What Oil Does the 2016 Audi Q5 Take?

The 2016 Audi Q5 typically uses full-synthetic engine oil that meets VW/Audi specification VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, most commonly in SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 viscosity, depending on the engine. In practical terms, that means a high-quality European-formulation synthetic oil from a reputable brand that explicitly lists the correct VW spec on the label.

Why the Right Oil Matters for the 2016 Audi Q5

The 2016 Audi Q5 is built with tight engine tolerances, turbocharged options, and long service intervals, all of which make oil choice more critical than in many non-luxury vehicles. Using oil that meets Audi’s official Volkswagen (VW) specifications is more important than just matching the viscosity number on the bottle. The correct oil helps prevent sludge, protects the turbocharger (where fitted), supports fuel economy, and ensures compliance with Audi’s service schedule.

Official Oil Specifications for the 2016 Audi Q5

Audi doesn’t merely recommend “synthetic 5W-40”; it requires engine oil that meets specific VW group standards. These specifications define properties such as resistance to breakdown at high temperatures, detergency, and compatibility with emissions systems.

Core Audi/VW Oil Specs to Look For

The following are the principal VW specifications relevant to a 2016 Audi Q5 sold in North America and Europe. Always verify against your owner’s manual or under-hood decal, as exact requirements can vary by engine code and market.

• VW 502 00 – High-performance gasoline engines; the most common spec for 2016 Q5 gasoline models in North America.
• VW 504 00 – Long-life, low-SAPS oil primarily used in Europe; compatible with many modern Audi gasoline engines and extended drain intervals.
• VW 505 01 / 507 00 – Typically for certain diesel engines; relevant if you have a TDI model in markets where it was offered.

When choosing oil, matching one of these approved specifications—especially VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 for gasoline engines—is more important than the brand name. If a product does not list an applicable VW/Audi spec, it should be avoided even if the viscosity looks correct.

Recommended Oil Types by Engine for the 2016 Audi Q5

The 2016 Q5 was sold with different engines by market: 2.0 TFSI (4-cylinder turbo), 3.0 TFSI (supercharged V6), and various diesels (like 2.0 TDI or 3.0 TDI) in some regions. The basic choice of oil spec is similar, but viscosity and fine details can differ.

2.0 TFSI Gasoline (Common in North America)

The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is highly sensitive to oil quality due to turbocharger temperatures and carbon buildup risks. It is usually paired with VW 502 00-approved oil in North American service literature.

• Required spec: VW 502 00 (VW 504 00 is also generally acceptable if stated by the oil maker and local Audi guidance).
• Common viscosity: SAE 5W-40 full synthetic (some regions allow 5W-30 if it meets the correct VW spec).
• Capacity (approximate): Around 4.9–5.0 liters (5.2–5.3 US quarts) including filter; confirm in the owner’s manual or under-hood sticker.

For a typical 2016 Q5 2.0 TFSI in North America, a VW 502 00–approved 5W-40 synthetic is the default, providing strong protection for the turbo and suitable performance across common temperature ranges.

3.0 TFSI Gasoline V6

The supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6 likewise requires high-spec synthetic oil to protect its forced-induction hardware and timing components.

• Required spec: VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, per regional guidance and manual.
• Common viscosity: SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 full synthetic, as long as the oil is VW 502 00/504 00 approved.
• Capacity (approximate): Around 6.7–7.0 liters (about 7.1–7.4 US quarts) including filter; always check your exact engine code.

The 3.0 TFSI is less prone to some issues seen on smaller turbos but still benefits significantly from oil that maintains viscosity and cleanliness over the full service interval.

Diesel Engines (TDI) in Other Markets

In Europe and some other regions, the 2016 Q5 was offered with TDI diesel engines, which generally require low-ash oils tailored for diesel particulate filters (DPFs).

• Likely specs: VW 507 00 for many modern TDI engines with DPFs; some older or specific engines may list VW 505 01.
• Common viscosity: 5W-30 low-SAPS full synthetic, explicitly marked VW 507 00.
• Capacity: Varies by displacement; typically in the 5–7 liter range with filter.

Because diesel emissions systems are sensitive to ash and sulfur, Q5 TDI owners should never substitute generic diesel oil; only VW 507 00 (or explicitly listed spec from the manual) should be used.

Viscosity: 5W-40 vs 5W-30 for the 2016 Q5

Viscosity describes how thick or thin oil is at cold and operating temperatures. For most 2016 Audi Q5 owners, the choice will be between VW-approved 5W-40 and 5W-30 oils, and the decision is guided by climate and Audi’s regional recommendations.

