What Oil Goes in an Audi A4 Quattro?

An Audi A4 quattro typically requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific Audi/VW standards—most commonly VW 502 00 or the newer VW 504 00—at a viscosity such as 0W‑20, 5W‑30 or 5W‑40, depending on model year, engine code and regional climate. Owners should always confirm the exact oil spec and viscosity in the owner’s manual or via an Audi dealer, because using the wrong oil can affect performance, fuel economy and warranty coverage.

Why the Correct Oil Matters for an Audi A4 Quattro

The Audi A4 quattro’s turbocharged engines and all-wheel-drive setup work under high thermal and mechanical loads, making oil choice more critical than in many non‑turbo, front‑wheel‑drive cars. Proper oil ensures adequate lubrication of the turbocharger, maintains fuel efficiency, reduces engine wear, and supports long service intervals specified by Audi. Beyond viscosity, adherence to Audi/VW approval standards is the decisive factor.

Key Oil Specifications for Audi A4 Quattro

Most owners focus on viscosity numbers printed in large type on the oil bottle, but the most important detail for an Audi A4 quattro is the VW/Audi approval code printed in smaller text on the back label. These codes indicate the oil has passed manufacturer tests for high-temperature stability, deposit control and compatibility with emission systems.

Core VW/Audi Oil Standards

The following list outlines the main VW oil standards commonly relevant to Audi A4 quattro models sold in North America and Europe over the past 15–20 years, and how they generally apply.

• VW 502 00 – High‑performance gasoline engine oil approval used for many Audi A4 petrol engines up to the mid‑2010s and still accepted on many current models for fixed (non‑long‑life) service intervals. Typically in 0W‑30, 5W‑30, or 5W‑40 grades.
• VW 504 00 – Newer “longlife” gasoline approval for extended oil change intervals (where supported) and low‑ash formulation compatible with modern emissions systems. Usually in 0W‑20, 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 viscosity. Common on newer A4s with flexible service intervals.
• VW 505 00 / 505 01 – Older diesel approvals, relevant mainly for early B6/B7‑generation A4 TDI models in some markets. 505 01 was required for specific pumpe‑düse (PD) diesel engines.
• VW 507 00 – Low‑SAPs (low ash) longlife diesel oil primarily for modern A4 TDI engines equipped with diesel particulate filters (DPFs). Frequently 5W‑30.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00 – Newer ultra‑low‑viscosity 0W‑20 standard used on some latest‑generation VW Group engines aimed at maximum fuel efficiency. Found on certain late‑model A4 2.0 TFSI engines.

These approvals are not interchangeable at random; each is engineered for specific engine designs and service strategies. The safest approach is to use exactly the spec listed in your owner’s manual or oil‑filler cap label, and when several are allowed, pick a product that explicitly states the matching VW number.

Recommended Oil by Generation and Engine Type

Because the Audi A4 quattro has evolved through multiple generations (B5, B6, B7, B8, B9 and now B10), there is no single oil that covers every model. Instead, Audi specifies oils based on engine design, year and service program (fixed vs. flexible intervals).

B5 and Early B6 Audi A4 Quattro (Approx. 1997–2004)

Older A4 quattro models with 1.8T or early 3.0 V6 engines typically require higher‑viscosity synthetics, as clearances and turbo technology differ from newer designs.

• Typical spec: VW 502 00 (petrol engines).
• Common viscosities: 5W‑40 or 0W‑40 fully synthetic, depending on climate.
• Oil examples: Reputable brands like Castrol Edge 5W‑40, Mobil 1 0W‑40, or Liqui Moly products explicitly labeled “VW 502 00 approved.”
• Interval: Commonly 8,000–10,000 miles (12,000–15,000 km) or annually, though many owners of older turbo engines choose 5,000‑mile (8,000‑km) changes as inexpensive insurance.

Using a VW 502 00 synthetic with appropriate viscosity is especially important for older 1.8T engines, which are prone to sludge if run on poor‑quality oil or extended intervals.

Later B6 and B7 Audi A4 Quattro (Approx. 2004–2008)

As Audi refined its FSI and TFSI engines, the company maintained a reliance on VW 502 00 oils for gasoline models, with diesel models requiring different approvals.

