What Oil Does the Audi A3 Use?

The Audi A3 typically uses fully synthetic engine oil that meets Volkswagen/Audi specification VW 504 00 / 507 00, in common viscosities such as 5W-30 or 0W-20, depending on model year and engine. However, the exact oil type, specification, and quantity vary by engine variant, production year, and market, so owners must confirm details in the vehicle’s manual or via an official Audi source.

Why the Correct Oil Matters for the Audi A3

The Audi A3 is designed with tight engineering tolerances and turbocharged engines that place heavy demands on lubrication. Using the wrong oil can lead to increased wear, higher fuel consumption, turbocharger damage, and even voided warranty coverage. Modern Audi engines are calibrated not just for viscosity but also for precise chemical and performance standards defined by VW/Audi’s own specifications.

Key Oil Specifications for the Audi A3

The most important factor in choosing oil for an Audi A3 is not just the viscosity (like 5W-30) but whether the oil meets Audi/VW’s official standards. These specifications ensure compatibility with extended service intervals, turbochargers, particulate filters, and emissions systems.

Core VW/Audi Oil Specifications

The following list outlines the engine oil specifications most commonly relevant to recent Audi A3 models.

• VW 504 00 / 507 00 – The current “universal” long-life spec for many modern Audi petrol (gasoline) and diesel engines in Europe and other markets. Often paired with 5W-30 fully synthetic oil. Suitable for long service intervals and engines with particulate filters.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00 – A newer low-viscosity, low-friction spec (commonly 0W-20) used in some latest-generation Audi A3 engines (particularly from the MQB/8Y generation onward, depending on engine and market). Designed for improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO₂ emissions.
• VW 502 00 / 505 00 – Older but still relevant specs, often for non-long-life service regimens or older A3 petrol and diesel engines. Typically used where fixed, shorter service intervals are specified.
• VW 505 01 – A specification historically required for certain older “Pumpe-Düse” (unit injector) TDI engines. Mostly relevant to early A3 diesel models and less common in newer generations.

Understanding these codes is essential because they encapsulate requirements for wear protection, detergency, emissions-system compatibility, and oil-change intervals. The viscosity must align with these specs, but the spec itself is what Audi engineers prioritize.

Typical Oil Types by Audi A3 Generation and Engine

Because the Audi A3 has been on the market since the mid-1990s, the recommended oil type varies with each generation and powertrain. Below is a general, up-to-date overview for common models; however, owners should always verify based on VIN or service documentation.

Third Generation (8V, approx. 2012–2020)

The third-generation Audi A3 introduced a wide range of TFSI petrol and TDI diesel engines, many using long-life service intervals and modern emissions technology.

• Petrol (1.0 TFSI, 1.2 TFSI, 1.4 TFSI, 1.5 TFSI, 1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI)

  Common recommendation: Fully synthetic 5W-30 meeting VW 504 00 (often paired with VW 507 00 on the label).

  Some later engines and specific markets may allow or require 0W-30 or 0W-20 under VW 508 00, but this is engine- and region-specific.

• Diesel (1.6 TDI, 2.0 TDI)

  Common recommendation: Fully synthetic 5W-30 meeting VW 507 00 (often combined 504 00/507 00). This spec is compatible with diesel particulate filters.

• S3 (2.0 TFSI high-performance)

  Typically: Fully synthetic 5W-30 or 0W-40 meeting VW 504 00 / 507 00 or, in some cases, performance-focused oils carrying at least VW 502 00. Many service centers still standardize on 5W-30 504/507 unless local documentation says otherwise.

• e-tron plug-in hybrid (1.4 TFSI + electric)

  Generally: 5W-30 fully synthetic meeting VW 504 00. The combustion engine is a variant of the TFSI family with the same core lubrication requirements as comparable non-hybrid units.

Owners of 8V A3 models should assume 5W-30 VW 504 00/507 00 unless their regional manual or dealer explicitly specifies a newer 0W-20 VW 508 00 oil.

Fourth Generation (8Y, from approx. 2020–present)

The current Audi A3 (8Y) employs even more efficiency-focused engines, and in some markets Audi increasingly specifies low-viscosity oils to support CO₂ and fuel-consumption targets.

• Petrol (1.0 TFSI, 1.5 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI)

  Common for many 8Y models:

  • 0W-20 fully synthetic meeting VW 508 00 for engines designed for ultra-low-viscosity oil, especially in Europe.
  • 5W-30 fully synthetic meeting VW 504 00 / 507 00 for other variants or markets where 508 00 is not prescribed.

