What Oil Does a 2015 Audi A7 Use?
The 2015 Audi A7 is designed to run on high‑quality fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 specifications, most commonly 5W‑40 or 5W‑30 in North America and Europe, with the exact grade depending on engine variant and climate. Choosing oil that matches Audi/VW approvals is more important than the brand name, and using the correct specification protects the engine, turbocharger, and emissions system.
Contents
Official Specifications for the 2015 Audi A7
The 2015 A7 lineup includes several engines (primarily 3.0 TFSI gasoline and 3.0 TDI diesel in most markets). Audi and Volkswagen define oil requirements not just by viscosity, but by very specific VW approval codes. These must be printed on the oil label to be considered suitable.
Core Oil Standards You Should Follow
The following list describes the critical factory specifications and how they apply to a 2015 Audi A7. These approvals are more precise than generic “meets or exceeds” marketing claims.
- VW 502 00 — Primary specification for high‑performance gasoline engines (such as the 3.0 TFSI) in North America and many other regions. Designed for fixed or “normal” oil change intervals.
- VW 504 00 — Long‑life low‑ash oil for newer gasoline engines, often used in Europe where extended service intervals and stricter emissions standards apply.
- VW 505 00 / 507 00 — Diesel‑engine specifications commonly used in 3.0 TDI variants, especially in Europe and some other markets. VW 507 00 is a low‑SAPS long‑life oil essential for protecting diesel particulate filters (DPF).
- ACEA A3/B4 or C3 (Europe/International) — European industry classifications that many VW‑approved oils also meet; C3 is particularly relevant for engines with advanced emissions systems.
- API SN, SP (North America) — US‑based standards that many VW‑approved oils satisfy; these are additional quality markers but cannot replace VW approval codes.
In practice, you should always choose a fully synthetic oil that explicitly lists the required VW 502 00, 504 00, 505 00 or 507 00 approval on the back label, matching your specific engine and region.
Recommended Viscosity Grades for the 2015 Audi A7
While OEM oil quality standards are fixed, viscosity can vary slightly with climate and engine type. Audi’s owner’s manual and service bulletins remain the primary reference, but the following guidance reflects common recommendations for the 2015 A7 as of 2024.
Typical Choices for Gasoline (3.0 TFSI) Engines
The next list summarizes the most commonly recommended viscosities for the popular supercharged 3.0 TFSI V6 engine used in many 2015 A7 models.
- 5W‑40 fully synthetic (VW 502 00) — Widely used in North America and many moderate climates. Offers robust high‑temperature protection and strong film strength for turbo/supercharged gasoline engines.
- 5W‑30 fully synthetic (VW 504 00 or 502 00) — Common in Europe and regions with Audi long‑life service schedules. Slightly lower viscosity at operating temperature can improve efficiency while still protecting the engine if the oil carries the correct VW approval.
- 0W‑40 fully synthetic (VW 502 00) — Sometimes chosen in very cold climates for improved cold‑start flow while maintaining 40‑weight protection at operating temperature.
Any of these viscosities can be suitable if the oil is fully synthetic and has the proper Audi/VW approval. The exact grade should reflect your climate and whether your car follows fixed or long‑life intervals.
Typical Choices for Diesel (3.0 TDI) Engines
Diesel A7 models, where sold, require oils that protect both the engine and the diesel particulate filter system. The list below explains the common viscosities used.
- 5W‑30 fully synthetic (VW 507 00) — Standard for many modern Audi/VW diesels with DPF. Low‑SAPS formulation prevents ash buildup in the particulate filter.
- 5W‑40 fully synthetic (VW 505 01 or 507 00, where approved) — Sometimes applied in hotter climates or specific markets; always verify against your owner’s manual since DPF‑equipped engines are sensitive to incorrect oils.
For diesel variants, it is especially important not to substitute non‑approved oils, as the wrong formulation can damage emissions components and lead to costly repairs.