• Gasoline engines (2.0T FSI, 3.2 V6): VW 502 00 fully synthetic, most often 5W‑30 or 5W‑40.
• Diesel engines (TDI, where offered): VW 505 01 or VW 507 00, depending on engine and emission system; usually 5W‑30.
• Service intervals: Fixed intervals (every 10,000 miles/15,000 km or 1 year) in many markets; some European cars used variable “LongLife” service with VW 504 00/507 00 oils.

Because some 2.0T FSI engines in this era experienced oil consumption and carbon build‑up issues, sticking closely to VW‑approved oils and intervals remains especially important.

B8 Audi A4 Quattro (Approx. 2008–2016)

The B8 generation, including the facelift (B8.5), introduced more advanced 2.0 TFSI engines and, in some regions, extended service intervals and updated emission systems, leading to broader use of VW 504 00 and 507 00 longlife oils.

• Gasoline 2.0 TFSI / 3.0 TFSI: Typically VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, with 5W‑30 or 5W‑40; some markets specifically recommend VW 504 00 for long service intervals.
• Diesel TDI (with DPF): Generally VW 507 00 5W‑30 low‑SAPs oil to protect particulate filters.
• Climate consideration: 5W‑30 is common for temperate climates, 0W‑30 may be preferred in very cold regions, and 5W‑40 may be tolerated or recommended in hotter conditions if it still carries the correct VW approval.

By the B8 era, Audi’s global materials consistently emphasized that VW approval codes override viscosity when choosing oil, so owners should prioritize spec over brand and avoid generic “synthetic” oils not certified for VW engines.

B9 and Early B10 Audi A4 Quattro (Approx. 2016–Present)

The latest generations of A4 quattro, especially with EA888‑series turbocharged engines and mild‑hybrid variants, often use lower‑viscosity oils to reduce friction and improve fuel economy, along with the updated VW 508 00/509 00 standards in some configurations.

• Modern 2.0 TFSI (gasoline): Depending on market and build date, specified oil may be:
  

  • VW 502 00 5W‑30 or 0W‑30, or
  • VW 504 00 (often 0W‑30 or 5W‑30), or
  • VW 508 00 0W‑20 on the newest ultra‑efficient powertrains.

• Modern diesel (TDI with SCR and DPF): Usually VW 507 00 low‑ash 5W‑30, designed for longlife intervals and exhaust‑aftertreatment compatibility.
• Oil change interval: Frequently up to 10,000 miles/15,000 km or 1–2 years in many regions, with flexible service intervals where supported; heavy city driving, short trips or hot climates may justify shorter intervals.

Because recent model‑year A4s can specify 0W‑20 VW 508 00 oil—a thinner oil than traditional 5W‑30—owners should avoid “upgrading” viscosity on their own. Deviating from the recommended 0W‑20 VW‑approved oil without explicit manufacturer authorization can affect engine efficiency, emissions and potential warranty coverage.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific A4 Quattro

Even within a single generation, Audi may specify different oils by engine code, region and service program. Relying solely on model year or internet charts can be misleading, so verification using primary sources is essential.

Places to Check the Official Oil Requirement

The following step‑by‑step points show where Audi owners can reliably determine the correct oil standard and viscosity for their exact A4 quattro.

1. Owner’s manual: The lubrication section lists the VW oil standard (e.g., “Use only engine oils complying with VW 504 00 or VW 507 00”) and recommended viscosity range.
2. Service booklet or digital service record: Recent services often list the oil grade and spec used by the dealer, which is a practical reference for future changes.
3. Oil‑filler cap or under‑hood label: On many A4s, a label near the filler cap states something like “Use VW 502 00 oil only.”
4. VIN‑based inquiry with Audi dealer: A parts or service department can look up your car by VIN and tell you the currently approved oil spec, including supersessions or technical updates.
5. Official Audi technical literature: In some markets Audi publishes online owner information or technical bulletins accessible to customers that clarify current oil recommendations.

By cross‑checking at least two of these sources—manual plus dealer, for example—owners can be confident they are using the correct modern equivalent even if the original printed manual is slightly outdated.

Choosing a Brand and Product: What to Look For

Once you know your required VW oil standard and acceptable viscosity range, brand becomes largely a matter of preference, availability and price—provided the oil truly meets the correct certification.

How to Read an Oil Label for an Audi A4 Quattro

The following points describe the crucial label elements to verify when purchasing oil for your Audi A4 quattro, regardless of brand.