  Exact requirement can change by market (EU, US, Middle East, Asia) and climate, so the owner’s manual is decisive.

• Diesel (2.0 TDI variants)

  Typically: 5W-30 fully synthetic meeting VW 507 00, often marketed as “LongLife III” type oils, and fully compatible with advanced emissions systems and long service intervals.

Because 8Y engines are relatively new and emissions rules are evolving, following Audi’s latest official recommendation (via manual, digital service record, or authorized dealer) is especially important.

Older Generations (8P and 8L, pre-2012)

Earlier Audi A3 generations typically had more conventional lubrication requirements but still required VW-compliant oils.

• Petrol engines (1.6, 1.8, 1.8T, 2.0 FSI, early TFSI)

  Common specs:

  • VW 502 00 for many engines on fixed service intervals, often with 5W-30, 5W-40, or 0W-40 fully synthetic.
  • VW 504 00 for later models with long-life intervals, typically in a 5W-30 viscosity.

• Diesel engines (1.9 TDI, early 2.0 TDI)

  Typical specs:

  • VW 505 00 or 505 01 for many early TDI engines (often with 5W-40).
  • VW 507 00 for later diesels fitted with diesel particulate filters, mostly in 5W-30 grade.

On older A3s, many cars on the road now use modern 5W-30 VW 504 00/507 00 oils as a safe, dealer-accepted choice, but checking whether your specific engine once required 505 01 or another spec is wise if the car is a long-term keeper.

Viscosity Grades: 0W-20, 5W-30, 5W-40 and What They Mean

Beyond VW specs, the oil’s viscosity—indicated by labels like 0W-20 or 5W-30—affects cold-start behavior, engine protection under high load, and efficiency. Audi’s recommendations balance protection and fuel economy for the assumed climate.

Common Viscosities Used in Audi A3 Models

The most frequently used viscosity grades for Audi A3 engines are listed below with their general characteristics.

• 0W-20

  Used mainly with VW 508 00. Very low viscosity, reducing internal friction and improving fuel economy. Typically factory-fill for some latest-generation A3 engines. Best suited for moderate climates and engines specifically designed for it.

• 5W-30

  The most common grade for modern Audi A3 models across petrol and diesel, especially under VW 504 00 / 507 00. Offers a strong balance of cold-start performance and protection at operating temperature. Widely available and often used by Audi dealers.

• 5W-40

  More common on older petrol and TDI engines or where VW 502 00 / 505 00 / 505 01 is specified. Slightly thicker at operating temperature, sometimes preferred in hotter climates or for older engines with higher mileage (provided the VW spec is still met).

• 0W-30

  Used in some markets and engines where Audi allows it, often with long-life service intervals. Cold-weather performance is improved; still needs to meet an appropriate VW spec such as 504 00/507 00 depending on the exact product.

While owners sometimes focus on viscosity alone, choosing oil that matches both the correct viscosity and the correct VW/Audi specification is essential for proper engine operation.

How to Check the Correct Oil for Your Specific Audi A3

Because Audi A3 engines and specifications differ by model year, engine code, and region, the definitive answer for “what oil does my A3 use?” comes from vehicle-specific documentation and identification.

Steps to Confirm the Right Oil

The following steps help an Audi A3 owner verify the exact oil required for their car.

1. Consult the Owner’s Manual

   The lubrication section usually lists the required VW spec (e.g., 504 00/507 00 or 508 00) and one or more acceptable viscosity grades for your climate.

2. Check the Service Booklet or Digital Service Record

   For vehicles with long-life servicing, Audi often highlights which “LongLife” oil family is required (LongLife III for 504/507, etc.).

3. Identify the Engine Code

   Engine codes (e.g., CZEA, DJHA, etc.) help dealers and online databases match your car to the correct oil spec. This code is usually found in the service book, on a sticker in the luggage compartment, or via VIN decoding.

4. Use an Official Audi or Major Oil Brand Lookup Tool

   Reputable oil manufacturers (e.g., Castrol, Shell, Mobil, Liqui Moly) and Audi dealer portals provide online configurators where you enter model, year, engine, and sometimes VIN to get an exact recommendation.

5. Speak to an Authorized Audi Service Center

   If in doubt, a franchised dealer or Audi specialist can confirm the current, official recommendation for your market, taking into account software updates, emissions rules, or service campaigns.

Following these steps ensures you use oil that aligns with Audi’s latest technical guidance, rather than relying on generic one-size-fits-all advice.

Common Brands and Product Lines That Meet Audi A3 Specs

Many mainstream oil brands sell products certified to VW/Audi specifications. The key is to read the label carefully for the exact VW code rather than relying solely on claims like “for European cars.”

