What Oil Is Needed for an Audi A4?

An Audi A4 typically requires a high-quality, fully synthetic engine oil that meets Volkswagen/Audi’s official specification, most commonly VW 502 00 or the newer VW 504 00, with the correct viscosity such as 0W-20, 5W-30, or 5W-40 depending on model year, engine, and regional climate. To choose the correct oil, owners must match both the VW spec and viscosity grade listed in their owner’s manual or on the under-hood label.

Why Oil Choice Matters for the Audi A4

The Audi A4’s modern turbocharged engines operate under high temperatures and pressures, making the correct engine oil essential for performance, fuel economy, and long-term reliability. Using oil that does not meet the manufacturer’s specification can lead to increased wear, higher oil consumption, and, in some cases, voided warranty coverage. Understanding both the VW/Audi approval codes and viscosity ratings is key to making an informed choice.

Key Oil Specifications for Audi A4 Models

Audi, under the Volkswagen Group, defines engine oil by official approval codes rather than by brand names alone. These VW specs ensure the oil has passed stringent tests for high-temperature stability, deposit control, low-temperature flow, and compatibility with emissions systems such as particulate filters and catalytic converters.

Common VW/Audi Oil Specifications

The following list outlines the most commonly relevant Volkswagen/Audi oil specifications for the Audi A4, along with what type of engines and service conditions they are typically associated with.

• VW 502 00: Traditional long‑life specification for high-performance gasoline engines in many Audi A4 models (especially pre‑mid‑2010s). Typically used with 5W‑30 or 5W‑40 full synthetic oils.
• VW 504 00: Newer long‑life spec for modern gasoline engines, low‑ash for compatibility with advanced emissions systems. Often used with 0W‑20 or 5W‑30 oils in later A4 generations.
• VW 505 00 / 505 01: Diesel specifications mostly relevant to older TDI engines. 505 01 is specifically for certain unit‑injector (PD) diesel engines.
• VW 507 00: Low‑SAPs (low ash) specification for modern diesel engines equipped with diesel particulate filters (DPF), found on many recent A4 TDI models.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00: Latest ultra‑low viscosity spec (commonly 0W‑20) for some newer VW/Audi engines focused on maximum fuel efficiency; applicable only to engines explicitly approved for it.

These specifications are not interchangeable at random: an Audi A4 engine that requires VW 504 00 or 507 00 should not routinely be filled with an oil that only meets VW 502 00 or 505 00, and vice versa, unless a dealer or factory bulletin explicitly allows it.

Typical Recommendations by Generation (General Guidance)

Different generations of the Audi A4 use different engine families, leading to variations in the recommended oil specification and viscosity. The following overview provides general trends, but owners should always confirm with their specific VIN and owner’s documentation.

• B6/B7 (approx. 2001–2008, 1.8T, 2.0T, 3.2 FSI gasoline): Commonly require fully synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00, typically 5W‑40 or 5W‑30. Some European diesels use VW 505 01 or VW 507 00.
• B8/B8.5 (approx. 2008–2016, 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TDI, etc.): Gasoline engines usually specify VW 502 00 (5W‑30 or 5W‑40), while many modern diesels require VW 507 00 low‑SAPs oil (commonly 5W‑30).
• B9/B9.5 (approx. 2016–present, 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI, 2.0/3.0 TDI, mild hybrids): Increasingly specify VW 504 00 for gasoline engines (0W‑20 or 5W‑30, depending on market) and VW 507 00 for many diesels. Some very recent engines may require VW 508 00/509 00 with 0W‑20 oil; this is engine‑specific.

Because Audi calibrations differ by region (Europe, North America, Asia, etc.), and updates are introduced over time, these generational guidelines are starting points, not a substitute for checking your individual vehicle’s documentation or dealership records.

