What Type of Engine Oil Should You Use for an Audi A6?

Most modern Audi A6 models require fully synthetic engine oil that meets VW/Audi specification 504.00 (for gasoline) or 507.00 (for most diesels), typically in a 0W-30 or 5W-30 viscosity, but the exact type depends on engine, model year, and regional climate, so it is essential to check the owner’s manual or VIN-specific service data.

Why Engine Oil Choice Matters for the Audi A6

The Audi A6 is engineered with tight tolerances, turbocharging on many engines, and extended service intervals, all of which make oil quality critical. Using the wrong oil can increase wear, worsen performance and fuel economy, and in some cases risk damage to the turbocharger or emissions systems such as the particulate filter and catalytic converter.

Main Oil Specifications for the Audi A6

Audi and Volkswagen define their own oil performance standards that go beyond generic API or ACEA categories. The most important of these for the Audi A6 are VW 504.00 and VW 507.00, although older engines may require earlier specs.

Core VW/Audi Oil Specifications

The following list outlines the most common VW oil specifications relevant to the Audi A6 and what they typically apply to, helping owners match the right oil to their engine generation.

• VW 504.00 – Long-life fully synthetic oil for modern gasoline engines with extended service intervals; commonly 0W-30 or 5W-30.
• VW 507.00 – Low-ash “LongLife” oil for most modern diesel engines (often with DPF), fully synthetic, usually 5W-30 or 0W-30.
• VW 502.00 – High-performance oil for many older gasoline engines without extended variable service intervals; generally 5W-30, 5W-40, or 0W-40.
• VW 505.00 – Older diesel standard for non-pump-injector engines; used mainly on pre‑mid‑2000s diesels.
• VW 505.01 – Diesel standard for certain older pump‑injector (Pumpe-Düse) TDI engines; often 5W-40 fully synthetic or high‑quality semi‑synthetic.

These specifications focus on stability at high temperatures, protection under turbocharged conditions, compatibility with emissions systems, and suitability for extended drain intervals, which together define the correct oil for an Audi A6 more precisely than viscosity alone.

Typical Oil Requirements by Audi A6 Generation

Different generations and engine families in the Audi A6 range can require distinct oil specs. While only the owner’s manual or official Audi system can confirm the exact requirement, the generational overview below provides a practical orientation.

A6 C8 (2018–present)

The current-generation A6 (C8) uses advanced gasoline (TFSI) and diesel (TDI) engines, many with mild‑hybrid systems, all designed around low‑ash, long‑life synthetic oils.

• Gasoline engines (e.g., 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI) – Generally require oil meeting VW 504.00, typically 0W‑30 or 5W‑30.
• Diesel engines (e.g., 2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI) – Typically require VW 507.00 low‑SAPS oil, usually 0W‑30 or 5W‑30, compatible with DPF systems.
• S and RS models (S6, RS 6) – Still usually within VW 504.00 / 507.00 family but may recommend a slightly higher‑temperature‑robust grade like 5W‑30; always verify in the performance supplement or manual.

These engines are optimized for efficiency and emissions, and using 504.00/507.00-grade synthetics is critical to protect turbos, timing components, and complex aftertreatment systems.

A6 C7 (2011–2018)

The C7 generation marked a transition to wide use of long‑life oils and low‑ash formulations, with most engines sharing similar core requirements but some exceptions on early or high‑performance variants.

• Most gasoline engines (1.8 TFSI, 2.0 TFSI, 3.0 TFSI) – Typically require fully synthetic oil meeting VW 504.00, in 5W‑30 or 0W‑30.
• Most diesel engines (2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI) – Typically require VW 507.00, 5W‑30 or 0W‑30, especially if equipped with a DPF.
• Performance variants (S6, RS 6) – Often specify high‑quality fully synthetic meeting VW 502.00 or 504.00, often in 5W‑30 or 5W‑40; exact spec can vary by engine code.

Because the C7 spans pre‑ and post‑emissions‑regulation changes in many markets, checking your engine code or VIN‑specific data is important if the manual is unclear or if the car has been imported.

A6 C6 (2004–2011)

The C6 generation includes a mix of older oil standards and the introduction of the LongLife regimes that allow extended oil change intervals.

