What Oil Goes in an Audi S3?

An Audi S3 generally requires a fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW 504 00 / 507 00 (for most modern petrol S3s in Europe) or VW 502 00 (for some earlier or non-EU models), commonly in 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40 viscosity depending on model year, engine code, and climate. Always match the VW approval in your owner’s manual first, then choose the correct viscosity.

Why the Correct Oil Matters for an Audi S3

The Audi S3 is a high-performance variant of the A3, with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that operates under higher temperatures and pressures than regular models. Using the wrong oil can accelerate wear, increase carbon buildup, and, in extreme cases, damage the turbocharger or lead to oil consumption issues. Audi and Volkswagen specify strict oil standards (VW approvals) to ensure proper lubrication, emissions compliance, and long-term engine durability.

The Key Spec: VW Oil Approvals

Before thinking about brand or viscosity, owners must understand that the most critical factor is meeting Audi/VW’s official oil standards, known as VW approvals. These standards define performance requirements for detergency, thermal stability, low-ash content, and compatibility with emissions systems.

The following list outlines the most relevant VW oil approvals you will encounter for an Audi S3 and what they typically mean.

• VW 504 00 / 507 00: The current “top tier” long-life spec for many modern VW/Audi gasoline and diesel engines in Europe, low-SAPS (low ash), designed for extended drain intervals and engines with particulate filters and advanced emissions systems.
• VW 502 00: High-performance gasoline engine specification, common on many older and performance VW/Audi engines. Often used where fixed (shorter) service intervals apply and where 504 00 is not explicitly required.
• VW 505 01 / 507 00 (Diesel): Primarily for diesel engines, not usually applicable to gasoline S3 models but occasionally mentioned in universal product datasheets. S3 is petrol, so these are generally irrelevant.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00: Newer low-viscosity (e.g., 0W-20) specifications used on some latest-generation VW/Audi engines to improve fuel economy. As of late 2024, they are generally not specified for S3 performance engines, which typically require thicker oil.

In practice, most gasoline Audi S3 models will be best served by oils carrying either VW 504 00 / 507 00 or VW 502 00 approval. Your owner’s manual and service booklet are the ultimate references.

Recommended Oil Types by Generation

Different generations of the Audi S3 (and different markets) have slightly different requirements. The following overview reflects typical factory recommendations but should always be checked against the specific model year, engine code, and region.

8L Audi S3 (First Generation, Approx. 1999–2003)

The original S3, built on the first-generation A3 platform, is powered by a 1.8T turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It predates the newer low-ash specs but still requires high-quality fully synthetic oil due to turbocharging and performance demands.

The following list shows common oil specifications and viscosities that are typically suitable for the 8L S3 in many markets.

• Primary spec: VW 502 00 (gasoline high-performance)
• Viscosity range (typical): 5W-40 or 5W-30 fully synthetic, depending on climate
• Cold climates: 0W-40 or 0W-30 can be used if they still meet VW 502 00
• Service intervals: Often fixed intervals (e.g., 10,000–15,000 km or 1 year), not extended LongLife type

The essential point for the 8L S3 is a high-quality, fully synthetic oil with VW 502 00 approval and a viscosity around 5W-30 or 5W-40, adjusted for local temperatures.

8P Audi S3 (Second Generation, Approx. 2006–2012)

The 8P S3 uses a 2.0 TFSI turbocharged engine, sensitive to oil quality and known for issues like carbon buildup if not properly maintained. Many European 8P S3s were under LongLife service regimes, which favors VW 504 00 / 507 00 oils, but some markets still specified VW 502 00 with fixed intervals.

The next list summarizes the typical oil guidelines for the 8P S3.

• Primary specs:
  

  • VW 504 00 / 507 00 for LongLife variable intervals (mainly EU)
  • VW 502 00 for fixed, shorter intervals in some regions

• Common viscosities:
  

  • 5W-30 fully synthetic (most common with 504 00 / 507 00)
  • 5W-40 fully synthetic for 502 00 oils in warmer climates or spirited use

• Considerations: Engines with tuning, hard track use, or hot climates often benefit from 5W-40 that still meets the required VW spec.

For 8P S3 owners, the VW approval listed in the service booklet (504 00 / 507 00 or 502 00) should be the deciding factor, with viscosity tailored to local temperatures and driving style.

8V Audi S3 (Third Generation, Approx. 2013–2020)

The 8V S3, using the EA888 generation of 2.0 TFSI engines, is more thermally efficient but runs hot under load, especially in tuned or track-driven cars. Audi generally specified low-SAPS long-life oils for European models.