Examples of Compatible Oils (Specification-Driven)

The following list cites common product families frequently used in Audi A3 models; availability varies by country and formulation updates.

• Castrol Edge / Edge Professional

  Variants like 5W-30 with VW 504 00 / 507 00 approvals are widely used by Audi dealers in many regions. Castrol also offers 0W-20 oils meeting VW 508 00 / 509 00.

• Shell Helix Ultra

  Shell Helix Ultra 5W-30 and select 0W-20 products often come with VW 504 00/507 00 or 508 00 approvals, depending on the specific SKU.

• Mobil 1 and Mobil Super

  Specific Mobil 1 ESP or equivalent variants carry VW 504 00/507 00, and there are dedicated low-viscosity Mobil products with VW 508 00/509 00 approval.

• Liqui Moly Top Tec / Special Tec

  Liqui Moly offers several oils formulated explicitly for VW/Audi, including 5W-30 504/507 and 0W-20 508/509, often clearly labeled with VW specs.

While brand choice is largely a matter of preference, the presence of the correct VW approval on the container is non-negotiable for maintaining warranty coverage and long-term engine health.

Oil Capacity and Service Intervals

Knowing the oil type is only part of the equation; owners also need to be aware of how much oil the engine holds and how often it should be changed.

Typical Oil Capacities

Oil capacity varies by engine size and design but falls within a relatively narrow range for most Audi A3 models.

• 1.0–1.5 TFSI three- and four-cylinder engines

  Typically around 3.5–4.5 liters, depending on specific engine and filter size.

• 1.8 and 2.0 TFSI petrol engines

  Often in the region of 4.5–5.7 liters, with performance variants like the S3 sometimes toward the upper end.

• 1.6 and 2.0 TDI diesel engines

  Usually about 4.3–5.0 liters, again dependent on engine code and filter configuration.

Exact capacities are printed in the owner’s manual and workshop data; using the dipstick or electronic level readout to confirm after filling is always recommended.

Service Interval Strategies

Audi uses two primary service strategies, and the oil spec is tied to which one your A3 follows.

• LongLife (Flexible) Service

  Applies to many European-market A3s. Oil-change intervals can extend up to around 30,000 km or 2 years (around 18,000–19,000 miles), depending on driving style, conditions, and onboard monitoring. Requires long-life oil such as VW 504 00 / 507 00 or 508 00 / 509 00, as specified.

• Fixed (Time/Distance) Service

  More common in North America and some other regions. Oil is typically changed every 10,000–15,000 km or 1 year (often 10,000 miles/1 year in the US). Oils meeting VW 502 00 or 504 00 may be used depending on the engine and local guidance.

Adhering to the service schedule—whichever is configured on your car—helps maintain engine reliability, especially on turbocharged and stop-start–equipped models.

Practical Tips for Owners

Beyond knowing the spec, a few practical measures help Audi A3 owners look after their engines and avoid avoidable wear.

Owner Best Practices for Engine Oil

The following tips summarize key points for maintaining correct lubrication in an Audi A3.

• Always match the VW spec – Before topping up or changing oil, verify that the bottle explicitly lists the required VW number (e.g., 504 00/507 00).
• Don’t mix incompatible oils unnecessarily – Occasional small top-ups of a different brand but same spec are usually acceptable, but avoid blending different specs (e.g., 504 00 and non-approved 502 00) without necessity.
• Monitor oil level regularly – Turbocharged engines can consume some oil, especially when new or driven hard. Check the dipstick or electronic gauge at least monthly or before long trips.
• Consider driving conditions – Frequent short trips, heavy city driving, or towing may justify earlier oil changes than the maximum interval shown in the service system.
• Retain receipts and records – If you perform your own oil changes, keep documentation showing the oil spec and interval, which can be important for warranty or resale value.

These habits ensure that even outside of dealership servicing, the engine still receives oil that aligns with Audi’s design intentions.

Summary

The Audi A3 uses fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific Volkswagen/Audi standards, most commonly VW 504 00 / 507 00 in a 5W-30 grade for many recent petrol and diesel models, and increasingly 0W-20 oils meeting VW 508 00 / 509 00 on newer engines. Older A3s may call for VW 502 00, 505 00, 505 01, or early 507 00 oils in 5W-30 or 5W-40 viscosities. Because requirements vary by model year, engine code, and region, the definitive source is the owner’s manual and official Audi or major oil-brand lookup tools. Matching both the correct VW specification and viscosity—and observing service intervals—is crucial to keep the Audi A3’s engine efficient, reliable, and compliant with emissions and warranty conditions.

