What Oil Is Best for the Audi S4?

The best oil for an Audi S4 is a high‑quality fully synthetic oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 (for newer engines), typically in viscosities like 0W‑40 or 5W‑40, with popular choices including Mobil 1 ESP 0W‑40, Castrol Edge 0W‑40/5W‑40, and Liqui Moly Top Tec lines certified to these specs. The ideal choice depends on your S4’s model year, engine type, climate, and driving style.

Understanding the Audi S4’s Engine and Its Oil Needs

The Audi S4 has evolved through several generations, with engines ranging from twin‑turbo V6s to naturally aspirated V8s and modern supercharged and turbocharged V6s. All of them are high‑output performance engines that generate substantial heat and operate under higher stress than mainstream powertrains. This means the S4 is particularly dependent on correct oil specification, not just brand reputation or generic “synthetic” labels.

Official Audi/VW Oil Specifications You Must Meet

Before choosing a brand or viscosity, the most important step is to ensure the oil meets Audi’s official VW specifications. These specs cover wear protection, detergent levels, high‑temperature stability, and compatibility with emissions systems like catalytic converters and particulate filters.

• VW 502 00: The core specification for many high‑performance gasoline Audi engines, including many S4 models up to the mid‑2010s. Requires fully synthetic, high‑temperature resistant oil.
• VW 504 00: A more modern long‑life spec for certain newer Audi gasoline engines, often associated with extended service intervals and low‑ash formulations compatible with newer emissions systems.
• VW 505 00 / 507 00: Primarily for diesels, but 507 00 sometimes appears on “universal” oils. For gasoline S4s, 502 00 or 504 00 are the primary targets; always follow your manual.
• Audi LongLife Service: Some European‑market S4s are set up for variable “LongLife” intervals. These engines typically require 504 00‑approved oils for safe extended drain intervals.

Choosing oil that explicitly lists VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 on the label (or data sheet) is more crucial than obsessing over brand alone. Using an oil without the correct spec increases the risk of deposits, premature wear, and warranty disputes on newer cars.

Best Oil Choices by Audi S4 Generation

Because engine design varies significantly between generations, the most suitable weight and spec can differ. The following overview reflects common guidance as of 2024, but your owner’s manual or dealer bulletins always take precedence.

B5 S4 (1997–2002, 2.7T Twin‑Turbo V6)

The B5’s 2.7‑liter twin‑turbo V6 is known for high under‑hood temperatures and sensitivity to maintenance. It benefits from robust, high‑temperature‑stable oils.

• Recommended spec: VW 502 00 fully synthetic.
• Typical viscosities: 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 in most climates; 5W‑40 or even 5W‑50 in very hot/high‑stress use.
• Popular choices:
  

  • Mobil 1 FS 0W‑40 (often labeled “European Car Formula” or “FS 0W‑40” in North America).
  • Castrol Edge 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 (VW 502 00 approved versions).
  • Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W‑40 (502 00).

• Change interval: Many enthusiasts prefer 5,000‑mile (≈8,000 km) intervals rather than extended drains due to turbo heat and aging hardware.

For the B5 S4, a stout 40‑weight oil with VW 502 00 approval, frequent changes, and high‑temperature stability is more important than chasing fuel economy‑oriented lighter oils.

B6/B7 S4 (2003–2008, 4.2L Naturally Aspirated V8)

The B6/B7 S4’s 4.2‑liter V8 is known both for its performance and for timing chain and valvetrain wear issues if oil quality or change intervals are neglected. Clean, stable synthetic oil is essential.

• Recommended spec: VW 502 00 fully synthetic.
• Typical viscosities: 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 for most climates.
• Popular choices:
  

  • Mobil 1 FS 0W‑40.
  • Castrol Edge 0W‑40 or 5W‑40.
  • Liqui Moly Synthoil High Tech 5W‑40 (502 00).

• Change interval: Many owners adopt 5,000‑mile (≈8,000 km) intervals to reduce sludge and extend chain and cam adjuster life.

