What Type of Oil a 2014 Audi A4 Uses

A 2014 Audi A4 typically requires full-synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 specification, most commonly 5W-40 in North America and 5W-30 or 5W-40 in many other markets, depending on climate. This specification matters more than the brand, and Audi strongly recommends using only oils officially approved to VW 502 00 (or higher where applicable) to protect the engine and maintain warranty coverage.

Understanding Oil Requirements for the 2014 Audi A4

The 2014 Audi A4, sold with several engine variants around the world, is engineered to run on specific, high-quality synthetic oils that meet Volkswagen Group’s internal standards. These standards—identified by codes like VW 502 00—set minimum requirements for performance, cleanliness, and protection under high temperature and high load conditions commonly experienced by turbocharged engines.

Official Audi/VW Oil Specifications

Rather than focusing on brand names, Audi focuses on oil specifications. Knowing the correct spec is the single most important factor in choosing oil for a 2014 A4.

• VW 502 00: This is the primary required oil specification for most 2014 Audi A4 gasoline engines. It covers high-performance, full-synthetic oils designed for turbocharged, direct-injection engines.
• VW 504 00: In some regions and for extended service intervals (LongLife servicing, mainly in Europe), an oil meeting VW 504 00 may be specified. VW 504 00 is backward-compatible with 502 00 for gasoline engines, but you should follow your region’s service schedule and manual.
• VW 505 01 / 507 00 (Diesel only): If you have a diesel A4 (such as a TDI model sold in some markets), the required spec is different. Commonly, VW 507 00 is required—this is a low-ash, emissions-system-friendly oil for diesel particulate filters (DPFs).

These VW specifications guarantee that the oil has passed manufacturer testing for wear protection, engine cleanliness, and compatibility with emissions systems, making them more reliable than simply relying on generic labels like “synthetic” or “for European cars.”

Viscosity Grades: 5W-40 vs. 5W-30

While the VW spec is critical, viscosity grade (such as 5W-40) still matters for proper cold starting and high-temperature protection. Audi allows a range of viscosities based on climate and market, as long as the VW spec is met.

• 5W-40 (most common, especially in North America): Often the default recommendation for the 2014 Audi A4 2.0 TFSI gasoline engine. It offers strong high-temperature protection and is widely available as VW 502 00-approved oil.
• 5W-30: Also commonly used, especially in Europe and milder climates, provided it is certified to VW 502 00 or VW 504 00. It can offer a slight efficiency benefit, but must still meet the Audi/VW spec.
• Alternative viscosities (0W-40, 0W-30): In very cold climates, Audi may allow 0W-40 or 0W-30 as long as the oil meets VW 502 00 or 504 00. These improve cold-start performance but should always be verified against the owner’s manual or dealer guidance.

Choosing the correct viscosity within Audi’s approved range helps ensure easy cold starts, stable oil pressure, and adequate protection during hard driving or hot weather.

Gasoline Engines: Typical 2014 Audi A4 Oil Requirements

Most 2014 Audi A4s in North America and many other markets are equipped with the 2.0 TFSI turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine has well-documented oil requirements.

Standard Recommendation for 2.0 TFSI (Gasoline)

For a 2014 Audi A4 with the 2.0 TFSI gasoline engine, these are the typical requirements:

• Oil type: Full-synthetic engine oil.
• Specification: Must meet or exceed VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 where LongLife service regimes are used).
• Common viscosity: 5W-40 in North America; 5W-30 or 5W-40 in many other markets, depending on climate and local Audi guidance.
• Change interval (typical, not universal): Around 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months under normal conditions in North America, or up to 30,000 km/2 years in LongLife systems in Europe with correct oil spec—always follow the service display and local manual.

Using the correct spec and viscosity is particularly important for the 2.0 TFSI due to its turbocharger, direct injection, and known sensitivity to oil quality over long-term ownership.