What oil for 2019 Audi A3?

The 2019 Audi A3 oil type is 0W-20 or 0W-30 full synthetic, depending on the specific engine, requiring an oil that meets the VW 508 00 or VW 504 00 standard. Always check your owner’s manual or vehicle’s service book for the most accurate recommendation for your model’s engine. 
Specific recommendations

• For the 2.0T engine: The 2019 2.0T often requires 0W-30 or 0W-20 oil. 
• For B-Cycle models: The 2.0T engine with a B-Cycle specification requires VW 508 00 oil, which is typically 0W-20. 
• For other 2.0T models: Models without B-Cycle require oil that meets VW 504 00. 

How to confirm

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for the exact oil type and specifications your engine needs. 
• Use a vehicle-specific oil selector: Websites for major oil brands like Castrol or Stratstone have tools that can help you find the correct oil for your specific car. 

What type of oil does Audi recommend?

Audi engines require full-synthetic oil, with common types being 5W-30, 0W-40, and 5W-40, though the specific type depends on the model and climate. The correct oil must meet specific Audi/VW specifications, such as VW 502 00, VW 504 00, or LL-01, which can be found in the owner’s manual. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact specification recommended for your vehicle. 
Common Audi oil types

• 5W-30: A common choice that balances fuel efficiency and wear protection, suitable for many engines in moderate climates.
• 0W-40: Excellent for cold climates because it provides better cold-start protection.
• 5W-40: Often recommended for higher-performance models and turbocharged engines, as it offers good protection in warmer climates. 

Why full-synthetic oil is crucial

• Audi engines are designed for the superior performance of synthetic oil. 
• Conventional oil can break down too quickly, leading to poor lubrication, sludge buildup, and potential damage to the engine and turbocharger. 

How to find the right oil

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most important step, as it lists the exact viscosity and specification required for your engine. 
• Look for Audi/VW specifications: Ensure the oil you choose meets the specific Audi or Volkswagen approval number, such as VW 502 00, VW 505.00, or LL-04. 
• Consider your climate: Choose a viscosity grade that is appropriate for your local temperature conditions. 

What oil does the 2018 Audi A3 use?

The 2018 Audi A3 typically uses either 5W-40 full synthetic or 0W-20 full synthetic oil, depending on the specific engine type. It is crucial to use a full synthetic oil that meets the correct Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standard specified for your vehicle’s engine. For the 2.0T engine without the B-cycle, 5W-40 is common, while engines with the B-cycle may require 0W-20. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact recommendation. 
Oil type and specifications

• Engine without B-cycle (e.g., 2.0T):
  • Oil Type: Full synthetic 
  • Viscosity: 5W-40 
  • Specification: Must meet the VW 502 00 standard 
• Engine with B-cycle (e.g., 2.0T B-Cycle):
  • Oil Type: Full synthetic 
  • Viscosity: 0W-20 
  • Specification: Must meet the VW 508 00 standard 
• Sportback e-tron (1.4L engine):
  • Oil Type: Synthetic oil that meets the applicable Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standard 
  • Viscosity: 5W-40 

How to confirm the correct oil

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle’s oil requirements.
• Look for the engine code: Check the label under the hood or your vehicle’s documentation for the engine code to determine if it uses the B-cycle. 

What kind of oil does an Audi A3 need?

The Audi A3 oil type depends on the model year, but common recommendations include 5W-30, 5W-40, or 0W-20, with 5W-30 being a frequent choice for many models. It is crucial to consult your owner’s manual or the oil filler cap for the specific viscosity and, most importantly, the required oil quality specification (like VW 502 00 or VW 508 00) for your engine.
 
Common Audi A3 oil types

• 5W-30: A very common and often recommended oil for many A3 engines, suitable for a wide range of temperatures. 
• 5W-40: An excellent choice for warmer climates or turbocharged engines, providing extra protection. 
• 0W-20: Often specified for newer models with specific engine designs, especially those with the B-Cycle engine. 

How to choose the right oil

1. Check your owner’s manual: This is the definitive source for your vehicle’s specific requirements. 
2. Look at the oil filler cap: Many caps have the recommended viscosity printed on them. 
3. Match the oil quality standard: Simply matching the viscosity isn’t enough. The oil must meet a specific Audi/VW quality standard (e.g., VW 502 00 or VW 508 00). 
4. Consider your climate: While 5W-30 is common, 5W-40 might offer better protection in very hot weather, while 0W-30 can be better in very cold weather. 
5. Use full synthetic: For most modern Audi engines, a full synthetic oil is the best choice for optimal performance and protection.