On the B6/B7 V8, using a VW 502 00 oil with consistent 40‑weight protection helps minimize chain tensioner and cam wear, a critical concern on this platform.

B8/B8.5 S4 (2010–2016, 3.0 TFSI Supercharged V6)

The 3.0‑liter supercharged V6 (EA837) in the B8/B8.5 S4 runs hot and uses direct injection, which can lead to intake valve deposits if oil quality is poor. It is also sensitive to timing chain system wear, making oil choice and interval especially important.

• Recommended spec: VW 502 00 is standard in most regions; some later or LongLife‑configured cars may allow VW 504 00.
• Typical viscosities: Historically 5W‑40; in many markets, 0W‑40 is now widely used and approved.
• Popular choices:
  

  • Mobil 1 ESP 0W‑40 (has VW 502 00 / 505 00 approvals and low‑ash formulation; a current favorite among many Audi techs in 2024).
  • Castrol Edge 5W‑40 or 0W‑40 with VW 502 00 approval.
  • Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W‑30 (504 00/507 00) only if your specific car/manual lists 504 00/507 00 as acceptable.

• Change interval: Even if the car is configured for ~10,000‑mile (≈15,000 km) intervals, many independent specialists recommend 5,000–7,500 miles (≈8,000–12,000 km), especially if tuned or driven hard.

For the B8 generation, a VW‑approved 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 synthetic like Mobil 1 ESP 0W‑40 offers a good balance of cold‑start flow, high‑heat stability, and emissions‑system friendliness.

B9/B9.5 S4 (2017–present, 3.0 TFSI Turbocharged V6)

The current‑generation S4 (in markets where it remains gasoline‑powered) uses a 3.0‑liter single‑turbo V6 with advanced emissions controls and tight tolerances. Oil choice now must satisfy both performance and modern emissions requirements.

• Recommended spec: Commonly VW 504 00 in Europe and many markets; some North American guidance still allows high‑quality VW 502 00 oils. Always confirm against your region‑specific owner’s manual.
• Typical viscosities: 0W‑30, 0W‑40, or 5W‑40 depending on climate and regional recommendations.
• Popular choices (check for 504 00/502 00 as appropriate):
  

  • Mobil 1 ESP 0W‑40 (502 00/505 00; in some regions it also aligns with 504/507 requirements—verify local approvals).
  • Castrol Edge Professional LL IV FE 0W‑20 or similar low‑viscosity long‑life oils for certain markets and efficiency‑focused specs (only if specifically listed in manual).
  • Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W‑30 (504 00/507 00) where 5W‑30 long‑life oils are factory‑specified.

• Change interval: Factory intervals can be 10,000 miles/15,000 km or more, but many enthusiasts still choose 7,500‑mile (≈12,000 km) or shorter intervals to protect turbo and timing components, especially for tuned cars.

On the B9 S4, adhering strictly to the specified VW 504 00 or 502 00 spec and viscosity range is especially important because of tighter emissions rules, GPF/OPF filters in some markets, and the higher sensitivity of the turbocharged engine to oil quality.

How to Pick the Right Viscosity (0W‑40 vs 5W‑40 vs 5W‑30)

Once you have confirmed the correct VW spec, the next question is viscosity: how thick the oil is at cold start and at operating temperature. For many S4 owners, the debate centers on 0W‑40 vs 5W‑40, with some newer models specifying 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 long‑life oils.

• 0W‑40: Excellent cold‑start performance in colder climates while still offering a 40‑weight level of protection when hot. A good “one‑size” choice for many modern S4s that call for 502 00 and allow 0W‑40.
• 5W‑40: Slightly thicker at cold start, often favored in warmer climates and on older engines (B5/B6/B7) where wear or oil consumption is a concern.
• 5W‑30 or 0W‑30: Often recommended for newer B9 engines with long‑life programs and stricter emissions systems; must carry VW 504 00/507 00 approvals if used on cars designed for those specs.
• Climate considerations: In very cold climates, 0W grades help with quicker flow and easier starts. In very hot or track conditions, a robust 5W‑40 or occasionally 5W‑50 (for heavily tracked older S4s) can offer extra margin.

