What Oil Does the Audi A8 Use?

The Audi A8 typically uses fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific VW/Audi standards (such as VW 504 00 / 507 00), with the exact grade most often being 0W-30 or 5W-30 depending on engine, model year, and climate. Owners should always follow the oil specification in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the under-hood label to ensure proper lubrication, warranty compliance, and long-term engine health.

Why Oil Specification Matters for the Audi A8

The Audi A8 is a high-end luxury sedan with advanced, high-output engines that run hot, use turbocharging in most modern variants, and incorporate long-service oil intervals. These factors make the type and specification of engine oil critically important: the wrong oil can accelerate wear, increase deposits, and even risk engine damage or emissions system failures over time. Understanding which oil your specific A8 requires is essential for safe, efficient operation.

Core Oil Specifications for Modern Audi A8 Models

Most current and recent Audi A8 models (particularly in Europe and many global markets) use oils that comply with Volkswagen Group’s own performance standards rather than generic API-only or ACEA-only requirements. The most common modern spec is VW 504 00 / 507 00, which is designed for extended drain intervals, turbocharged engines, and emissions systems such as particulate filters.

Typical Oil Specs by Model Year (Approximate Guide)

The following list outlines the most commonly specified oil standards and viscosity ranges for many Audi A8 generations, but individual engines and regional variants can differ. Always double-check your owner’s manual or official Audi service documentation before purchasing oil.

• Current A8 (D5, from ~2018 onward):

  – Most gasoline and diesel engines: VW 504 00 / 507 00 fully synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30, depending on market and climate.

• A8 (D4, ~2010–2017):

  – Many gasoline TFSI and TDI engines: VW 504 00 / 507 00, commonly 5W-30.

  – Some earlier or high-performance engines may specify VW 502 00 (gasoline) or VW 505 01 (diesel) with 5W-40 or 5W-30.

• A8 (D3, ~2002–2009):

  – Gasoline engines: Usually VW 502 00 / 505 00, often 5W-40 or 0W-40 fully synthetic.

  – Diesels: Often VW 505 01 or later 507 00 for DPF-equipped engines.

• Early A8 (D2, 1990s–early 2000s):

  – Typically VW 502 00 / 505 00, common viscosities 5W-40, 0W-40, or 10W-40 (climate dependent).

While these ranges describe typical factory recommendations, Audi sometimes updates oil specs during a model’s life, especially when emissions or service-interval policies change, so consulting the latest official guidance is key.

Understanding VW/Audi Oil Codes and What They Mean

Volkswagen Group uses its own performance codes (e.g., VW 504 00) to classify engine oils. These codes encompass viscosity, additive chemistry, shear stability, deposit control, and compatibility with exhaust aftertreatment systems. For an Audi A8 owner, matching these codes is more important than focusing solely on the viscosity grade printed on the bottle.

Main Audi A8-Relevant Oil Standards

The following list explains the VW standards you’re most likely to encounter when choosing oil for an Audi A8 and how they relate to different generations and engine designs.

• VW 504 00: High-performance gasoline engine oil for modern, direct-injection and turbocharged engines; supports extended drain intervals and protects against deposits at high temperatures.
• VW 507 00: Low-ash oil compatible with diesel particulate filters (DPF), typically used for modern diesel engines and combined with VW 504 00 on many bottles; essential for protecting emissions systems.
• VW 502 00: Older but still widely used performance spec for gasoline engines; often seen in 5W-40 or 0W-40 oils; suitable for high-performance but not always for extended service intervals.
• VW 505 00: Conventional diesel spec for older, non–pump-injector diesels without DPFs; still relevant for some early A8 diesel variants in certain markets.
• VW 505 01: Diesel spec for “Pumpe-Düse” (unit injector) engines, demanding stronger wear protection for the camshaft and injection system.

Seeing these codes on the label is your best assurance that the oil has been tested for your engine type, especially in turbocharged or diesel A8s where incorrect oil can cause costly damage over time.

Viscosity Grades: 0W-30 vs 5W-30 vs 5W-40

Beyond the VW specification, you also need the correct viscosity grade, which reflects how thick the oil is at cold start and at normal operating temperature. Modern Audi A8 engines are designed for relatively thin, stable oils that flow quickly on start-up yet retain strength at high temperatures.

Common Viscosity Choices for the Audi A8

The following list outlines viscosity grades you’ll commonly see recommended for the Audi A8 and the conditions in which they are typically used.

• 0W-30: Frequently used in newer A8s (especially in colder climates and markets prioritizing fuel efficiency); excellent cold-start flow, compatible with many VW 504 00 / 507 00 oils.
• 5W-30: Very common all-round grade for both gasoline and diesel A8 engines; balances protection, efficiency, and suitability across a wide range of temperatures.
• 5W-40 or 0W-40: More common on older A8s (D2, D3) or high-performance engines where a slightly thicker hot-viscosity is advantageous; often associated with VW 502 00 / 505 00 oils.

Choosing between these grades usually depends on what Audi specifies for your engine and the climate where you drive; straying from the recommended range is not advisable without expert guidance.

