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What Oil Does a 2013 Audi A4 2.0T Take?

Your 2013 Audi A4 2.0T requires high-quality synthetic engine oil that meets Volkswagen/Audi specification VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 in some regions), typically in viscosity grades 5W-40 or 0W-40 for most climates; 5W-30 can also be used if it explicitly meets the correct VW spec.

Understanding the Correct Oil Specification

The most critical factor for choosing oil for a 2013 Audi A4 2.0T is not just the viscosity (the “5W-40” number) but the manufacturer approval standard. Audi uses Volkswagen Group specifications, and using the wrong type of oil can cause premature wear, increased oil consumption, or warranty and repair complications.

Required Audi/VW Oil Specs

The following points outline the official oil standards you should look for on the bottle label when servicing a 2013 Audi A4 2.0T.

  • Primary spec: VW 502 00 – This is the main requirement for gasoline engines like the 2.0T in the 2013 A4 for most markets.
  • Alternative spec: VW 504 00 – Often used for extended drain intervals and low-ash formulations, and is backward compatible with 502 00 in many cases.
  • Do not rely only on “meets or exceeds” claims – Look for explicit wording such as “Approved VW 502 00” or “VW 502 00 / 504 00” on the technical data sheet or label.
  • Avoid diesel-only specs – Specifications like VW 505 00, 507 00 alone are typically aimed at diesel engines and diesel particulate filter needs, and should not be used unless clearly indicated as multi-spec including 502 00 or 504 00.
  • Check the owner’s manual – Regional differences (Europe vs. North America, etc.) can influence which spec is preferred or factory-recommended.

Focusing on the correct VW/Audi approval ensures the oil’s additive package, high-temperature stability, and detergency are tailored to the turbocharged 2.0T engine’s needs.

Recommended Oil Viscosity Grades

Once you’ve confirmed the proper VW spec, choose a viscosity that matches your climate and driving pattern. Audi-approved oils come in several viscosity grades that work with the 2.0T engine.

Common Viscosity Options

The list below explains the most commonly recommended viscosities for a 2013 Audi A4 2.0T and how they relate to everyday use and climate.

  • 5W-40 (most common recommendation) – A widely used choice for the 2.0T that offers strong protection at high temperatures and reliable cold-start performance in moderate to cold climates.
  • 0W-40 – Especially suitable for colder climates, where faster oil circulation at start-up is important; still provides robust high-temperature protection when properly approved to VW 502 00/504 00.
  • 5W-30 (only if approved) – Acceptable if it carries VW 502 00 or 504 00 approval; often used where fuel economy is emphasized, but must not be a generic 5W-30 without the Audi/VW approval.
  • 10W-40 or other non-listed grades – Typically not recommended for modern Audi gasoline engines unless specifically indicated in the owner’s manual for extreme conditions.
  • Mixing viscosities – Topping off with a different, but compatible, approved oil in emergencies is generally acceptable, but consistent use of a single spec and grade is better for long-term engine health.

Selecting an approved 5W-40 or 0W-40 will cover most daily driving conditions, while ensuring reliable lubrication during both cold starts and sustained highway or performance driving.

How Much Oil Does the 2013 Audi A4 2.0T Take?

Knowing the correct oil capacity helps you avoid overfilling or running the engine low on oil, both of which can damage a turbocharged engine.

Approximate Oil Capacity

The points below summarize the typical oil fill capacity for a 2013 Audi A4 2.0T, which uses the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (EA888 generation engine family).

  • With filter change: Approximately 4.6–4.9 liters (about 4.9–5.2 US quarts), depending on exact engine variant and production date.
  • Without filter change: Slightly less than with filter, since some old oil remains in the filter housing.
  • Check the dipstick or MMI display – Always verify the level after filling; add oil gradually and allow time for the oil to settle before rechecking.
  • Do not overfill – Overfilling can increase crankcase pressure and potentially harm seals or the turbocharger.
  • Consult the manual or under-hood sticker – Localized documentation may provide the exact capacity for your specific engine code and market.

Treat the capacity numbers as a guideline and always rely on the dipstick or vehicle level sensor to confirm that the oil level is within the recommended range.

Examples of Suitable Oil Brands and Products

Many mainstream and premium oil brands offer fully synthetic products that carry VW 502 00 or 504 00 approvals. The specific brand is less important than the approval itself, but some options are particularly popular among Audi owners and service centers.