Capacity and Change Interval Considerations
Apart from the type of oil, owners should be aware of how much oil the engine requires and how often it should be changed. These factors influence which oil grade and specification will perform best over time.
Engine Oil Capacity
This list outlines approximate oil capacities (including filter) for common 2015 Audi A7 engines; variations exist by code and market, so always confirm with your manual or a dealer.
- 3.0 TFSI V6 gasoline — Roughly 6.9 to 7.2 liters (about 7.3 to 7.6 US quarts), depending on engine code and exact configuration.
- 3.0 TDI V6 diesel — Typically in the 6.5 to 7.0 liter range (about 6.9 to 7.4 US quarts), again varying slightly by engine code and emissions hardware.
Because capacities are close to 7 liters, having an extra liter or quart on hand can be useful for top‑offs between services, especially if your engine consumes a small amount of oil, which is considered normal by Audi.
Oil Change Intervals
The following list summarizes typical interval strategies in different regions and usage conditions. Real‑world best practice can differ from maximum factory intervals, especially as the car ages.
- North America (fixed intervals) — Commonly 10,000 miles (about 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using VW 502 00 oil. Many specialists recommend 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or once a year for older vehicles or heavy city driving.
- Europe and some other regions (long‑life intervals) — Up to 30,000 km (about 18,600 miles) or 2 years with VW 504 00 / 507 00 long‑life oils, depending on driving style and flexible service indicator readings.
- Severe use (any region) — Shorter intervals (6,000–8,000 miles / 10,000–13,000 km) are advisable for frequent short trips, heavy stop‑and‑go driving, very dusty environments, or aggressive driving.
As a 2015 car now operates well beyond its initial warranty period, conservative oil change intervals with approved fully synthetic oil can significantly extend engine and turbocharger life.
Choosing a Brand: Examples That Meet Audi Requirements
Many reputable oil manufacturers produce products that meet Audi/VW standards. The brand is less critical than the presence of the correct approval code, but examples help owners identify suitable options on shelves or online.
Commonly Available VW‑Approved Oils
The following list highlights popular product lines that, in their correct variants, carry VW 502 00, 504 00 or 507 00 approvals. Always verify the exact product label, as not every viscosity in a family is approved.
- Castrol EDGE / EDGE Professional — Variants such as 5W‑40 and 5W‑30 with VW 502 00/504 00 approvals, often recommended or sold by Audi dealers in various markets.
- Mobil 1 — Products like Mobil 1 ESP 5W‑30 or 0W‑40 that carry VW 502 00/504 00/507 00 approvals, widely stocked globally.
- Motul 8100 series — For example, Motul 8100 X‑cess or X‑clean versions specifically labeled with VW 502 00, 504 00 or 507 00 approvals.
- Liqui Moly — Oils such as Top Tec 4200, 4600, or Leichtlauf High Tech varieties that state VW 502 00/504 00/507 00 on the container.
- Shell Helix Ultra / Pennzoil Platinum (market dependent) — Some formulas feature official VW approvals and are often marketed as OEM‑compatible for European vehicles.
Regardless of the brand chosen, the crucial step is locating the VW specification code on the rear label and ensuring that it matches the requirements for your specific engine and market.
How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific A7
The 2015 A7 range includes multiple engine options, and some regions have different service strategies. For the most precise recommendation, you should cross‑check several sources tied directly to your vehicle.
Steps to Verify Compatibility
The following list lays out practical actions any owner can take to ensure the oil used is fully correct for their particular 2015 A7.
- Check the owner’s manual — Look under the “Engine oil” section for VW specs (e.g., VW 502 00, 504 00, 507 00) and viscosity guidance suitable for your climate.
- Confirm engine code — Identify the engine code (for example, on the vehicle data sticker or through a dealer) to verify the exact capacity and any engine‑specific requirements.
- Consult dealer or specialist — An Audi dealer or reputable independent Audi/VW specialist can advise on the most appropriate oil for local fuel, climate and typical usage.
