and cool‑down habits: Gentle driving until the engine warms and avoiding immediate hard shutdown after high‑load driving help protect both oil and turbochargers.
• Use a quality filter: Pair approved oil with OEM or OEM‑quality filters (MANN, Mahle, Hengst, or genuine Audi/VW) to maintain proper filtration and oil pressure.

Combining the correct oil spec with sensible intervals and driving habits significantly reduces risk of sludge, timing‑chain wear, and turbo issues, especially as the car ages or mileage climbs.

How to Confirm the Exact Oil for Your Specific Audi A4 Quattro

Because trim levels, engines, and regional specs vary, the most accurate answer for your car will always come from its documentation and identification numbers rather than general guidance alone.

Steps to Verify the Correct Oil

The following steps help you pinpoint the exact oil type your particular Audi A4 quattro requires.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look for the “Engine Oil” or “Lubricants” section; it will list the VW standard(s) (e.g., VW 502 00, VW 504 00) and often the recommended viscosities.
2. Inspect under‑hood labels: Some models have a sticker near the radiator support or under the oil cap indicating the required oil spec.
3. Identify your engine code: Codes like CAEB, CPMA, EA888 Gen 2/3 help service advisors and parts catalogs recommend the correct oil; these codes appear in service documents and sometimes in the trunk data sticker.
4. Use Audi/VW dealer or official parts catalog: A dealership or authorized service center can confirm the current recommended oil spec by VIN.
5. Cross‑reference oil brand websites: Major oil manufacturers provide online tools: enter your car’s year, model, engine, and region to see approved products.

Following these steps ensures you are not relying on generic advice or assumptions and that the oil you use is explicitly approved for your particular engine and market.

Summary

An Audi A4 quattro generally requires fully synthetic oil that meets specific Volkswagen/Audi standards—most commonly VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 for gasoline engines, and VW 507 00 for modern diesels—with viscosities such as 0W‑30, 0W‑40, or 5W‑40 selected according to climate and engine design. While well‑known brands like Castrol, Mobil 1, Liqui Moly, Motul, and Shell all offer suitable options, the decisive factor is the official VW approval printed on the bottle, not the name on the front label. To determine exactly what your A4 quattro needs, consult the owner’s manual, under‑hood labels, and, if necessary, a dealer or trusted specialist using your VIN or engine code. Using an approved oil, pairing it with a quality filter, and observing sensible change intervals are the key steps to keeping an Audi A4 quattro’s engine—and its quattro drivetrain—reliable for the long term.