• VW approval code: Look for exact wording like “VW 502 00 approval” or “Approved according to VW 504 00/507 00.” Phrases such as “meets requirements of” or “suitable for” without formal approval may not satisfy manufacturer standards.
• Viscosity grade: Confirm it matches an allowed grade (e.g., 0W‑20 for VW 508 00, or 5W‑30 for VW 504 00/507 00). Avoid mixing grades significantly different from those listed in your manual.
• Full synthetic (or equivalent): Most VW‑approved oils for modern A4s are full synthetic or “synthetic technology.” Do not use conventional oil on engines that specify synthetic.
• ACEA/API classifications: While secondary to the VW code, these—such as ACEA C3 or API SP—should align with the car’s emissions equipment and region.
• Production date and packaging: Fresh, unopened containers from reputable retailers reduce risk of counterfeit or degraded oil, which has become an increasing concern globally.

Focusing on the approval code first, then viscosity, then brand helps ensure your A4 quattro gets oil that will truly perform to Audi’s standards, regardless of marketing claims.

Top‑Offs, Mixing Oils, and Service Practices

In daily use, many A4 quattro owners top up between services, especially with certain TFSI engines that may consume modest amounts of oil under spirited or high‑speed driving. Knowing how to top up safely can protect the engine and emissions systems.

Topping Up and Mixing Considerations

The following list describes sensible rules for adding oil to your Audi A4 quattro between scheduled changes.

• Match the VW spec whenever possible: Ideally, top up with the same VW approval and viscosity currently in the engine (for example, VW 504 00 5W‑30 if that’s what was used at service).
• Small emergency top‑ups: If the exact oil is unavailable and the engine is low, a small amount of high‑quality synthetic of similar viscosity is better than running low on oil; replace with correct oil at the next opportunity or change interval.
• Avoid frequent mixing of different specs: Regularly combining non‑VW‑approved oil with approved oil can dilute additive performance and might undermine long service intervals.
• Monitor consumption: Some consumption is considered normal, but rapid loss (e.g., more than 1 liter per 1,000 km) should be checked by a technician.
• Use the MMI or dipstick correctly: Ensure the car is on level ground, engine warmed then shut off for a few minutes, before checking oil level; follow your manual’s specific instructions.

By topping up thoughtfully and avoiding chronic mixing of incompatible oils, owners can extend engine life and maintain stable performance between full oil changes.

Regional and Warranty Considerations

Oil requirements for Audi A4 quattro models can differ slightly by market due to fuel quality, emission regulations and climate. These differences can also affect what is accepted under warranty or service plans.

Factors That May Affect Your Oil Choice

The following points summarize common regional and legal considerations owners should be aware of when selecting oil.

• Warranty obligations: During the factory warranty and any extended Audi warranty, using oil that does not meet the specified VW approval may complicate claims on engine‑related issues.
• Dealer vs. independent service: Independent shops can service Audi A4s correctly, but ensure they document the exact VW approval and viscosity used on invoices.
• Regional emission rules: In markets with strict particulate and NOx regulations, low‑ash oils (VW 504 00/507 00 or 508 00/509 00) are often mandatory to protect catalytic converters, GPFs and DPFs.
• Climate extremes: Very hot or very cold regions may influence the recommended viscosity within the allowed range; some manuals show temperature‑viscosity charts with alternative grades.
• Service interval design: Cars placed on “flexible” longlife regimes must use longlife‑approved oils (e.g., VW 504 00/507 00 or 508 00/509 00). Switching to a non‑longlife oil requires reverting to shorter, fixed intervals.

Aligning your oil choice not only with the car’s technical requirements but also with local regulations and warranty conditions avoids potential disputes and ensures your A4 remains compliant and protected.

Summary

An Audi A4 quattro does not have a one‑size‑fits‑all oil, but almost all modern versions require a fully synthetic lubricant carrying an official VW/Audi approval code such as VW 502 00, 504 00, 507 00 or, on some latest models, 508 00/509 00, in a viscosity like 0W‑20, 0W‑30, 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 chosen according to the engine and climate. The most reliable way to determine the correct oil is to consult the owner’s manual and, if necessary, confirm by VIN with an Audi dealer. When in doubt, prioritize the VW approval specification over brand and follow Audi’s service interval guidance. This approach safeguards engine longevity, supports fuel efficiency, and maintains compatibility with advanced turbocharging and emissions systems that define the modern Audi A4 quattro.