• Gasoline engines (2.0T, 2.4, 2.8, 3.0, 3.2, 4.2 FSI, etc.) – Often require VW 502.00 or, for LongLife service, VW 504.00, usually in 5W‑30, 5W‑40, or 0W‑40.
• Diesel engines (2.0 TDI, 2.7 TDI, 3.0 TDI) – May specify VW 505.01 (older) or VW 507.00 (newer/DPF-equipped) depending on year and engine variant.
• Extended service intervals (LongLife) – Cars configured for variable service typically require 504.00/507.00 oils; fixed‑interval servicing can use 502.00/505.01 where allowed.

Because of the overlap between standards and the age of these cars, many independent specialists now prefer high‑quality fully synthetic oils that meet or exceed VW 502.00/505.01 or 504.00/507.00, selected to match the original factory recommendation.

Older Generations (C5 and Before)

For A6 models from the late 1990s and early 2000s (C5) and earlier, oil recommendations reflect older engine technologies and emissions requirements.

• Gasoline engines – Commonly specified VW 500.00 or VW 502.00, in 5W‑40 or 10W‑40; modern replacements are usually fully synthetic 5W‑40 that meets VW 502.00.
• Diesel engines – Often specified VW 505.00 or VW 505.01, typically in 5W‑40.
• High‑mileage engines – May benefit from a slightly thicker grade (e.g., 5W‑40 vs 5W‑30) if permitted by the manual, to reduce consumption and noise.

With older A6 models, modern fully synthetic oils that meet the appropriate legacy VW specifications can provide better protection than the oils originally available when the cars were new.

Viscosity Grades: 0W‑30, 5W‑30, 5W‑40 and Climate Considerations

Viscosity describes how thick or thin the oil is at low and high temperatures. Audi’s manuals usually list several acceptable viscosities and recommend one based on climate and driving style.

Common Viscosity Choices for the Audi A6

The list below summarizes the most frequently recommended viscosities for the Audi A6 and when each is typically used, helping owners adapt to regional temperatures and usage patterns.

• 0W‑30 – Excellent cold‑start performance in very cold climates; common in newer A6 models where efficiency and quick oil circulation are priorities.
• 5W‑30 – The most common all‑round choice for modern A6 engines across a wide range of climates; balances fuel economy and protection.
• 5W‑40 – Slightly thicker at operating temperature; often used in older engines, high‑mileage cars, or hotter climates where additional film strength is beneficial.
• 0W‑40 – Offers strong cold‑start performance combined with high‑temp protection; sometimes favored for performance models or heavy motorway driving.

The correct viscosity for your A6 must always be combined with the proper VW specification—an oil can have the right “numbers” but still be unsuitable if it doesn’t meet the required VW standard.

Top Brands and Example Products Meeting Audi A6 Requirements

Many global oil brands produce products specifically approved to VW 504.00/507.00 and related standards. While brand choice is flexible, the approval code and viscosity must match your car’s needs.

Commonly Used Oils That Meet VW 504.00/507.00

The following examples highlight well-known products that typically carry VW 504.00/507.00 approvals (always confirm the exact approval on the current label or manufacturer website, as formulations can change).

• Castrol EDGE / EDGE Professional LongLife III 5W‑30 – Widely supplied by Audi dealers in Europe; usually carries VW 504.00/507.00 approval.
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W‑30 or 0W‑30 – Low‑SAPS synthetic oil designed for modern gasoline and diesel engines with DPF and catalytic converters; available with VW 504.00/507.00 approval.
• Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV-L 5W‑30 – Formulated for VW/Audi engines and often approved to VW 504.00/507.00.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W‑30 – German-made oil targeting VW Group cars; typically approved to VW 504.00/507.00.
• Motul 8100 X‑Clean+ 5W‑30 – Fully synthetic low‑SAPS oil with versions approved for VW 504.00/507.00.

These examples show that owners have multiple high‑quality options as long as the VW approval and viscosity match the vehicle’s specification; price, local availability, and service history preferences can guide the final choice.

Service Intervals and Oil Change Strategy

Many Audi A6 models, especially in Europe, were sold with variable “LongLife” service intervals, while others use fixed intervals. The oil type is a key factor in how long you can safely run between changes.

Typical Service Interval Guidelines

The list below sets out common oil change intervals for the A6, but actual schedules depend on model year, market, driving conditions, and whether the car is configured for fixed or variable servicing.

