What Oil Does the Audi Q3 Take?

The Audi Q3 generally takes fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW 504 00 / 507 00 or VW 508 00 / 509 00 specifications, most commonly 0W-20 or 5W-30, depending on model year, engine, and market. However, owners should always confirm the exact oil grade and VW spec in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the under‑hood label, as Audi’s requirements differ by engine generation and region.

Why the Correct Oil Matters for the Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 uses turbocharged, high-efficiency engines that place specific demands on engine oil. Choosing the right oil is not just about viscosity (like 0W-20 or 5W-30) but also about whether the oil meets the required Volkswagen Group (VW) standards for wear protection, turbocharger compatibility, low ash content, and long-life service intervals. Using the wrong oil can lead to increased wear, higher emissions, or even warranty issues.

Key Oil Specifications for the Audi Q3

Before selecting a particular brand or weight of oil, it’s crucial to understand the VW specifications Audi requires for different Q3 engines and model years. These internal standards ensure the oil is suitable for the car’s design and service intervals.

• VW 504 00 / 507 00: Long-life, low-SAPS (low ash) fully synthetic oil used for many European VW/Audi petrol and diesel engines, including many earlier Q3 models.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00: Newer ultra-low viscosity oils (typically 0W-20) developed for the latest generation VW/Audi petrol and diesel engines to improve fuel economy and reduce CO₂ emissions.
• Region-specific variants: In North America and some other markets, Audi still frequently lists VW 502 00 for certain older gasoline engines, but most modern Audi Q3 engines prefer 504 00 / 507 00 or 508 00 / 509 00.

These specifications are printed on high-quality oil containers and should be matched exactly; meeting the VW standard matters more than the brand name as long as the oil is fully synthetic and the viscosity and spec are correct.

Common Oil Grades by Audi Q3 Generation

Different Audi Q3 generations and engines favor slightly different viscosities. The following breakdown reflects typical factory recommendations as of late 2024, but owners should still verify their engine code and market-specific guidance.

First-Generation Audi Q3 (Approx. 2011–2018, pre-Q3 “F3” facelift)

First-generation Q3 models, especially in Europe and many international markets, use turbocharged TFSI (petrol) and TDI (diesel) engines that typically call for VW 504 00 / 507 00 oil in a mid-range viscosity.

The list below outlines the most commonly recommended oils for first-generation Audi Q3 engines, by fuel type.

• Petrol (TFSI) engines (e.g., 1.4 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI): Fully synthetic 5W-30 oil meeting VW 504 00 / 507 00 is commonly specified.
• Diesel (TDI) engines (e.g., 2.0 TDI): Fully synthetic 5W-30 oil meeting VW 504 00 / 507 00 is also the standard recommendation.
• Cold climates: In very cold regions, a 0W-30 that meets VW 504 00 / 507 00 may be permitted to improve cold-start performance, if explicitly allowed in the owner’s manual.
• Older/alternative spec (some markets): Certain early Q3 petrol engines in North America may list VW 502 00 with 5W-40 for fixed (non–long-life) service intervals.

Across these first-generation models, most owners will be adequately served by a high-quality 5W-30, VW 504 00 / 507 00 oil, unless their local manual specifically notes 502 00 / 505 00 for older engines or short-interval servicing.

Second-Generation Audi Q3 (2019–Present, incl. Sportback)

The second-generation Q3 (often referred to as the “F3” model) introduced more aggressive efficiency targets and newer engine families. As a result, lighter oils and the newer VW 508 00 / 509 00 standard have become more common, particularly on gasoline engines.

The following list describes typical oil requirements for second-generation Q3 engines by fuel and engine type, based on widely documented Audi guidance up to late 2024.