How to Choose the Right Viscosity

While both 5W-40 and 5W-30 can be correct, you should follow what’s specified on your oil-cap decal, owner’s manual, or local Audi dealer guidance. Certain markets default to 5W-40 for added high-temperature protection, while others prioritize 5W-30 for fuel economy.

• 5W-40 (VW 502 00): Often recommended in North America; slightly thicker when hot, offering robust protection for turbocharged engines and under high-load driving.
• 5W-30 (VW 504 00 or 507 00): Common in Europe and some long-life service settings; optimized for efficiency and modern emissions systems.
• Cold climate performance: Both “5W” oils flow well in moderate to cold climates; extremely cold regions may specify alternative viscosities per Audi charts, but 5W remains typical.

As long as the oil meets the correct VW spec, either 5W-40 or 5W-30 will protect the engine; the correct choice is the one aligned with Audi’s documentation for your specific engine and region.

Popular Examples of Compliant Oils

Many brands produce VW 502 00/504 00/507 00-approved oils suitable for the 2016 Q5. The key is to verify that the VW spec is listed on the product data sheet or label, not just “recommended for Audi.”

Brands and Product Lines That Typically Meet Audi/VW Specs

The following product families are well-known for carrying the appropriate VW approvals, but you must check the exact variant and label to confirm it meets VW 502 00, 504 00, or 507 00.

• Castrol Edge / Castrol Edge Euro – Many 5W-40 and 5W-30 “Euro” labeled variants list VW 502 00 / 504 00 / 507 00 approvals.
• Mobil 1 ESP / Mobil 1 European Car Formula – Select 5W-40 and 5W-30 versions carry VW 502 00 and VW 504 00/507 00 approvals.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec / Synthoil / Leichtlauf – German-made oils with clearly documented VW approvals, widely used by Audi specialists.
• Motul Specific / Motul 8100 X-cess/X-clean – Performance-focused oils with dedicated VW/Audi formulations.
• OEM-branded oil – Oil sold by Audi/VW dealers is typically labeled with the proper VW spec and is always safe from a compatibility standpoint.

While these brands are common choices, there is no requirement to use Audi-branded oil; any oil that is genuinely certified to the correct VW spec is acceptable and will maintain warranty compliance where applicable.

Service Intervals and Practical Maintenance Tips

Beyond choosing the right oil, how often you change it and how you maintain the system significantly affect engine longevity. Audi’s published service intervals assume ideal conditions that many drivers do not consistently experience.

How Often to Change Oil in a 2016 Audi Q5

Audi commonly specifies oil change intervals up to around 10,000 miles (or 15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for many 2016 Q5 models using the correct long-life oil. Real-world usage, however, may justify more frequent changes.

• Normal use: Follow the factory 10,000-mile/15,000-km or annual interval if you do mostly highway driving and use compliant oil.
• Severe use (short trips, heavy city traffic, towing, extreme heat or cold): Many independent Audi specialists recommend 5,000–7,500-mile (8,000–12,000-km) intervals for added protection.
• Oil level checks: The Q5 often relies on electronic monitoring; check levels periodically, especially on higher-mileage or turbo engines that may consume some oil.

Adopting slightly shorter intervals than the official maximum can help reduce sludge formation, protect timing components, and extend the life of turbochargers and other critical parts.

How to Confirm the Exact Requirement for Your Q5

Because trims, engines, and regional specifications vary, two 2016 Q5s may not share the exact same oil recommendation. Verifying for your specific VIN and market avoids guesswork.

Steps to Verify the Correct Oil for Your Vehicle

A few simple checks can confirm the precise spec and viscosity Audi expects for your particular Q5, ensuring both protection and compliance.

1. Consult the owner’s manual: Look for the “Engine Oil” section, which will list VW specifications (e.g., VW 502 00) and acceptable viscosities.
2. Check the oil filler cap and under-hood labels: Some Q5s have the spec or viscosity printed on or near the cap.
3. Use the VIN at an Audi dealer: A service advisor can pull the official factory recommendation for your exact engine code and region.
4. Cross-check online catalogs: Major oil manufacturers offer lookup tools by make/model/year; confirm that the recommended oil lists the VW spec, not just “for European vehicles.”

By confirming through at least one official or manufacturer-backed source, you ensure that your chosen oil meets the precise requirements for your particular 2016 Audi Q5 variant.