Ultimately, viscosity should be chosen from the range listed in your owner’s manual, with climate and driving style guiding you within that band, rather than improvising outside manufacturer‑approved grades.

Top Recommended Oils Commonly Used in Audi S4s

Within the correct VW spec and viscosity range, several oils have built strong track records among Audi technicians and S4 enthusiasts worldwide.

• Mobil 1 ESP 0W‑40: One of the most commonly recommended oils for many modern Audi S and RS models, with VW 502 00/505 00 approval and a formulation friendly to emissions systems.
• Mobil 1 FS 0W‑40: Widely available, VW 502 00‑approved, and a staple “Euro” performance oil for older and mid‑generation S4s (B5, B6/B7, early B8).
• Castrol Edge 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 (VW 502 00): Historically associated with Audi/VW as a factory fill in various markets; robust and widely available.
• Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W‑40 (502 00): Popular in Europe and among enthusiasts worldwide for older and mid‑generation S4s wanting a high‑quality 5W‑40.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W‑30 (504 00/507 00): A strong candidate where the owner’s manual calls for 504 00/507 00 long‑life oil in newer engines.
• OEM‑branded Audi/VW oil (e.g., VW 0W‑30/0W‑40 with 504 00/502 00): Typically re‑labeled oil from a major supplier (often Castrol or similar) and always compliant with the required specs.

All of these are fully synthetic and carry the VW/Audi approvals that matter. Choosing among them often comes down to availability, price, and personal or mechanic preference rather than dramatic performance differences.

Driving Style, Tuning, and Oil Change Interval

How you drive your S4—and whether it’s modified—can influence both your oil choice within the approved range and how frequently you change it.

• Daily commuting, stock car: Follow the manual’s viscosity and spec, and you can generally trust the standard service interval, though shortening it slightly is cheap insurance.
• Spirited driving, occasional track use: Many specialists recommend 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 502 00 oil with changes around 5,000–7,500 miles (8,000–12,000 km), even if the car allows longer intervals.
• Tuned or heavily modified S4: Extra boost and heat justify more frequent oil changes—often every 3,000–5,000 miles (5,000–8,000 km)—and a focus on robust 40‑weight oils carrying the correct VW approval.
• Short trips and cold weather: Frequent cold starts and never fully warming the engine can cause fuel dilution and moisture buildup, making shorter intervals beneficial regardless of driving style.

While the type of oil matters, used‑oil condition and change frequency are equally critical in keeping an S4’s high‑output engine healthy over the long term.

How to Confirm the Right Oil for Your Specific S4

Because specifications and recommendations can differ by year, market, and software configuration, confirming the exact requirement for your individual car is essential before buying oil in bulk.

• Check the owner’s manual: Look for the section on engine oil; Audi lists acceptable VW specs and viscosity ranges by temperature.
• Check the service booklet or under‑hood stickers: Some S4s have labels noting LongLife service or specific oil standards.
• Ask a dealer or reputable independent Audi specialist: They can reference your VIN and regional service bulletins to confirm whether VW 502 00, 504 00, or a particular viscosity is required.
• Verify approvals on the oil label or data sheet: The bottle (or manufacturer’s technical PDF) should explicitly list VW 502 00, 504 00, etc.—“meets or exceeds” without naming the spec is not the same as formal approval.

Taking a few minutes to confirm the exact VW spec and viscosity ensures that your chosen oil protects your engine properly and keeps you aligned with manufacturer guidance and, where relevant, warranty conditions.

Summary

The best oil for an Audi S4 is a fully synthetic oil that explicitly carries the correct Audi/VW approval—usually VW 502 00 for older and mid‑generation S4s, and VW 504 00 (or sometimes 502 00) for newer models—typically in 0W‑40 or 5W‑40 for most engines and climates. Commonly recommended options in 2024 include Mobil 1 ESP 0W‑40, Mobil 1 FS 0W‑40, Castrol Edge 0W‑40/5W‑40 with VW approval, and Liqui Moly’s 502 00/504 00‑approved lines. Once the spec is correct, select viscosity based on the range in your owner’s manual and your climate, and favor shorter change intervals—especially on older, tuned, or hard‑driven S4s—to keep these performance engines running reliably and cleanly over the long term.

