What Oil Is Recommended for the Audi Q7?

The recommended oil for most modern Audi Q7 models is a fully synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 504 00 / 507 00, typically in viscosity grades 5W-30 or 0W-30, depending on engine and climate. This specification, not just the brand or viscosity, is the crucial factor, and is what dealers and manufacturer guidance consistently emphasize.

Why Oil Specification Matters More Than Brand

The central question for Audi Q7 owners is not just which oil brand to buy, but which exact standard the oil meets. Audi, under the Volkswagen Group, certifies oils using VW-specific specifications (such as VW 504 00 / 507 00), which account for factors like turbocharger protection, emissions system compatibility, extended drain intervals, and fuel quality differences. Using oil that meets the wrong spec can risk long‑term engine wear or warranty problems, even if the viscosity looks similar on the label.

Core Recommendation: Modern Audi Q7 Engines

For most petrol and diesel Audi Q7 models sold in the last decade—especially in Europe and North America—the manufacturer generally recommends oils that conform to VW 504 00 (for gasoline) and VW 507 00 (for diesel). Many oils are dual-approved and carry both markings. These are designed for modern turbocharged direct-injection engines and for use with diesel particulate filters (DPF) and gasoline particulate filters (GPF).

Typical Viscosity Grades

Viscosity grade is chosen based on climate and engine design, but Audi’s factory-fill and service recommendations for the Q7 in temperate markets usually center on a small group of viscosities. Understanding those options helps owners match the oil to their driving conditions without departing from official guidelines.

The most common viscosity grades that meet VW 504 00 / 507 00 and are typically recommended for the Audi Q7 include:

• 5W-30 fully synthetic – The most widely used grade for recent Q7 engines in Europe and North America; balances cold start protection with high‑temperature stability.
• 0W-30 fully synthetic – Favoured in colder climates for improved cold‑start performance while still meeting Audi’s spec.
• 0W-40 or 5W-40 fully synthetic (if specified) – Occasionally recommended or allowed for certain engines or hotter climates, but must still carry the correct VW approvals; more common in older engines or performance variants.

While multiple viscosity options may work in theory, the safest approach is to match what appears in your specific Q7’s owner’s manual or service documentation and to check that the bottle explicitly lists the relevant VW code.

Key Audi/VW Oil Specifications for the Q7

Audi Q7 engines have evolved across generations, bringing changes in emissions systems, injection technology, and service intervals. Each phase introduced refinements to the approved oil specifications, often referred to by their Volkswagen (VW) codes.

Below are the primary VW oil specifications relevant to Audi Q7 models and what they generally apply to:

• VW 504 00 – High-performance, long-life oil for modern gasoline (petrol) engines; compatible with extended service intervals and particulate-filter-equipped engines.
• VW 507 00 – Low-SAPS, long-life oil mainly for modern diesel engines with diesel particulate filters (DPF); protects emissions systems and allows extended oil change intervals.
• VW 502 00 – Older standard for high-performance gasoline engines; frequently used when fixed (non-long-life) intervals are specified or in earlier Q7 petrol engines.
• VW 505 01 / 505 00 – Older standards for diesel engines, especially pump‑duse (PD) diesels and pre-DPF models, mainly relevant to first-generation Q7s from the late 2000s.

These specifications are printed on approved oil containers; if a product does not explicitly list the VW spec, it should not be assumed to be acceptable, regardless of viscosity or generic “meets requirements” phrasing.

Generation-by-Generation Guidance

The Audi Q7 has gone through several generations and engine updates. While the fundamental principle—use a fully synthetic oil meeting the correct VW spec—remains constant, there are nuances between model years and engines that owners should be aware of.

First Generation (Typ 4L, approx. 2006–2015)

Early Audi Q7s came with a mix of naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol V6/V8 engines and a range of TDI diesels. Many of these engines pre-date the 504/507 standard or sat on the cusp of change, so it is especially important for owners of these vehicles to consult the owner’s manual for the exact spec and interval regime.

For these early Q7 models, Audi and VW commonly recommended:

• Gasoline engines – VW 502 00 (and sometimes 504 00 on later revisions with long-life intervals), usually in 5W-30, 5W-40 or 0W-40, depending on market and climate.
• Diesel engines without DPF or early DPF systems – VW 505 01 or VW 507 00, again usually fully synthetic in 5W-30 or 5W-40 grades.
• Service intervals – Some markets used “LongLife” flexible intervals with 504/507 oils, while others maintained fixed intervals requiring 502.00/505.01 oils.

Because this generation spans a period of rapid emissions and oil-standard evolution, assumptions based solely on model year can be risky; engine code and region-specific guidance are often decisive.

Second Generation and Facelift (Typ 4M, approx. 2015–present)

The second-generation Q7 brought lighter construction, more sophisticated turbocharged engines, and more stringent emissions controls, including widespread use of particulate filters even on gasoline engines in many regions. Oil selection here is more standardized around the newer VW specs.