- Match the VW approval on the bottle — Only use oils where the correct VW spec appears as an official approval, not just “suitable for” wording.
- Factor in age and mileage — For older or high‑mileage 2015 A7s, many technicians prefer slightly shorter intervals and sometimes a 5W‑40 over 5W‑30 for additional high‑temperature protection, provided it carries the right approval.
By systematically checking these points, owners can move beyond generic advice and ensure the oil choice is tailored to their specific A7, usage pattern and environment.
Summary
A 2015 Audi A7 should run on fully synthetic engine oil that carries the appropriate VW approval code, most commonly VW 502 00 or 504 00 for the 3.0 TFSI gasoline engine and VW 507 00 for 3.0 TDI diesels. Typical viscosities are 5W‑40 or 5W‑30, adjusted for climate and service interval strategy. Exact capacity is around 7 liters including the filter, and change intervals generally range from 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months in North America to longer flexible intervals in Europe when using long‑life oils. The safest approach is to confirm requirements in the owner’s manual, match them against the VW spec printed on the oil bottle, and err on the side of conservative service intervals as the vehicle ages.
What kind of oil goes in a 2015 Audi A7?
2015: For 2015 Audi A7 models, 0W-40 improves cold-start performance. 2016-2018: The recommended oil types for Audi A7s from 2016 to 2018 are 0W-30 and, occasionally, 5W-40, which are adaptable to colder climates.
Can I use 5W-30 in my Audi?
The recommended oil type is 5w-40 synthetic. While 5w-30 can work in a pinch, it’s best to use 5w-40 if you have it available. Yes, using Mobile One is perfectly acceptable.
What kind of oil does a 2015 Audi take?
For a 2015 Audi, you should use full synthetic motor oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification. The specific viscosity depends on your model and climate, with common options being 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Recommended oil type
- Type: Full synthetic motor oil
- Specification: VW 502 00 (for most gasoline engines)
- Viscosity: Common choices are 5W-30 or 5W-40, but always check your owner’s manual for the exact recommendation for your engine and climate. For high-performance models, 5W-40 is often recommended.
Important considerations
- Do not use conventional oil: Audi requires synthetic oil to protect turbocharged engines and ensure longevity.
- Verify the specification: Always ensure the oil you purchase explicitly states that it meets the VW 502 00 specification, along with the correct viscosity for your vehicle.
- Consult your owner’s manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will have the most accurate information regarding the specific oil type and quantity for your model.
What oil does the Audi A7 use?
The correct Audi A7 oil type depends on the model year and engine. For newer gasoline models (2019+), use 0W-20 full synthetic oil meeting the VW 508 00 specification. For older gasoline engines (2012-2018 3.0T), 5W-40 is often recommended with the VW 502 00 spec, while newer models might use 0W-30 or 5W-40, and diesel models (2014-2016 3.0L TDI) require oil meeting the VW 507 00 spec. Always confirm the specific requirement for your vehicle’s year and engine.
Common Audi A7 oil types by engine
- 2019 and newer 3.0T (gasoline): Use a full synthetic 0W-20 oil that meets the VW 508 00 specification.
- 2012–2018 3.0T (gasoline): Many models use 5W-40 full synthetic oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification. Some model years also recommend 0W-30 or 0W-40.
- 2014–2016 3.0L TDI (diesel): Requires oil that meets the VW 507 00 specification.
Important considerations
- Verify your vehicle’s specific requirements: Always check your owner’s manual or the label under the hood for the exact oil viscosity and specification recommended by Audi for your particular model year and engine.
- Synthetic oil is often required: Many Audi models require or recommend full synthetic oil for optimal performance and protection.
- European specifications: Look for the specific Volkswagen (VW) oil quality standard on the oil container, such as VW 508 00 or VW 507 00, as these are critical for meeting Audi’s engineering requirements.