The following list highlights typical factory-style recommendations for the 8V S3.

• Primary spec (Europe and many markets): VW 504 00 / 507 00 (LongLife)
• Alternative spec (some regions, especially North America): VW 502 00 for fixed interval service
• Common viscosities:
  

  • 0W-30 or 5W-30 (most common from the factory, especially with 504 00 / 507 00)
  • 5W-40 meeting VW 502 00 used by some owners in hot climates or with performance use

• Emissions systems: Low-ash 504 00 / 507 00 oils help protect catalytic converters and gasoline particulate filters where fitted.

Most stock 8V S3s will be well-served by a high-quality 0W-30 or 5W-30 oil with VW 504 00 / 507 00 approval, unless your local Audi documentation explicitly specifies 502 00 instead.

8Y Audi S3 (Fourth Generation, Approx. 2020–Present)

The current 8Y S3 continues with a 2.0 TFSI engine but is more tightly integrated with emissions controls and often uses gasoline particulate filters, especially in Europe. This places greater importance on using low-SAPS oils that meet the latest VW standards specified for the car.

The list below shows the general oil guidelines typically applicable to 8Y S3 models as of late 2024.

• Primary spec: VW 504 00 / 507 00 in most European and many global markets
• Typical factory viscosity: 0W-30 or 5W-30 fully synthetic long-life oil
• Region-specific variations: Some non-European markets may specify VW 502 00 with fixed service intervals; always check local documentation.
• Tuning and heavy use: If allowed by your dealer or warranty conditions, some owners and independent specialists may favor VW 502 00-approved 5W-40 oils for aggressive driving in hot environments, but this should not contradict the official spec.

For 8Y S3 owners, using a VW 504 00 / 507 00-approved 0W-30 or 5W-30 oil from a reputable brand and following the service interval guidance in the manual is the safest approach for both performance and warranty protection.

Which Viscosity Should You Choose?

Once the correct VW approval is identified, viscosity—such as 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40—should be matched to climate and driving style. The first number relates to cold-start behavior; the second reflects hot operating viscosity.

The next list explains how to think about viscosity choices for the Audi S3.

• 0W-30:
  

  • Excellent cold-start performance in very cold climates
  • Common factory fill for newer S3 models with VW 504 00 / 507 00 spec
  • Prioritizes efficiency and emissions while still maintaining adequate protection for normal driving

• 5W-30:
  

  • Balanced choice suitable for most climates
  • Very common recommendation for VW 504 00 / 507 00 and VW 502 00
  • Good mix of protection and fuel economy for daily-driven S3s

• 5W-40:
  

  • Higher hot-temperature viscosity offers an extra margin of protection under sustained high load, track use, or very hot climates
  • Must still carry the correct VW approval (usually VW 502 00 for S3 use)
  • Often favored by enthusiasts and tuners, but may not align with factory long-life interval guidance

Ultimately, the correct viscosity is the one listed in your owner’s manual for your climate, as long as the oil also meets the specified VW approval code. Where Audi lists multiple options, select according to how and where you drive.

Brand Examples That Meet Audi S3 Specs

Many major oil manufacturers produce products specifically approved under VW 504 00 / 507 00 or VW 502 00. Brand is less important than having the correct VW approval, but reputable products can offer added assurance.

The following list gives examples of oils (as of late 2024) that commonly meet the required approvals for an Audi S3; always confirm the approval on the label or manufacturer’s website, as formulations change.

• Castrol:
  

  • Castrol EDGE 5W-30 LL – often VW 504 00 / 507 00 approved
  • Castrol EDGE 0W-30 – some variants carry VW 504 00 / 507 00
  • Castrol EDGE 5W-40 – selected variants with VW 502 00 approval

• Mobil:
  

  • Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 – many are VW 504 00 / 507 00 approved
  • Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 or 5W-40 – certain versions hold VW 502 00 approval

• LIQUI MOLY:
  

  • Top Tec 4200 5W-30 – typically VW 504 00 / 507 00 approved
  • Synthoil High Tech 5W-40 or Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 – often VW 502 00

• Shell:
  

  • Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV-L 5W-30 – commonly VW 504 00 / 507 00
  • Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40 – some versions carry VW 502 00

• TotalEnergies / ELF and others: Various 5W-30 and 5W-40 fully synthetic products with VW 504 00 / 507 00 or VW 502 00 approvals.