Commonly Used Oils Meeting VW 502 00/504 00

The following list highlights several widely available oils (availability varies by region) that typically meet the 2013 A4 2.0T requirements; always confirm the current approval on the label or manufacturer website.

  • Castrol EDGE 5W-40 (or 0W-40) with VW 502 00/505 00 approval – Frequently used by Audi dealers in various markets.
  • Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 – Often carries VW 502 00/505 00 approval and is popular for European performance engines.
  • Liqui Moly Top Tec or Special Tec series (5W-40, 5W-30) – Several variants are specifically labeled for VW/Audi 502 00/504 00 applications.
  • Shell Helix Ultra / Pennzoil Platinum Euro 5W-40 or 0W-40 – “Euro” formulations commonly carry VW 502 00/504 00 approvals.
  • Motul Specific or Motul 8100 series (5W-40, 0W-40) – Selected products are approved for VW 502 00/505 00 or VW 504 00/507 00.

Always double-check the exact product code and approval list, as formulations can change over time and not every product from a given line will meet the required VW standard.

Service Intervals and Practical Tips

Using the correct oil is only part of maintaining your 2013 A4 2.0T; following sensible change intervals and routinely checking levels are equally important, especially for a turbocharged engine known to be sensitive to oil quality.

Oil Change Intervals

The following points outline practical guidance on when to change your oil and how to monitor engine health through oil maintenance.

  • Factory interval (often 10,000 miles / 15,000 km or up to 1 year) – Many markets specify a long-life interval when using approved oil.
  • Enthusiast/“severe use” interval: ~5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km) – Often recommended by independent specialists for turbocharged engines, particularly with frequent short trips or spirited driving.
  • Check level regularly – The 2.0T engine can consume some oil; verify level every 1,000–1,500 miles (1,500–2,500 km) and top off with the same approved oil if needed.
  • Warm engine before spirited driving – Proper warm-up helps oil reach its optimal viscosity, improving protection for the turbocharger and valvetrain.
  • Keep records – Document brand, viscosity, VW spec, mileage, and date of each oil change for maintenance history and resale value.

Combining the correct oil with sensible service intervals and periodic level checks significantly reduces the risk of sludge formation, timing-chain wear, and turbocharger issues in the long term.

How to Confirm the Exact Recommendation for Your Car

While the general guidance applies to most 2013 Audi A4 2.0T models, minor variations in engine codes and regional specifications make it wise to verify details for your specific vehicle.

Key Places to Check

The following items can help you confirm the exact oil requirement for your individual car, ensuring that any regional or engine-code differences are taken into account.

  • Owner’s manual – Contains the official oil spec and viscosity chart for your model year and market.
  • Service booklet or under-hood labels – Sometimes list the preferred VW spec and viscosity range.
  • Audi dealer or authorized service center – Can check your VIN and local technical bulletins for the latest guidance.
  • VIN-based parts catalogs or service portals – Online systems can identify the exact engine code (e.g., CAEB, CPMA) and linked oil spec.
  • Oil manufacturer websites – Many brands offer “oil finder” tools that cross-reference your make, model, year, and engine.

Verifying the specification against at least one official or VIN-based source ensures you match the oil to your exact 2013 A4 2.0T configuration and local standards.

Summary

Your 2013 Audi A4 2.0T is designed to run on fully synthetic engine oil that meets Volkswagen/Audi specification VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 where applicable), most commonly in 5W-40 or 0W-40 viscosity. Capacity is roughly about 5 quarts / 4.7 liters with filter, but the final level should always be set using the dipstick or on-board oil-level display. Choose a reputable brand with explicit VW approval, respect sensible change intervals (often 5,000–10,000 miles depending on use), and check the owner’s manual or dealer for any region- or engine-code-specific nuances. This approach will give your A4’s 2.0T engine the protection and longevity it was engineered for.

What oil is best for an Audi A4?

Choosing the Best Oil for Your Audi A4
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 I use 5w40 instead of 5w30 for Audi?

As an emergency measure yes 5w40 is ok.

Is Dot 4 for an Audi A4 2015?

StopTech DOT 4 Racing Brake Fluid is available in two formulations depending on the operating temperature of your vehicle: STR600 and STR660. It is engineered to give street and strip vehicles the best in braking performance.

What oil does a 2013 Audi A4 2.0 T take?

For most A4 engines, SAE 5W-40 grade motor oils are suitable, offering excellent protection in various temperatures. If this isn’t available, SAE 5W-30 or another motor oil with an alternative viscosity can be used as long as it adheres to Audi’s oil-quality standards.

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