What Oil Does Audi Recommend for the Q5?

Audi generally recommends fully synthetic engine oil that meets its official VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 specifications (or newer equivalents) for most Q5 gasoline engines, and VW 507 00 for most modern Q5 diesel models, typically in 0W‑30, 0W‑40, 5W‑30, or 5W‑40 viscosities depending on engine, market, and climate. However, the exact recommended oil for your Audi Q5 depends on model year, engine code, and service regime, so owners should always confirm against the owner’s manual, the oil-fill cap label, or an Audi dealer.

How Audi Specifies Oil for the Q5

The question of “what oil does Audi recommend for the Q5?” sounds simple, but Audi no longer specifies oil just by viscosity such as 5W‑30. Instead, the brand uses internal VW/Audi oil specifications that define performance, detergent packages, and compatibility with components such as turbochargers, gasoline particulate filters (GPF), and diesel particulate filters (DPF). That means the correct choice is about meeting the right VW spec first, and viscosity second.

Key Audi/VW Oil Specifications for the Q5

To choose the right oil for an Audi Q5, it is essential to understand the VW specifications that Audi uses globally across its gasoline and diesel engines. These specifications ensure compatibility with long-life service intervals, turbochargers, and emissions systems.

• VW 502 00: A widely used spec for high-performance gasoline engines, suitable for many Q5 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TFSI engines on fixed (time/mileage-based) service intervals. Typically paired with 0W‑40, 5W‑40, or sometimes 5W‑30 fully synthetic oils.
• VW 504 00: Newer high-performance gasoline spec for extended “LongLife” service intervals in many modern Audi engines. Typically used with low‑ash, low‑SAPS 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 oils and compatible with GPF/DPF systems.
• VW 505 00 / 505 01: Older diesel specs, sometimes applicable to early European Q5 diesel models (e.g., early 2.0 TDI and 3.0 TDI), often for fixed interval servicing.
• VW 507 00: Main modern diesel spec for engines with DPF, including most 2.0 TDI and 3.0 TDI Q5 models, designed for extended intervals and low‑ash formulations. Usually 5W‑30 fully synthetic.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00: Newer ultra‑low‑viscosity specs (often 0W‑20) for certain latest-generation Audi engines focusing on fuel economy and CO₂ reduction. Some very recent Q5 engines in certain markets may require this oil.

These specifications matter more than the brand name on the bottle; any oil you choose must explicitly state that it meets or is approved to the relevant VW/Audi spec for your engine and model year.

Common Oil Recommendations by Q5 Generation

Because the Audi Q5 has evolved across multiple generations with different engines and emissions systems, the recommended oil spec can change between model years. The following overview summarizes the typical recommendations, but owners should still verify details for their specific vehicle.

First Generation (2010–2017, Typ 8R)

For the first-generation Q5, particularly in North America and Europe, Audi primarily used turbocharged gasoline and diesel engines with more traditional viscosity grades, though still fully synthetic and spec-based.

• Gasoline engines (2.0 TFSI, 3.2 FSI, 3.0 TFSI): Most markets: oil meeting VW 502 00. Common viscosities: 5W‑40 or 0W‑40. In some cases, 5W‑30 approved to VW 502 00 may also be allowed.
• Diesel engines (2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI) with DPF: Typically oil meeting VW 507 00, usually a 5W‑30 low‑ash synthetic. Some early non‑DPF or certain regional variants could be VW 505 01 (check manual).
• Service regimes: Many European Q5 models were set up for flexible “LongLife” service intervals, requiring 504 00/507 00 (depending on engine). Fixed interval schedules often used 502 00 (gasoline) or 505 01 / 507 00 (diesel).

For this generation, in practice, a VW 502 00 5W‑40 synthetic (gasoline) or VW 507 00 5W‑30 synthetic (diesel) covered the majority of Q5 use cases, provided the manual confirmed compatibility.

Second Generation (2018–Present, Typ FY)

The second-generation Q5 introduced new engines, mild‑hybrid technology in some regions, and stricter emissions controls, which increased reliance on low‑SAPS oils and newer VW specs.