• Newer petrol TFSI engines (e.g., 1.5 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI in many markets):
  Use fully synthetic 0W-20 oil that meets VW 508 00 / 509 00. This is now the default in many regions for Q3 models with long-life service intervals.
• Certain petrol engines (some markets / early second-gen):
  May still specify fully synthetic 5W-30 oil meeting VW 504 00 / 507 00, particularly where ultra-low viscosity 0W-20 oils were not yet widely approved at launch.
• Diesel (TDI) engines:
  Often continue to require 5W-30 fully synthetic oil meeting VW 504 00 / 507 00, although some later diesel units may allow 0W-30 or 0W-20 under VW 508 00 / 509 00 if explicitly stated.
• Performance-oriented variants (where available):
  In some performance engines, Audi may still list 0W-30 or 5W-30 under VW 504 00 / 507 00 instead of 0W-20, to balance efficiency with high-load protection.

For most second-generation Q3s, especially gasoline models built from the early 2020s onward, 0W-20 VW 508 00 / 509 00 is now the predominant recommendation, though diesel and certain regional variants continue to rely on 504 00 / 507 00 oils.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific Q3

Because the Audi Q3 lineup spans different regions, engines, and years, there is no single oil that suits every vehicle. Drivers should always confirm their exact requirements using multiple official sources rather than relying on generic advice.

The following steps outline a practical way for owners to verify the correct oil, even if they do not know their engine code offhand.

1. Check the owner’s manual:
   Look up the “Engine Oil” or “Specifications” section, which will list the required VW standard (e.g., 504 00 / 507 00 or 508 00 / 509 00) and the approved viscosity grades (e.g., 0W-20, 5W-30).
2. Look under the hood or fuel filler cap:
   Many Q3s have an oil-specification sticker near the engine bay or in the fuel door, noting the VW oil standard you must use.
3. Use your VIN with an Audi dealer:
   Provide the Vehicle Identification Number to an Audi service center; they can look up the exact engine code and oil requirement in their system.
4. Use reputable online catalogues:
   Major oil brands (e.g., Castrol, Mobil 1, Shell, Liqui Moly) maintain online “oil finder” tools where you input make, model, year, and sometimes engine type to get oils that meet Audi/VW specs.
5. Prioritize VW spec over viscosity when choosing brands:
   If several brands offer a 0W-20 or 5W-30, always select one that explicitly states VW 504 00 / 507 00 or VW 508 00 / 509 00, whichever your Audi requires.

By confirming the VW standard and recommended viscosity through these channels, owners can confidently choose an appropriate oil rather than relying on approximate or generalized recommendations.

Popular Oil Types and Brands That Meet Audi Q3 Requirements

Multiple major oil manufacturers produce fully synthetic oils that conform to Audi’s VW standards. While brand preference is often personal or regional, what matters most is that the oil explicitly carries the correct VW approval, not just “recommended for” wording.

The following list gives examples of commonly used, widely available oils that typically meet Audi Q3 specs, though individual product lines occasionally change formulations and approvals.

• For VW 504 00 / 507 00 (often 5W-30):
  Many oils marketed specifically for “VW 504 00 / 507 00” or “LongLife III” such as:
  

  • Castrol EDGE or Castrol EDGE Professional LL 5W-30 (VW 504 00 / 507 00)
  • Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 (VW 504 00 / 507 00)
  • Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV-L 5W-30 (VW 504 00 / 507 00)
  • Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30 (VW 504 00 / 507 00)

• For VW 508 00 / 509 00 (typically 0W-20):
  Oils designed for the newest VW/Audi engines, often labeled “LongLife IV” or similar:
  

  • Castrol EDGE Professional LL IV FE 0W-20 (VW 508 00 / 509 00)
  • Mobil 1 ESP x2 0W-20 (VW 508 00 / 509 00 in certain markets)
  • Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV-L 0W-20 (check for 508 00 / 509 00 approval)
  • Liqui Moly Special Tec V 0W-20 (VW 508 00 / 509 00)

• For older 502 00 / 505 00 specs (where still applicable):
  Some oils for legacy VW/Audi engines:
  

  • Castrol EDGE 5W-40 or 0W-40 (VW 502 00 / 505 00)
  • Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 (VW 502 00 / 505 00)

These products are examples, not endorsements; formulations and approvals can change, so owners should always check the label or manufacturer documentation to confirm that the particular bottle they buy still carries the correct VW approval.