Example Oils That Commonly Meet VW 502 00

Many major brands produce VW-approved oils; the key is checking the label or the official approval list, not just marketing language.

• Castrol EDGE 5W-40 (A3/B4 or Euro Car formula): Frequently VW 502 00-approved and widely used at Audi dealers in various regions.
• Mobil 1 FS 0W-40 or 5W-40 (European Car Formula): Certain variants are VW 502 00-approved; always check the back label or product data sheet.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec / Special Tec series: Several 5W-30 and 5W-40 oils are explicitly certified to VW 502 00 or 504 00 and are popular among European car specialists.
• Shell Helix Ultra, Pennzoil Platinum Euro, Motul Specific/8100 lines: These brands offer VW 502 00/504 00-approved products in compatible viscosities.

Product offerings and approvals can change, so always read the back label or consult the manufacturer’s website to confirm that the oil is officially certified to the VW specification your A4 requires.

Diesel Versions of the 2014 Audi A4

In markets where the 2014 Audi A4 was offered with diesel engines (such as 2.0 TDI or 3.0 TDI), oil requirements differ from gasoline models due to emissions equipment like DPFs (diesel particulate filters).

• Specification: Commonly VW 507 00 (low-ash, “Low-SAPS” oil) is required for modern TDI engines with DPFs.
• Viscosity: Typically 5W-30 full-synthetic, marketed specifically as VW 507 00-approved diesel oil.
• Service intervals: Often tied to variable/LongLife service regimes in Europe, up to 30,000 km or 2 years, depending on driving patterns and local guidance.

Because diesel oils must protect high-pressure fuel systems and avoid clogging DPFs, using the proper VW 507 00 spec is critical to avoid expensive emissions-component damage.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific A4

Even within a single model year, regional variations, engine options, and service schedules can affect the exact recommendation. Verifying the correct oil for your particular car is essential.

Steps to Verify the Correct Oil

To eliminate doubt, you can follow a simple set of checks before buying oil or booking a service.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look under the engine oil section. It will list the required VW oil specification (such as 502 00 or 507 00) and one or more allowed viscosities.
2. Look under the hood or on the oil cap: Many Audi models have a sticker or note on the oil cap or near the engine bay indicating the required VW spec.
3. Use your VIN with a dealer: Call an Audi dealer, provide your VIN, and ask for the official oil spec and recommended viscosity for your engine and market.
4. Check the oil container: On the back label or official data sheet, confirm the exact wording “VW 502 00,” “VW 504 00,” “VW 507 00,” etc. Marketing phrases like “meets requirements of” are not always the same as official approval.
5. Consult reputable online databases: Major oil brands often have online “oil finders” where you enter your make, model, year, and engine to see officially approved products.

Following these steps ensures that your oil choice is not just “close enough,” but formally aligned with Audi’s engineering requirements for your exact engine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the wrong oil can lead to warranty issues, increased engine wear, or problems with emissions components. Several pitfalls are especially common with European cars like the Audi A4.

• Choosing oil only by viscosity (e.g., 5W-30) without checking VW spec: Not all 5W-30 oils meet VW 502 00 or 507 00; many are designed for other manufacturers or general use.
• Using conventional (non-synthetic) oil: The 2014 A4 is designed for full-synthetic oils. Non-synthetic or “semi-synthetic” oils usually do not meet VW 502 00.
• Mixing different oils frequently: Topping off with a different spec or low-quality oil once or twice is unlikely to cause immediate damage, but repeated mixing undermines long-term protection.
• Ignoring climate considerations: In very cold or very hot regions, using a viscosity outside the recommended range can make cold starts harder or reduce protection under heavy load.
• Extending oil changes beyond recommended intervals: Turbocharged, direct-injection engines can form deposits and dilute oil with fuel. Sticking to Audi’s interval—or slightly shorter if you drive hard—is safer.

Avoiding these mistakes is an inexpensive way to preserve your engine’s longevity and avoid costly repairs, especially in a turbocharged luxury car where maintenance shortcuts can be expensive later.