Summary

The 2016 Audi Q5 is designed to run on full-synthetic oil that meets specific VW/Audi standards, most commonly VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 for gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for diesel variants. In everyday terms, that usually means a high-quality European-formulation 5W-40 or 5W-30 synthetic from a reputable brand, with the VW spec printed clearly on the label. While Audi often allows up to 10,000-mile (15,000-km) intervals, many owners and specialists opt for somewhat shorter intervals to better protect turbocharged and high-performance engines. Checking your owner’s manual, oil-cap markings, or consulting an Audi dealer with your VIN will confirm the exact specification and viscosity required for your specific 2016 Q5.

What type of oil does a 2016 Audi Q5 take?

The 2016 Audi Q5 requires a full synthetic motor oil with a viscosity of 5W-30 for most gasoline engines, but some engines may also use 5W-40 or 0W-40. It is crucial to use oil that meets the Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standards, such as VW 507.00 for the 3.0L TDI diesel engine. Always consult your owner’s manual to confirm the specific requirements for your engine. 
Key specifications

• Viscosity: Primarily 5W-30, but 5W-40 and 0W-40 are also used depending on the engine. 
• Type: Full synthetic motor oil. 
• Quality standard: Must meet the specific Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standard for your engine (e.g., VW 507.00 for the 3.0L TDI diesel engine). 
• Capacity: Around 6.8 to 7.2 quarts with a filter, depending on the engine. 
• Drain plug torque: 22 ft/lbs. 

What kind of oil does a 2016 Audi take?

The 2016 Audi oil type depends on the engine, but common requirements are full synthetic oil with a viscosity of 5W-40, 5W-30, or 0W-40, and it must meet a specific Audi/Volkswagen oil specification like VW 502 00 for most gasoline engines or VW 507 00 for TDI (diesel) engines. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact specification and viscosity grade recommended for your specific model and climate. 
Key takeaways

• Always use full synthetic oil: Modern Audis require full synthetic oil for proper protection, engine cleanliness, and longer drain intervals. 
• Check the owner’s manual: The owner’s manual is the definitive source for the correct viscosity grade and VW specification. 
• Common viscosity grades:
  • 5W-40: Often recommended for high-performance S and RS models, and can be suitable for both gasoline and diesel engines. 
  • 5W-30: Best for moderate climates, balancing fuel efficiency and wear protection. 
  • 0W-40: Ideal for colder climates due to better cold-start protection. 
• Common VW specifications:
  • VW 502 00: A common specification for older gasoline engines. 
  • VW 504 00: Often required for modern direct-injection and turbocharged gasoline engines. 
  • VW 507 00: The specification for Audi TDI (diesel) engines. 
• Verification: Ensure the oil you purchase has the correct VW specification listed on the bottle, in addition to meeting the correct viscosity grade. 

Can I use 5W-30 in my Audi?

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.

What type of oil is best for Audi Q5?

The best oil for an Audi Q5 depends on the specific model year, but generally, a full synthetic oil with a 0W-40, 5W-30, or 5W-40 viscosity is recommended. Always confirm the exact specification (e.g., VW 502.00) required in your owner’s manual and choose a reputable brand like Mobil 1, Castrol, or Liqui Moly that meets those specifications.
 
Oil type and viscosity

• Full synthetic oil: This is the standard for modern Audi Q5 models due to its superior performance and protection. 
• Viscosity: Common recommendations are 0W-40, 5W-30, or 5W-40. Check your owner’s manual for the exact grade for your model year and climate. 
• Check the cap: The oil filler cap on your engine may also list the correct viscosity. 

Recommended brands and specifications

• Castrol: Often recommended by Audi and used in dealerships. Castrol Edge 5W-40 is a popular choice. 
• Mobil 1: Another top-tier option, with ESP Formula 5W-30 being specifically approved for certain Audi standards. 
• Liqui Moly: A highly regarded German-engineered oil, including Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40, is frequently recommended by Audi owners. 
• Specific VW/Audi specifications: Many high-quality oils will have a specific approval code, such as VW 502.00 or VW 504.00/507.00. Choosing an oil that meets the specific specification listed in your owner’s manual is the most important factor. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most critical step to ensure you use the correct oil for your specific vehicle and climate. 
• Oil capacity: Be aware that the Q5’s oil capacity varies by model year, typically ranging from about 5 to 5.5 quarts for the 4-cylinder engine. Add about five quarts initially, then check the level before adding more to avoid overfilling. 
• Oil consumption: Some Audi models with the 2.0T engine may consume oil. Using the correct oil and performing more frequent interim oil changes can help mitigate potential issues.