Oil Change Intervals and Service Considerations

Oil specification and change intervals are closely linked in Audi’s maintenance strategy. Many Q3 models support flexible “LongLife” service intervals, but only when the correct long-life oil is used and the car’s onboard monitoring system is active.

The following points summarize how oil type influences maintenance schedules and what Q3 owners should monitor between services.

• LongLife service (variable intervals):
  When using VW 504 00 / 507 00 or VW 508 00 / 509 00 oils with the flexible service setting enabled, the Q3 can often go up to around 30,000 km or 2 years (or about 10,000–20,000 miles depending on region and driving conditions) between oil changes, as indicated by the service reminder.
• Fixed service (time/mileage-based):
  In some markets or for older engines, Audi specifies shorter, fixed intervals (commonly 15,000 km / 1 year, or around 10,000 miles / 1 year) even if a long-life oil is used, especially in harsh climates or severe driving conditions.
• Driving style and conditions:
  Frequent short trips, heavy city traffic, towing, or very hot/cold climates can justify shorter intervals, even when using the correct oil, because contaminants and fuel dilution build up faster.
• Oil level checks:
  Many Q3s use electronic oil-level monitoring, but drivers are still advised to check oil regularly (via MMI display or dipstick where fitted) and top up with the same specification and viscosity if necessary.
• Warranty and documentation:
  Keeping receipts that show the oil’s VW approval can be important for warranty claims or for proving proper maintenance when selling the car.

Following Audi’s recommended interval, while keeping an eye on oil level and quality, helps protect the turbocharged engine and maintain efficiency, especially when using lighter 0W-20 oils that are more sensitive to contamination.

What Happens If the Wrong Oil Is Used?

Using oil that does not meet the correct VW spec or viscosity can have both short- and long-term consequences. While a one-time emergency top-up with a compatible but non-approved oil is usually not catastrophic, repeated or full-fill use of incorrect oil can harm the engine and emissions systems.

The following list outlines the main risks Q3 owners face when incorrect oil is used over time.

• Increased engine wear:
  Oils that do not meet VW’s standards may lack the right blend of additives for high-temperature stability and shear resistance, especially important for turbocharged engines.
• Turbocharger issues:
  Inadequate lubrication or high-temperature coking can damage the turbocharger bearings and seals, potentially leading to expensive repairs.
• DPF and catalytic converter problems (especially diesels):
  Non–low SAPS oils can leave more ash, which clogs diesel particulate filters and can adversely affect emissions systems.
• Poor fuel economy and drivability:
  Using a much thicker oil than specified (e.g., heavy 10W-40 instead of 0W-20 or 5W-30) can increase friction, reduce efficiency, and affect cold starts.
• Potential warranty disputes:
  If a major engine issue arises and service records show oils outside the approved VW specs, manufacturers may question warranty coverage.

While occasional minor deviations or emergency top-ups are usually manageable, consistently adhering to the specified VW oil standard is the best way to avoid these risks and safeguard the Q3’s long-term reliability.

Regional Variations and Market-Specific Notes

Because the Audi Q3 is sold in Europe, North America, Asia, and other regions, recommendations can vary slightly due to local fuel quality, emissions laws, and climate. Owners should therefore treat global guidance as a baseline and prioritize their local documentation.

The following points describe regional nuances that often affect the official oil advice for Q3 models.

• Europe and many international markets:
  More widespread use of VW 504 00 / 507 00 and VW 508 00 / 509 00 long-life oils, with flexible (“LongLife”) service intervals and strong emphasis on high-efficiency 0W-20 in newer petrol engines.
• North America:
  Some Q3 engines (particularly earlier models) have used VW 502 00 / 505 00 approvals with 5W-40 or 5W-30 oils and shorter, fixed service intervals, although newer imports align more with VW 504 00 / 507 00 and 508 00 / 509 00 standards.
• Hot-climate countries (Middle East, parts of Asia, Africa):
  Local Audi guidance may allow or prefer slightly higher viscosity grades (e.g., 5W-40 under VW 502 00 / 505 00) for older engines, though modern Q3s still often lean towards 5W-30 or 0W-20 if the engine is designed for it.
• Dealer-branded oils:
  Audi dealers commonly use co-branded oils (often with Castrol, Shell or others), but independent workshops can supply equivalent oils as long as the VW approval is identical.