For 4M-generation Q7s, the general pattern is:

• Most gasoline engines (TFSI) – Fully synthetic oil meeting VW 504 00, often combined with 507 00 on the label; usually 5W-30 or 0W-30.
• Most diesel engines (TDI) – Fully synthetic oil meeting VW 507 00; also frequently dual-branded as 504 00 / 507 00; typically 5W-30.
• Performance variants (e.g., SQ7 TDI, higher-output engines) – Still typically 504 00 / 507 00, but some markets or engine codes may specify alternative viscosity ranges such as 0W-40; the exact specification must be taken from the service literature.

For these newer models, using 504 00 / 507 00-approved oil is generally non-negotiable because of the sensitivity of particulate filters, EGR systems, and turbochargers to ash content and lubrication quality.

Popular Oil Brands That Meet Audi Q7 Requirements

Audi does not mandate a single brand, but dealers often use a preferred supplier. Many mainstream oil manufacturers produce products that meet VW 504 00 / 507 00 or the relevant older specs, giving Q7 owners a wide choice at different price points.

Examples of widely available oils that commonly carry VW 504 00 / 507 00 approvals (always verify the label, as formulas change) include:

• Castrol EDGE 5W-30 LL – Frequently used in Audi dealerships in Europe; explicitly designed around VW long-life standards.
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 / 0W-30 – “ESP” line is low-SAPS and often approved for VW 504 00 / 507 00, suitable for engines with DPF/GPF.
• Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV-L 5W-30 – A VW-specific formulation that commonly lists 504 00 / 507 00 approvals.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30 – Popular in Europe; typically carries VW 504 00 / 507 00 and is marketed specifically for VW/Audi applications.
• Ravenol VMP 5W-30 – A specialist brand that often highlights VW approvals and is used by enthusiasts.

The specific product names and approvals can change as formulations are updated, so it is essential to check the back label or the manufacturer’s online approval list rather than relying solely on the product family name.

How to Confirm the Right Oil for Your Particular Q7

Because engines, markets, and service regimes vary, the most reliable way to know exactly what your Q7 requires is to cross-check multiple authoritative sources. This ensures you match both the VW spec and the recommended viscosity to your engine code and environment.

Key steps to confirm the correct oil for your Audi Q7 include:

• Consult the owner’s manual – The lubrication section lists the exact VW specification, acceptable viscosity ranges, and whether the car is on a flexible (LongLife) or fixed interval regime.
• Check the service booklet or dealer records – These may note previous oil types used and any changes in service regime over time.
• Use the VIN or engine code with a dealer – Audi dealers can pull up the precise engine variant and region-specific requirements from the factory database.
• Use major oil-brand online selectors – Castrol, Shell, Mobil and others provide “oil finder” tools where you enter model/year/engine to receive a list of approved products.
• Verify the VW approval printed on the oil container – Look for “VW 504 00 / 507 00” (or the spec your manual lists) in the approvals section, not just marketing text about “for VW vehicles”.

Combining these checks removes guesswork and is especially important if your Q7 has been imported, modified, or is from a transitional model year where specs changed.

Oil Change Intervals and Driving Conditions

The recommended oil type is closely tied to service interval strategy. Audi Q7 models in many markets were offered with either flexible “LongLife” intervals or fixed, shorter ones. Using the correct oil specification is a prerequisite for safely running longer intervals, particularly on engines under high thermal and mechanical stress.

In general terms for modern Q7s, Audi’s guidance typically aligns with the following patterns:

• Flexible (LongLife) service – Up to around 30,000 km (18,000–20,000 miles) or 2 years between oil changes, but only when using approved long-life oils (e.g., VW 504 00 / 507 00) and under mostly gentle, consistent driving conditions.
• Fixed-interval service – Around 10,000–15,000 km (6,000–10,000 miles) or 1 year between changes, recommended for harsh use, frequent short trips, towing, or performance driving—even when long-life oils are used.
• Severe-service consideration – Owners who tow often, drive in extreme temperatures, or do mostly short urban trips typically benefit from shorter intervals than the theoretical maximum.

The oil’s condition is influenced as much by driving patterns and fuel quality as by time and distance, so conservative intervals often pay off in the long-term health of the engine and turbochargers.

Risks of Using the Wrong Oil

Choosing an oil that matches the viscosity but misses the VW approval can have subtle but serious consequences over time. With modern emissions systems and high-specific-output engines, the margin for error is smaller than it once was.

Potential risks of using non-approved or incorrect oil in an Audi Q7 include:

• Accelerated engine wear – Inadequate shear stability or high-temperature protection can increase wear on camshafts, bearings, and turbocharger components.
• DPF/GPF and catalytic converter damage – Oils with too high ash, sulfur, or phosphorus levels can poison filters and catalysts, leading to expensive repairs.
• Increased oil consumption and deposits – Incompatible additives may lead to sludge, varnish, or intake valve deposits, especially in direct-injection engines.
• Warranty and goodwill issues – Manufacturer or dealer may refuse coverage for engine or emissions-system problems if non-approved oils are used.