Any oil you choose for your Audi S3 should clearly state the VW approval (e.g., “VW 504 00 / 507 00 approved”) on the back label or product data sheet. If it only says “suitable for” or “meets requirements of” without formal approval, treat it cautiously.

How to Check What Your Specific S3 Needs

Because requirements differ between years, markets, and even specific engine codes, the most reliable way to know exactly which oil to use is to consult official documentation and the car itself.

The next list outlines the practical steps every Audi S3 owner should take before purchasing oil.

1. Check the owner’s manual: There is usually a lubrication section listing VW approval codes (e.g., 504 00 / 507 00 or 502 00) and acceptable viscosities (e.g., 0W-30, 5W-30, 5W-40) by climate.
2. Look under the hood or in the service book: Many S3s have a sticker near the engine bay or oil cap with a VW approval reference; the service booklet may also list the required spec.
3. Verify with the VIN at a dealer: An Audi dealer or authorized workshop can input your VIN and confirm the official, up-to-date oil specification for your exact car and market.
4. Check local regulations and fuel quality: In some regions, specific oils are recommended due to fuel sulfur content or emissions legislation; dealer guidance is helpful here.
5. If tuned or modified, consult a specialist: Performance upgrades, bigger turbos, or frequent track use may justify alternative viscosities (often 5W-40) that still carry suitable VW approvals.

Taking these steps ensures that you buy oil that not only meets the right standard on paper but is also aligned with how your S3 is actually driven and maintained.

Oil Change Intervals and Practical Tips

The interval at which you change the oil in an Audi S3 is nearly as important as the oil choice itself. LongLife intervals may be convenient, but many enthusiasts choose more frequent changes for added protection in a high-performance turbo engine.

The following list covers practical oil change guidance that applies to most S3 owners.

• Factory LongLife (variable) intervals: Up to around 30,000 km or 2 years in some European markets using VW 504 00 / 507 00 oil; this is the official maximum, not always ideal for hard-driven cars.
• Fixed intervals: Typically 10,000–15,000 km or 1 year when using VW 502 00 oils or in markets that don’t support variable servicing.
• Enthusiast practice: Many S3 owners change oil every 8,000–10,000 km, or once a year, whichever comes first, regardless of LongLife capability, especially if driving is spirited.
• Warm engine before draining: Draining oil when warm helps remove more contaminants and sludge.
• Always replace the oil filter: An OEM or high-quality equivalent filter should be replaced at every oil change.
• Monitor oil level: Turbocharged engines can consume some oil; check levels regularly and top up only with the same specification oil.

Aligning oil change intervals with the car’s usage pattern—rather than simply stretching to the maximum allowed—offers better protection for the S3’s turbocharged engine over the long term.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Misunderstandings about oil labeling and marketing language can lead S3 owners to choose suboptimal or even harmful products, particularly if they focus on viscosity or brand alone and ignore VW approvals.

The list below summarizes frequent errors and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring VW approval codes: Choosing oil purely by viscosity (e.g., “it’s 5W-30, so it must be fine”) without checking for VW 504 00 / 507 00 or 502 00 can result in inadequate protection.
• Relying on “meets requirements” claims: Some oils say they “meet” VW requirements but are not officially approved. For warranty or peace of mind, prioritize oils with formal VW approval.
• Mixing incompatible specs: Topping up a VW 504 00 / 507 00 oil with a random 502 00-only product, or vice versa, can dilute the intended formulation, especially concerning low-ash requirements.
• Using too thin oil not specified for the engine: Newer 0W-20 VW 508 00 / 509 00 oils may sound modern and efficient, but if your S3 is not designed for them, they may not provide sufficient high-temperature protection.
• Overextending service intervals: Running oil beyond the recommended kilometers or time can cause sludge, varnish, and increased turbo wear.

A disciplined approach—always verifying VW approvals, avoiding speculative mixing, and respecting service intervals—helps keep the Audi S3’s engine reliable and responsive.

Summary

For an Audi S3, the correct oil is a fully synthetic product carrying the exact VW approval specified in the owner’s manual—most commonly VW 504 00 / 507 00 for modern European models or VW 502 00 for some earlier or regional variants—and typically in 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40 viscosity depending on model year, climate, and driving style. While well-known brands such as Castrol, Mobil, LIQUI MOLY, and Shell all offer suitable oils, the approval code on the label is more important than the name on the bottle. Combined with sensible oil change intervals and regular level checks, using the correct VW-approved oil is one of the most effective ways to preserve performance, reliability, and warranty coverage for any generation of Audi S3.