Oil Capacity and Service Considerations

Knowing the approximate oil capacity and service needs can help you plan DIY changes or verify that a workshop has used the correct amount and procedure.

Typical Oil Capacity

For a 2014 Audi A4 with the 2.0 TFSI gasoline engine, the approximate oil capacity (including filter) is:

• Oil capacity: About 4.6–5.0 liters (roughly 4.9–5.3 US quarts), depending on exact engine variant and region.
• Filter replacement: Always replace the oil filter at the same time as the oil; it is designed to match the same service interval.
• Level checks: Many A4s use an electronic oil level system; follow the MMI or cluster instructions, or use the dipstick if equipped.

Exact capacity can vary slightly, so it is wise to start with slightly less than the maximum, check the level, and top off gradually to avoid overfilling.

Summary

The 2014 Audi A4 is engineered to run on full-synthetic oil that meets strict Volkswagen Group specifications, with VW 502 00 being the standard requirement for most gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for many diesels. In practice, that usually means a 5W-40 full-synthetic oil (VW 502 00-approved) for the common 2.0 TFSI gasoline engine in North America, and 5W-30 or 5W-40 meeting the same spec in many other markets. The VW specification is more important than the brand name or just the viscosity number.

To be certain for your specific car, you should confirm the required VW spec and viscosity in your owner’s manual or with an Audi dealer using your VIN, then choose a full-synthetic oil that clearly lists that VW approval on the label. Doing so protects your engine, supports proper turbo and emissions operation, and helps your 2014 Audi A4 remain reliable over the long term.

Is 5W30 oil ok 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.

Does Audi require full synthetic oil?

Both Audi and Volkswagen require full synthetic oil for all models. Unlike conventional oil, synthetic oil is engineered to: Withstand higher temperatures without breaking down, flow more efficiently in cold weather, resist oxidation, and provide better lubrication and protection for longer intervals.

Which engine oil is good for Audi A4?

The best oil for an Audi A4 is a full synthetic oil that meets the specific VW oil specification for your engine’s model year, which can be found in your owner’s manual. Common viscosities are 5W-40 or 0W-40 for older models and some modern ones, while newer engines might require 0W-20 or 5W-30 to meet specifications like VW 504 00/507 00 or VW 508 00/509 00. Always verify the correct specification to ensure proper engine protection and performance. 
How to choose the right oil

• Consult your owner’s manual: This is the most important step. It will list the specific VW oil specification (e.g., VW 502 00, VW 504 00, VW 508 00) your engine needs. 
• Check the oil container: Look for the specific VW approval number on the back of the oil bottle to ensure it’s compatible. 
• Verify viscosity: Based on the specification, you can determine the correct viscosity. Common options include: 
  • 5W-40: Often used for turbocharged gasoline engines, especially older models, and meets specs like VW 502 00. 
  • 0W-40: Another excellent synthetic choice for a wide range of temperatures. 
  • 5W-30 or 0W-20: May be required for newer models that specify a different standard like VW 504 00/507 00 or VW 508 00/509 00. 
• Choose a quality brand: Many reputable brands offer oils that meet Audi’s stringent requirements, including Castrol, Mobil 1, and Liqui Moly. 

Examples of recommended oils

• Castrol EDGE 5W-40: A popular choice that meets the VW 502 00 specification and is used in dealership services, says Steve’s Automotive Specialists. 
• Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30: Approved for VW 504 00/507 00 specifications, it’s ideal for both gasoline and diesel engines. 
• Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40: A German-engineered oil recommended for Audi engines. 
• Pennzoil Platinum Euro L 5W-30: Meets the VW 504 00/507 00 specification. 

Is Dot 4 for an Audi A4 2015?

StopTech DOT 4 Racing Brake Fluid is available in two formulations depending on the operating temperature of your vehicle: STR600 and STR660. It is engineered to give street and strip vehicles the best in braking performance.