How to Find the Correct Oil for Your Specific Audi A8

Because the Audi A8 has been produced across several generations, with multiple gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and performance variants, the only fully reliable way to identify the correct oil is to check documentation tied to your exact vehicle.

Key Steps to Confirming the Right Oil

The following steps help ensure that the oil you buy matches both Audi’s engineering requirements and any applicable warranty or extended service plan.

1. Check the owner’s manual: The lubrication section lists the exact VW oil specification and viscosity grades permitted for your engine and climate range.
2. Look under the hood or in the service booklet: Some A8s have labels or service documentation that explicitly state the required VW standard (e.g., “Use only VW 504 00 / 507 00 oil”).
3. Use your VIN on official Audi websites or dealer systems: Audi dealers and some online portals can decode your VIN and confirm the current recommended oil spec for your car.
4. Match the VW code on the oil container: When buying oil, ensure the bottle explicitly states the VW specification (e.g., “Approved VW 504 00 / 507 00”), not just “meets requirements of” without formal approval.
5. Factor in climate and driving style: Within the approved viscosity range, colder climates may favor 0W-xx oils, while very hot or heavy-use conditions may make a slightly higher hot-viscosity advisable, but only if allowed by Audi.

Following these steps helps you avoid generic or mis-labeled oils that lack the high-temperature stability and low-ash characteristics modern A8 engines require.

Brand Choices and Practical Recommendations

Audi’s factory-fill oils are often supplied by major European brands, but owners are free to use any brand that meets the correct VW specifications. The focus should always remain on the certification, not just the logo on the bottle.

Common Brands That Offer Audi-Approved Oils

The following brands frequently produce oils with official VW approvals suitable for the Audi A8, though availability varies by region and model year.

• Castrol: Long-standing Audi partner in many markets; offers several 0W-30 and 5W-30 oils with VW 504 00 / 507 00 approval.
• Mobil 1: High-performance synthetic lines often include VW 502 00, 504 00, and 507 00 approved products, particularly in 0W-40 and 5W-30 grades.
• Shell / Pennzoil: Provides VW-approved oils in Europe and North America; some products specifically marketed for VAG (VW–Audi Group) vehicles.
• Liqui Moly: Popular in Europe and among enthusiasts; carries multiple VW 504 00 / 507 00-approved oils and specialized high-mileage or cleaning formulations.
• Motul: Performance-focused brand with a range of VW-approved oils, favored by some tuners and drivers of S8 or high-output variants.

While these brands are widely trusted, A8 owners should always confirm that the exact product variant lists the required VW code and viscosity grade for their specific engine.

Service Intervals and Why the Right Oil Matters

Modern Audi A8s often run on “long-life” service intervals, sometimes up to 15,000–20,000 km (or about 10,000–12,000 miles) or two years under flexible service regimes, depending on market and use profile. These extended intervals are only safe if the correct long-life synthetic oil is used and driving conditions aren’t unusually severe.

Best Practices for Audi A8 Oil Maintenance

The following guidelines help keep the engine in optimal condition regardless of whether your A8 is brand new or well into high mileage.

• Follow the indicated service interval: Use the dashboard reminder as a baseline, but consider more frequent changes if you drive short trips, tow, or operate in dusty or very hot conditions.
• Use only fully synthetic, VW-approved oil: Especially for turbocharged and diesel engines, non-approved or semi-synthetic oils can lead to sludge, coking on turbo bearings, and increased wear.
• Change the oil filter with every oil change: Using quality filters (preferably OEM or recognized equivalents) ensures clean oil flow and proper pressure.
• Monitor oil level regularly: Some A8s have electronic dipsticks only; check via the infotainment system and top up with the same spec oil if the level drops.
• Keep receipts and records: Documenting the oil type, VW specification, and mileage helps maintain resale value and protects you if warranty or goodwill claims arise.

By treating oil as a critical component rather than a commodity, Audi A8 owners can significantly extend engine life, maintain performance, and avoid expensive mechanical and emissions-related repairs.

Summary

The Audi A8 uses fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific Volkswagen Group standards, most commonly VW 504 00 / 507 00 for modern models, with viscosity grades like 0W-30 or 5W-30 depending on engine and climate. Older generations often rely on VW 502 00 / 505 00 or 505 01 oils in 5W-40 or similar grades. For any individual A8, the definitive answer is in the owner’s manual, on service labels, or via an Audi dealer using your VIN. Matching the correct VW oil specification—not just the viscosity or brand—is essential to protect the A8’s advanced engines, support long service intervals, and preserve both performance and reliability over the life of the car.

What is Audi recommended engine oil?

Oil Viscosity Recommendations
SAE 5W-30: Ideal for a wide range of temperatures and common for most Audi engines.

What kind of oil does the Audi A8 take?

Castrol – Edge 5W-40 Full Synthetic Motor Oil, Maximizes Engine Performance, 5 Quart (Part No. 15B6FE)

What kind of oil does a 2017 Audi A8 4.0 T take?

9 – Liters Of German RAVENOL VMO 5w40 Motor Oil – OEM approved Audi oil quality standard 502 00 required for the Audi A8 4.0T engine.

What kind of oil does a 2019 Audi A8 take?

Notes: Full Synthetic. 0W-30.