Understanding Viscosity: 0W-20, 5W-30, 5W-40 and More

Beyond the VW approval code, the viscosity rating (such as 0W‑20 or 5W‑40) determines how the oil flows when cold and how thick it remains at operating temperature. Modern Audi A4 engines are increasingly engineered around lower‑viscosity oils to improve efficiency, though some older or higher‑mileage engines may benefit from slightly thicker options within the approved range.

How to Interpret Common Viscosity Grades

The following points explain what the most frequently recommended viscosity grades for the Audi A4 actually mean in practice, helping owners choose an oil that’s appropriate for climate and driving style while staying within Audi’s approved range.

• 0W‑20: Very thin at cold temperatures (excellent cold starts) and relatively thin at operating temperature. Common in the latest efficiency‑focused engines with tight tolerances; only use if your Audi A4 is explicitly specified for 0W‑20 and a compatible VW spec (e.g., 508 00/509 00 or some 504 00 applications).
• 5W‑30: A widely used all‑round viscosity that balances cold‑start performance and protection at normal operating temperatures. Often specified for many B8 and B9 A4 gasoline and diesel engines under VW 502 00, 504 00, or 507 00.
• 5W‑40: Slightly thicker at operating temperature, sometimes favored in older turbocharged engines (like early 2.0 TFSI or 1.8T) or in hot climates and heavy‑duty use, where VW 502 00 approval is usually required.
• 0W‑30 / 0W‑40: Offer excellent cold‑start characteristics, with 0W‑40 being common in performance‑oriented or warmer‑climate scenarios as long as it meets a correct VW spec.

Choosing a viscosity outside what the manufacturer recommends can affect engine efficiency, oil consumption, and wear, so any deviation from the owner’s manual guidance should be approached cautiously and, ideally, discussed with a qualified Audi technician.

How to Find the Correct Oil for *Your* Specific Audi A4

The variety of engines and specifications across Audi A4 model years means that the most reliable way to identify the correct oil is to use your car’s unique information: the VIN, model year, engine code, and region. Audi and oil manufacturers provide tools and labels that make this process more precise than guessing from a generic chart.

Step-by-Step: Confirming the Right Oil

The steps below outline how any Audi A4 owner can verify the correct oil specification and viscosity using documentation, digital resources, and professional advice.

1. Check the Owner’s Manual: Look for the “Engine Oil” section, which will list the required VW specification (e.g., VW 504 00 / 507 00) and one or more acceptable viscosity grades.
2. Inspect Under-Hood Labels: Some A4s have a label under the hood or on the oil cap indicating the oil spec (e.g., “Use only VW 502 00 / 504 00”) and sometimes the viscosity grade.
3. Use Online Oil Selector Tools: Major oil brands (Castrol, Mobil, Shell, Liqui Moly, etc.) offer online tools where you enter your car’s make, model, year, and sometimes engine code to get a list of approved or recommended oils.
4. Call an Audi Dealer or Specialist: Providing your VIN to an Audi service department allows them to pull factory data specifying the exact oil standard and viscosity originally recommended for your car and any updated bulletins.
5. Verify on the Oil Bottle: When buying oil, confirm that the label specifically states the VW approval (e.g., “Approved: VW 504 00 / 507 00”) rather than just “meets requirements of.” Official approvals carry more weight.

Following these steps reduces the risk of using an incompatible product and ensures your Audi A4’s engine receives the lubrication and protection it was designed around from the factory.

Recommended Oil Types and Brands (Non-Exhaustive)

Audi does not mandate a single brand; instead, it requires compliance with VW specifications. Many premium oil manufacturers produce fully synthetic products certified for these standards, and some are even co-branded with Audi or Volkswagen in dealerships.

Examples of Oils Commonly Used in Audi A4s

The following examples illustrate the types of oils that frequently carry the relevant VW approvals for Audi A4 models. Always confirm the specific approval code and viscosity on the current product label, as formulations and approvals can change.