• Gasoline engines (2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI, SQ5 variants): Most will call for an oil meeting either VW 502 00 or VW 504 00. Common viscosities include 0W‑30, 0W‑40, and 5W‑30, depending on market and climate. Some late‑model engines in certain regions may specify VW 508 00 (0W‑20) for fuel efficiency.
• Diesel engines (2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI, mild hybrid variants): Typically require VW 507 00, again usually a 5W‑30 low‑ash synthetic suitable for DPF systems and extended change intervals.
• Plug‑in hybrid Q5 TFSI e: The combustion engine part usually follows the same spec as equivalent non‑hybrid gasoline engines in that market, most commonly VW 504 00 or VW 502 00 with 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 viscosity, but the owner’s manual must be consulted because hybrids can have specific requirements.

In many countries, the factory-filled and dealer-serviced oils for this generation are 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 fully synthetics conforming to VW 504 00/507 00 or newer 508 00/509 00 specs, aligning with emissions and fuel-economy goals.

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

While the VW specification is the core requirement, viscosity still matters for cold starts, operating temperature, and climate. Audi typically lists several acceptable viscosities in the owner’s manual, along with a temperature chart.

• 0W‑30 / 0W‑40: Favorable for cold climates thanks to very low-temperature flow properties, while still protecting at operating temperature. Increasingly common for modern Q5 engines with tight tolerances and start‑stop systems.
• 5W‑30: A common all‑round choice for both gasoline and diesel Q5 engines, especially where VW 504 00/507 00 is specified. Balances fuel efficiency and protection, widely recommended by dealers.
• 5W‑40: Often used in earlier Q5 gasoline engines specified to VW 502 00 and in hotter climates where a slightly thicker oil at high temperature can be advantageous.
• 0W‑20 (for VW 508 00): Used in some newer, efficiency-optimized engines. Only use 0W‑20 if the vehicle documentation explicitly calls for VW 508 00/509 00—using a thicker oil may not be approved and could affect fuel economy and warranty.

The general rule: match the VW spec first, then choose a viscosity listed in your manual that suits your climate. Never substitute a viscosity that the manual does not approve, especially on engines with GPF/DPF or on newer 0W‑20 designs.

Typical Dealer-Filled Oils and Trusted Brands

Many owners want to know exact products, not just specs. Audi dealerships usually use bulk oils that comply with the right VW standards; these are often co-branded with major oil manufacturers.

• Audi/VW OEM-branded oil: Sold in dealerships, usually labeled clearly with VW 502 00 / 504 00 / 507 00 / 508 00 / 509 00. This is the easiest way to ensure full compatibility.
• Major global brands: Products from Castrol, Mobil 1, Shell (Helix), Liqui Moly, TotalEnergies, Motul, and others often have lines explicitly approved for VW 502 00, 504 00, 507 00, or 508 00. The label should say “VW 504 00/507 00 approved” (or similar), not just “meets requirements,” if you want full manufacturer approval.
• Local variants and naming: Exact product names vary by country (for instance, “Castrol Edge 5W‑30 LL” in parts of Europe is a common VW 504 00/507 00 oil), so always confirm the VW spec in the small print on the bottle.

While brand preference can differ, Audi is explicit that the critical requirement is adherence to the specified VW standard, not using a specific brand name.

How to Check the Correct Oil for Your Specific Q5

Because engine codes, regional emissions equipment, and service strategies differ, relying solely on generic model-year guidance can be risky. Audi gives multiple ways to confirm the correct oil for your individual vehicle.

• Owner’s manual: The lubrication section will list the required VW standard (e.g., “Use only VW 504 00 / 507 00 approved oils”) as well as recommended viscosities and temperature ranges.
• Oil filler cap or under-hood labels: Many Q5 vehicles have a printed reminder of the required VW spec or at least the general type (e.g., “use only VW 502 00/504 00”).
• VIN-based dealer lookup: An Audi service department can look up your exact engine code and service regime by VIN and confirm the current official recommendation, including any updates or technical service bulletins.
• Digital manuals and online portals: Audi’s official websites in many regions let you access the manual by VIN or model; this can be especially useful if your car changed markets or if you bought it used without full documentation.