• LongLife / Variable service – Up to about 30,000 km or 2 years (around 18,000–20,000 miles) in some markets, only with oils meeting VW 504.00/507.00 and under mostly gentle driving conditions.
• Fixed service – Typically every 10,000–15,000 km or 1 year (around 6,000–10,000 miles), sometimes using 502.00/505.01 oils depending on model and market.
• Severe use (short trips, heavy traffic, high heat, towing) – Many specialists recommend shorter intervals (e.g., 10,000 km or 6,000 miles) even if the car is technically on LongLife service.
• High‑mileage or older engines – More frequent oil changes with high‑quality synthetic oils can help manage wear, sludge, and oil consumption.

While Audi’s maximum intervals are safe under test conditions with correct oil, many independent experts and owners choose more conservative change intervals to prolong engine and turbocharger life.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific A6

Because of regional variations, updates, and different engines, the definitive answer for your car comes from model‑specific documentation and official databases.

Steps to Verify the Right Oil

The following steps help you identify the officially recommended oil type for your exact Audi A6, reducing the risk of using an incorrect product.

1. Check the owner’s manual – Look for the “Engine oil” section; it will list the required VW standard (e.g., 504.00/507.00) and acceptable viscosities.
2. Look for an under-hood or service sticker – Some A6 models have a sticker in the engine bay or service booklet mentioning “LongLife” and associated oil spec.
3. Use the VIN at a dealer – An Audi dealer can input your VIN and pull factory data showing the exact engine code and recommended oil standard.
4. Consult reputable online catalogs – Major oil brands offer lookup tools where you enter make, model, year, and engine; compare their recommendation with your manual.
5. Check the bottle for VW approval – Ensure the label explicitly states “VW 504 00 / 507 00” (or the spec your manual lists), not just “recommended for” or “suitable for” VW.

Cross‑checking these sources gives you confidence that the chosen oil truly meets Audi’s requirements rather than relying solely on generic or seller claims.

Special Considerations: Tuning, Oil Consumption, and Warranty

Some Audi A6 owners modify their cars or experience specific issues such as oil consumption, both of which can influence oil choice within the boundaries of manufacturer specifications.

Tuned and High‑Performance Engines

Performance‑tuned A6, S6, or RS 6 models may run hotter or at higher boost. Many tuners still recommend staying within VW 504.00/507.00 or 502.00 but may favor slightly thicker oils (5W‑40 or 0W‑40) for track use, within what Audi allows. For any car under factory warranty, deviating from the specified VW standard risks complicating claims.

Oil Consumption and Older Engines

Some older TFSI engines and high‑mileage TDIs are known to consume oil. If allowed by the manual, moving from 5W‑30 to 5W‑40 of the same VW spec can sometimes reduce consumption. However, excessive oil use can also indicate underlying mechanical issues that require diagnosis rather than simply masking with thicker oil.

Summary

For most modern Audi A6 models, the correct engine oil is a fully synthetic product meeting VW 504.00 (gasoline) or 507.00 (diesel), commonly in 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 viscosity, while older models may require VW 502.00, 505.00, or 505.01 oils, often in 5W‑30 or 5W‑40. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or VIN‑specific dealer information, then choose a reputable brand that explicitly carries the required VW approval. Matching both the correct VW specification and suitable viscosity for your climate and driving conditions is key to protecting your Audi A6’s engine, turbocharger, and emissions systems over the long term.

What kind of oil does a 2018 Audi A6 take?

The 2018 Audi A6 uses 5W-40 full synthetic oil, specifically oil that meets the Audi/Volkswagen 502 00 specification. It’s crucial to use the correct oil to ensure proper engine protection and performance. 

• Oil Type: Full synthetic 
• Viscosity: 5W-40 
• Specification: Must meet the Audi/Volkswagen 502 00 oil quality standard 
• What this means: Look for a 5W-40 full synthetic oil that explicitly states it meets the 502 00 specification for your 2018 Audi A6. 

Which engine oil does Audi recommend?

The Correct Oil for your Audi
Audi continuously work along-side Castrol to engineer engine oil to maximize performance and reduce fuel consumption and so recommend using Castrol EDGE Professional LongLife III 5W-30 engine oil for your Audi car.

Can I use 5W-30 for Audi?

For most A4 engines, SAE 5W-40 grade motor oils are suitable, offering excellent protection in various temperatures. If this isn’t available, SAE 5W-30 or another motor oil with an alternative viscosity can be used as long as it adheres to Audi’s oil-quality standards.

What oil should I put in my Audi A6?

Castrol – EDGE 5W-30 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 Quarts (Part No. 1598B1)