• Castrol EDGE Professional / EDGE LongLife: Many variants approved for VW 502 00 / 504 00 / 507 00 in grades like 0W‑20, 5W‑30, and 5W‑40; often used in dealer networks in Europe and some other markets.
• Mobil 1 ESP / ESP X2: Products carrying VW 504 00 / 507 00 approvals in 0W‑30 or 5W‑30; Mobil 1 formulations are popular for both gasoline and diesel A4 engines with emissions hardware.
• Shell Helix Ultra / Pennzoil Platinum Euro formulations: Certain variants carry VW 502 00 / 504 00 / 507 00 and are marketed for European vehicles, including Audi A4 models.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec and Special Tec series: Several products are specifically labeled with VW/Audi approvals (e.g., Top Tec 4200 for 504 00/507 00, Special Tec for 502 00) and are popular among enthusiasts.
• OEM-branded Audi/VW oil: Sold at dealerships, typically rebranded oil from a major supplier, pre-approved for the required VW specs and often chosen by owners who want to match factory fill.

These brands and product lines show the diversity of compatible options; the essential point is that the oil must carry the correct VW approval and viscosity for your particular Audi A4 engine and operating conditions.

Oil Change Intervals and Service Considerations

Using the correct oil is only part of the equation; changing it at appropriate intervals is just as critical. Audi A4s often employ flexible (long‑life) service intervals, but real-world factors like driving style and conditions can warrant more frequent changes than the maximum period suggested by the onboard system.

Typical Service Intervals and Best Practices

The considerations below summarize how often Audi A4 engine oil should typically be changed, and what owners can do to ensure consistent engine health over the vehicle’s lifetime.

• Flexible/Long-Life Intervals: Many newer A4s with approved long-life oils (e.g., VW 504 00/507 00) may specify intervals up to about 15,000–18,000 km or roughly 10,000–12,000 miles, or around 1–2 years, depending on region and service regime.
• Fixed/Shorter Intervals: Owners who do a lot of short trips, cold starts, or spirited driving often choose shorter intervals (e.g., 8,000–10,000 km or 5,000–6,000 miles), even if the car allows longer, to reduce contamination and deposits.
• Check Oil Level Regularly: Many Audi A4 engines, particularly turbocharged ones, can consume some oil between services. Regularly checking and topping up with the same spec and viscosity prevents low‑oil situations.
• Replace Filter Every Oil Change: Always install a quality oil filter (OEM or equivalent) designed for your A4’s engine, as poor filtration undermines the benefits of high-quality oil.
• Observe Warranty and Local Recommendations: For vehicles under warranty, follow the manufacturer’s schedule and documentation strictly, and keep records of oil specifications used for potential claims.

Appropriate intervals, combined with the correct oil, help keep the Audi A4’s engine clean, reduce wear on critical components like turbochargers and timing chains, and support reliable performance long after the warranty period has passed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

With so many oil types on the market, it is easy for Audi A4 owners to make missteps when buying or changing engine oil. Being aware of the most frequent errors can prevent costly engine or emissions-system problems.

Frequent Pitfalls When Choosing Oil for an Audi A4

The list below highlights errors that Audi A4 owners should avoid when selecting engine oil, including misunderstandings about labels, specs, and viscosity choices.

• Ignoring VW Specification Codes: Picking oil based only on viscosity (e.g., “5W‑30 is 5W‑30”) without confirming the VW 502 00/504 00/507 00 approval can result in using an oil that is not formulated for your engine’s requirements.
• Using Non-Synthetic or Semi-Synthetic Oil: Audi A4 engines are designed around fully synthetic oils; using conventional or semi-synthetic oil can reduce protection, especially under turbocharged, high‑temperature conditions.
• Mixing Incompatible Oils: Frequently topping up with different, non-approved oils can dilute the additive package and may affect emissions system compatibility.
• Assuming All “European Formula” Oils Are Approved: Some products are marketed for European cars but only “claim to meet” VW specs without official approval; always look for explicit VW approval language.
• Overfilling or Underfilling: Incorrect oil level can harm the engine or catalysts; follow the specified capacity and re-check the level after filling, especially with electronic dipstick systems.