Using these reference points ensures that you match both the VW spec and viscosity to the precise configuration of your Q5, reducing the risk of warranty issues or accelerated wear.

Oil Change Intervals and Service Regimes

Choosing the correct oil for an Audi Q5 is closely linked with how often it is changed. Audi differentiates between fixed and flexible (LongLife) service intervals, and oil specs are tied to each approach.

• Fixed interval servicing: Often every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, in markets such as North America. Oils meeting VW 502 00 (gasoline) or VW 505 01/507 00 (diesel) are typical for these intervals.
• Flexible/LongLife servicing (mainly Europe): Can extend up to approximately 18,000–20,000 miles (30,000 km) or 2 years under ideal driving conditions. This regime usually requires VW 504 00 (gasoline) and VW 507 00 (diesel) oils, engineered for longer drain intervals.
• Severe use conditions: Frequent short trips, heavy towing, hot climates, or dusty environments can justify shorter intervals than the maximum allowed even with LongLife oil. Audi manuals often recommend more frequent changes under such conditions.

Regardless of official maximum intervals, many enthusiasts and independent specialists change Q5 engine oil more frequently to maintain engine cleanliness and turbocharger health, especially on heavily stressed TFSI and TDI engines.

Special Cases: Modified Engines, Older Q5s, and Warranty

Some owners tune or modify their Q5, or they drive older, high-mileage examples; these situations may influence oil choice, but do not override basic Audi requirements.

• Performance tuning (ECU remaps, hardware upgrades): Many tuners still recommend sticking to the factory VW spec, sometimes favoring slightly thicker viscosities within the approved list (e.g., choosing 5W‑40 over 5W‑30 for hard track use in a 502 00‑approved context).
• High‑mileage Q5s: Providing the engine is in good condition, you should usually continue using the factory-recommended VW spec and viscosity range. Switching to non‑approved “high-mileage” oils can jeopardize emissions systems and may not be compatible with LongLife intervals.
• Warranty considerations: For vehicles still under manufacturer or extended warranty, Audi expects documented use of oil meeting the approved VW specification. Using oils that only “claim to meet” but are not formally approved, or using the wrong spec entirely, can risk coverage disputes if an engine problem arises.

Even outside warranty, following Audi’s official oil specifications is typically the safest approach for engine health, resale value, and compliance with emissions requirements.

Summary

Audi’s recommended oil for the Q5 is defined primarily by internal VW specifications, not just by viscosity. Most gasoline Q5 engines, particularly from the first generation, call for fully synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, while most modern diesel Q5s require VW 507 00. Newer efficiency‑focused engines may specify VW 508 00/509 00, often in a 0W‑20 viscosity. Common viscosity grades across the range include 0W‑30, 0W‑40, 5W‑30, and 5W‑40, with the exact choice depending on engine type, climate, and service regime.

To identify the precise oil your Audi Q5 needs, consult the owner’s manual, check any under-hood or filler-cap labels, or confirm with an Audi dealer using your VIN. As long as the oil is fully synthetic and explicitly approved to the correct VW spec and viscosity range listed in your manual, it will meet Audi’s recommendations for protecting your Q5’s engine and emissions systems.

Is Mobil 1 ok for Audi?

Choose Mobil 1™ motor oil for your Audi
We offer a full range of synthetic and synthetic blend motor oils to keep your engine in peak condition throughout its lifetime.

What oil should I put in my Audi Q5?

Castrol – GTX High Mileage 5W-20 Synthetic Blend Engine Oil, Protects Against Sludge, 5 Quart (Part No. 1597C4)

What oil brand does Audi recommend?

Audi recommends using synthetic oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification. Here are a few top choices: Castrol EDGE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil: Known for its exceptional strength under high pressure, this oil provides superior protection and performance for your Audi A4.

Can you put 5W-30 in an Audi Q5?

Yes, 5W-30 oil can be used in your Audi if it meets the VW/Audi oil quality standards specified for your engine type. Always consult your owner’s manual for the correct specifications to ensure optimal performance and protection.