Because of these regional differences, the safest approach is to treat the VW standard as mandatory and then allow local guidance to refine the viscosity choice appropriate for the local climate and driving conditions.

Practical Takeaways for Audi Q3 Owners

For daily owners, the oil question can be distilled into a few simple rules: know your VW spec, pick the correct viscosity, and stick to fully synthetic, reputable products. This approach simplifies maintenance and avoids confusion caused by marketing or generic advice.

The points below summarize the most actionable steps for someone responsible for maintaining an Audi Q3.

• Identify your Q3’s model year and engine type:
  This clarifies whether you are dealing with a first-generation (roughly pre-2018) or second-generation (2019–present) Q3 and whether you have a petrol TFSI or diesel TDI engine.
• Locate the VW oil specification:
  Use the owner’s manual, engine-bay sticker, or a dealer query to determine if you need VW 504 00 / 507 00, 508 00 / 509 00, or (for some older engines) 502 00 / 505 00.
• Match viscosity to spec and climate:
  For many older Q3s this will be 5W-30 (504/507), while many newer petrol Q3s now use 0W-20 (508/509). Only deviate if Audi’s local guidance explicitly allows alternatives.
• Use fully synthetic oils from reputable brands:
  Ensure the exact VW approval is printed on the bottle; do not rely solely on “suitable for VW/Audi” or similar non-official wording.
• Maintain proper service intervals:
  Follow the service indicator or local Audi schedule and check oil level between services, using the same VW-approved oil for any top-ups.

Following these practical guidelines allows Audi Q3 owners to select the correct oil confidently, preserving both performance and long-term engine health without needing to become lubrication experts.

Summary

The Audi Q3 is designed to run on fully synthetic oil that meets specific Volkswagen Group standards. Most first-generation Q3 models (both petrol and diesel) use 5W-30 oil meeting VW 504 00 / 507 00, while many second-generation petrol Q3s now require 0W-20 oil approved under VW 508 00 / 509 00, with some engines and regions still using 5W-30 under VW 504 00 / 507 00. Because requirements differ by model year, engine, and market, the only definitive answer for any given Q3 is found in the owner’s manual, under-hood label, or dealer database. Matching the specified VW standard and viscosity—and changing oil at the recommended intervals—is essential to protecting the Q3’s turbocharged engine, ensuring reliability, and maintaining fuel efficiency.

What oil does an Audi Q3 take?

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

What is Audi recommended engine oil?

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 kind of oil does a 2016 Audi Q3 take?

For a 2016 Audi Q3, use full synthetic 5W-40 or 5W-30 oil that meets VW 502 00 standards. The engine requires approximately 4.8 quarts of oil with a filter change. Using the correct viscosity and standards is crucial for proper engine lubrication and performance. 

• Oil Type: Full synthetic
• Viscosity: 5W−405 cap W minus 405𝑊−40 or 5W−305 cap W minus 305𝑊−30
• Standards: VW 502 00
• Capacity: Approximately 4.8 quarts (with filter)
• Additional Information: Check your owner’s manual for the most specific recommendations and consider replacing the drain plug seal with each oil change.

What kind of oil does a 2015 Audi Q3 take?

The 2015 Audi Q3 uses a full synthetic oil, typically 5W-40 or 5W-30, that meets the VW 502 00 oil specification. You should choose the viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-40 or 5W-30) based on your climate, and always ensure the oil is full synthetic and meets the Audi/VW standard. 

• Oil type: Full synthetic engine oil is required for the 2.0L gasoline engine. 
• Viscosity grade: Common options are 5W-40 or 5W-30, depending on your climate. 
  • For colder climates: Consider 0W-30 or 0W-40. 
  • For moderate to warm climates: 5W-30 or 5W-40 are suitable. 
• Specification: The oil must meet or exceed the VW 502 00 oil quality standard. 
• Capacity: The vehicle holds approximately 4.9 quarts of oil with a filter change.