By avoiding these mistakes and verifying that the oil meets Audi’s official requirements, owners can significantly reduce the risk of engine issues and preserve the A4’s performance and value.

Summary

An Audi A4 requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets the official Volkswagen/Audi specification for its particular engine—most commonly VW 502 00 for many older gasoline models, VW 504 00 for newer gasoline engines, and VW 507 00 for modern diesels, with viscosities such as 0W‑20, 5W‑30, or 5W‑40 depending on model year, engine, and climate. The correct oil for any given A4 is best determined by consulting the owner’s manual, under‑hood labels, or an Audi dealer using the vehicle’s VIN, then confirming that the chosen oil bottle explicitly lists the appropriate VW approval code and viscosity. Sticking to these requirements, using reputable brands, and changing oil at sensible intervals ensures the Audi A4’s engine remains efficient, reliable, and well‑protected over time.

What type of oil does my Audi A4 take?

The correct Audi A4 oil type depends on the engine and model year, but it is typically a full synthetic oil with an Audi/VW specification like VW 502.00 or VW 504.00. For many turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, a SAE 5W-40 or SAE 5W-30 is suitable, and you should always check your owner’s manual for the specific requirements, as these can vary by year and engine.
 
Common Audi A4 oil types by engine and year

• Older 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engines (e.g., 2017 and earlier): Often require a full synthetic oil that meets the VW 502.00 specification, with SAE 5W-40 being a common viscosity. 
• Later 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engines (e.g., 2019 and later): May use a different specification like VW 504.00, often with a SAE 5W-30 or SAE 5W-40 viscosity. 
• 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engines (some models): Some models, like certain years of the engine code CYMC, may require a VW 504.00 / VW 507.00 specification. 
• 3.2L V6 engines: Typically require oil that meets the VW 502.00 specification. 
• Modern 2.0L Turbocharged I4 engines: Newer models might have an even different specification, such as VW 508.00 for the DBPA, DPAA, and DMSA engine codes. 

Key takeaways

• Always consult your owner’s manual for the most accurate information on your specific A4 model, as requirements can change between years and engine types. 
• Look for the specific Audi/VW oil quality standard, such as VW 502.00, VW 504.00, or VW 507.00, in addition to the viscosity rating (e.g., 5W-40). 
• Full synthetic oil is generally recommended for optimal performance and longevity. 

What does Audi recommend for oil?

Oil Viscosity Recommendations
SAE 5W-30: Ideal for a wide range of temperatures and common for most Audi engines.

What oil does a 2018 Audi A4 use?

The 2018 Audi A4 requires a full synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification. The most common recommended viscosity is SAE 5W-40, though SAE 5W-30 is also suitable depending on your engine code. The engine capacity is approximately 5.5 quarts. 
Oil type and specifications

• Type: Full synthetic engine oil is required for all modern Audi models. 
• Specification: It must meet the VW 502 00 specification. 
• Viscosity: The most common and recommended viscosity is 5W-40. 
  • If 5W-40 is not available, 5W-30 is a suitable alternative, as long as it meets the required VW 502 00 standard. 
• Capacity: The engine requires about 5.5 quarts of oil. 
• Important Note: Some 2.0T engines may have a different specification (e.g., for B-cycle engines), so always confirm your specific engine code and requirements. 

What to buy

• Look for “full synthetic” and the “5W-40” or “5W-30” viscosity on the label. 
• Ensure the bottle clearly states that it meets the VW 502 00 specification. 

Is 5W-30 good for Audi A4?

Choosing the Best Oil for Your Audi A4
Audi recommends using synthetic oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification. Here are a few top choices: Castrol EDGE 5W-30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil: Known for its exceptional strength under high pressure, this oil provides superior protection and performance for your Audi A4.