What kind of oil does a Audi S4 3.0 supercharged take?

Types of Oil Used in Audi S4 Models With 6 Cylinder Engines
2000-2002 Audi S4 2.7T 30V models use VW 502 00 oil spec. 2010-2016 Audi S4 3.0L 24V Supercharged models use VW 502 00 oil spec. 2018-2024 Audi S4 3.0L 24V Turbocharged models use VW 508 00 oil spec.

What brand of oil does Audi recommend?

Audi recommends using oils that meet their specific specifications, frequently recommending Castrol EDGE Professional LongLife III 5W-30 and other synthetic oils that meet VW standards like Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30. While Castrol is a common recommendation, other brands like Mobil 1, Valvoline, and Liqui Moly also have options that meet Audi’s specifications, such as Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 or Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40. It is crucial to check your owner’s manual or use an oil finder tool to ensure the oil’s specifications match your specific engine. 
Commonly recommended brands and products

• Castrol: Often recommended for its high performance and adherence to VW standards. A specific example is Castrol EDGE Professional LongLife III 5W-30. 
• Mobil 1: Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 is recommended for its excellent wear protection and engine cleanliness. Mobil 1 0W-40 is another option that meets Audi’s requirements. 
• Liqui Moly: Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 is another well-regarded option known for its high lubrication reliability. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner’s manual: Always consult your owner’s manual or use an online oil finder tool to determine the specific oil viscosity grade and specification (e.g., VW504, VW507) for your vehicle. 
• Use synthetic oil: Modern Audi engines, especially turbocharged ones, require the protection of synthetic oil. 
• Don’t overfill: When adding oil, be careful not to overfill, as this can cause severe engine damage. 

What oil does the Audi S4 take?

The Audi S4 oil type varies by model year, with common recommendations including 5W-40 for many models from 2000-2016 and 0W-20 or 0W-30 for newer models (2018+). It is crucial to use a full synthetic oil that meets the specific Audi/Volkswagen oil quality standard for your S4, such as VW 502 00 for many earlier models and VW 508 00 for some newer ones. Always check your owner’s manual to confirm the correct viscosity and oil specification for your specific year. 
Common oil types by model year

• 2000-2016 models (including 2.7T and 3.0T Supercharged):
  • Viscosity: 5W-40 is a common and recommended viscosity. Some models may also be compatible with 5W-30. 
  • Specification: Look for an oil that meets the VW 502 00 quality standard. 
• 2018-2024 models:
  • Viscosity: 0W-20 is often recommended. Some owner’s manuals might specify 0W-30 for certain model years. 
  • Specification: Newer models may require a different specification, such as VW 508 00. 

Important considerations

• Always check your owner’s manual: The most accurate information will be in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, which specifies the correct oil viscosity and quality standard for your particular S4. 
• Use full synthetic oil: High-performance Audi engines require full synthetic oil to ensure proper lubrication and protection. 
• Meet the oil quality standard: Ensure the oil you choose meets the specific Audi/Volkswagen specification (like VW 502 00 or VW 508 00). Using the wrong oil can lead to engine damage. 

What kind of oil does a 2018 Audi S4 take?

The 2018 Audi S4 requires 0W-20 full synthetic motor oil that meets the VW 508 00 oil specification. The engine capacity is approximately 7.7 quarts, including the oil filter. 
Oil specifications

• Viscosity: 0W-20
• Specification: VW 508 00
• Type: Full synthetic
• Capacity: 7.7 quarts (approximately 7.3 liters) 

Important considerations

• Use the correct specification: Always ensure the oil you choose has the VW 508 00 specification, as this is critical for the engine’s performance and longevity. 
• Replace the drain plug seal: The drain plug seal should be replaced when changing the oil. 
• Tighten the drain plug correctly: The drain plug should be tightened to a torque of 22 ft-lbs.