While occasional top-ups with similar-spec oil in an emergency are unlikely to cause immediate damage, systematically using the wrong oil undermines one of the key protective systems the engine relies on.

Practical Tips for Owners

Beyond choosing the correct specification, a few simple practices can help Q7 owners maintain engine reliability and avoid costly surprises. These steps focus on monitoring, record-keeping, and preparation for top-ups between oil changes.

Some pragmatic habits that benefit Audi Q7 ownership include:

• Keep a 1-liter bottle of the correct oil in the car – Ensures any top-up uses exactly the right spec, especially on long trips.
• Check oil level regularly – Whether via dipstick or the electronic display, especially before long journeys or heavy towing.
• Record oil type and change date/mileage – Helpful for resale value, future troubleshooting, and warranty discussions.
• Be cautious with quick-lube chains – Confirm they will use a VW 504 00 / 507 00-approved oil and are not substituting a generic 5W-30.
• Update oil choice if climate or usage changes – Moving to a significantly hotter or colder region may justify a different approved viscosity within Audi’s allowed range.

These small measures, combined with the right oil, help protect the Q7’s complex and expensive powertrain and make scheduled maintenance more predictable.

Summary

For most current and recent Audi Q7 models, the recommended engine oil is a fully synthetic product that meets VW 504 00 / 507 00, most commonly in 5W-30 or 0W-30 viscosity, with earlier models sometimes using VW 502 00, 505 01 or related specs. The critical determinant is the VW approval printed on the bottle, not merely brand or viscosity. Owners should confirm their exact requirement via the owner’s manual, VIN-based dealer guidance, or reputable oil-finder tools, and then adhere to suitable service intervals based on driving conditions. Using the correct oil—and changing it on time—remains one of the most effective ways to safeguard the Audi Q7’s engine, turbochargers, and emissions systems over the long term.

What kind of oil does a Q7 3.0 diesel take?

It will be 0w30 or 5w30.

What kind of oil goes in an Audi Q7?

Audi’s oil requirements include fully synthetic oils with specific viscosity grades and certifications to ensure optimal performance, engine longevity, and fuel efficiency. Audi oil recommendations are as follows: For all Audi Q7 model years, the recommended oil viscosity is either 5W-30 or 5W-40.

Which oil does Audi recommend?

Audi engines require full-synthetic oil, with common types being 5W-30, 0W-40, and 5W-40, though the specific type depends on the model and climate. The correct oil must meet specific Audi/VW specifications, such as VW 502 00, VW 504 00, or LL-01, which can be found in the owner’s manual. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact specification recommended for your vehicle. 
Common Audi oil types

• 5W-30: A common choice that balances fuel efficiency and wear protection, suitable for many engines in moderate climates.
• 0W-40: Excellent for cold climates because it provides better cold-start protection.
• 5W-40: Often recommended for higher-performance models and turbocharged engines, as it offers good protection in warmer climates. 

Why full-synthetic oil is crucial

• Audi engines are designed for the superior performance of synthetic oil. 
• Conventional oil can break down too quickly, leading to poor lubrication, sludge buildup, and potential damage to the engine and turbocharger. 

How to find the right oil

• Check your owner’s manual: This is the most important step, as it lists the exact viscosity and specification required for your engine. 
• Look for Audi/VW specifications: Ensure the oil you choose meets the specific Audi or Volkswagen approval number, such as VW 502 00, VW 505.00, or LL-04. 
• Consider your climate: Choose a viscosity grade that is appropriate for your local temperature conditions. 

What kind of oil does a 3.0 diesel take?

The correct 3.0L diesel oil type depends on the specific engine, but common types are 0W-20 full synthetic for the GM 3.0L Duramax and 5W-40 full synthetic for the FCA 3.0L EcoDiesel. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or manufacturer specifications, as other viscosities like 5W-30 or 0W-40 may be recommended depending on the year, model, and driving conditions. 
GM 3.0L Duramax 

• Standard: 0W-20 full synthetic oil
• Specification: Must be certified GM Dexos D
• Why 0W-20: Recommended for optimized fuel economy and cold-start performance 

FCA 3.0L EcoDiesel 

• Standard: 5W-40 full synthetic oil
• Specification: Must meet FCA Material Standard MS-12991
• Examples: Mopar part numbers 05166241PA and 05166241GA 

Other common 3.0L diesel engines

• Land Rover Td6 (2016-2021): 5W-30 full synthetic meeting STJLR.03.5005 
• Ford F-150 3.0L:
  • Normal Service: API CK-4 SAE 5W-30 or SAE 10W-30 
  • Severe Duty / Bio-diesel blends (B20): API CK-4 SAE 5W-40 
  • Extremely cold climates: API CK-4 0W-40 

Important considerations

• Check your manual: The most reliable source for the correct oil type is your vehicle’s owner’s manual. 
• Full synthetic: Many modern diesel engines require full synthetic oil for longevity and performance. 
• Manufacturer approval: Ensure the oil meets the specific material standards or certifications for your engine (e.g., Dexos D for GM, MS-12991 for FCA).