What Type of Oil Does a 2019 Audi A3 Take?

A 2019 Audi A3 typically requires full synthetic engine oil that meets the VW 502 00 (for gasoline) or VW 507 00 (for diesel) specification, most commonly in a 5W-40 or 0W-40 viscosity for gasoline engines, depending on climate and specific engine variant. Audi emphasizes using oils that comply with its own VW standards rather than just generic viscosity grades.

Why Oil Specification Matters for the 2019 Audi A3

The 2019 Audi A3 is a turbocharged, tightly engineered vehicle whose engine relies heavily on high‑quality lubricants. Modern Audi engines run hot, use turbochargers, and have precise internal tolerances; using the correct oil is key to maintaining performance, emissions compliance, and warranty protection.

Official Oil Specifications for the 2019 Audi A3

For owners and technicians, the most important factor is whether the oil meets Audi/Volkswagen’s proprietary standards. These internal specifications go beyond basic API or ACEA ratings to address turbocharger protection, sludge resistance, and long-drain intervals common in European vehicles.

• Gasoline engines (most North American 2019 A3 models): Require oil that meets VW 502 00 specification.
• Diesel engines (offered in some markets outside North America): Typically require oil that meets VW 507 00 specification (low-ash, DPF-friendly).
• Viscosity commonly recommended: 5W-40 full synthetic for many climates; 0W-40 may also be used, especially in colder environments, if it still meets the correct VW spec.
• Primary requirement: The VW spec (502 00 or 507 00) printed on the bottle is more important than brand, as long as it’s a full synthetic oil from a reputable manufacturer.
• Manual confirmation: The exact specification and viscosity for your specific engine code are outlined in the owner’s manual and service booklet, which should always be treated as the final authority.

In practice, this means Audi A3 owners should shop by the VW approval code first, then choose a viscosity appropriate to their climate, relying on the owner’s manual and service labels under the hood for confirmation.

Common Engine Variants and Typical Oil Choices

The 2019 Audi A3 was sold with different engines depending on region and trim, including standard gasoline TFSI units and, in some markets, diesel TDI engines. While exact recommendations can vary slightly by engine code, there are broadly accepted norms for the model year.

Gasoline (TFSI) Models

Gasoline A3 models, including 1.4 TFSI / 1.5 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI variants, are usually the most common. These engines are direct-injected and turbocharged, placing extra stress on the oil, especially under spirited driving.

• Specification: VW 502 00 (or VW 504 00 in some long-life service markets, if specified by Audi locally).
• Viscosity: Typically 5W-40 full synthetic; in very cold climates, 0W-40 might be listed as an acceptable alternative, provided it carries the correct VW approval.
• Oil examples (check label for VW 502 00): Many European-formulation synthetics from brands like Castrol, Motul, Liqui Moly, Mobil, and Shell offer VW 502 00-approved products in 5W-40 or 0W-40.
• Usage pattern: Short trips, stop‑and‑go traffic, or hard driving can justify staying at or below the upper limit of the recommended service interval, even with the correct oil.

Using a 502 00‑approved full synthetic in the recommended viscosity helps protect turbo components, minimize deposits on valves and injectors, and maintain fuel economy and performance.

Diesel (TDI) Models

In Europe and some other markets, the 2019 Audi A3 was also available with diesel engines. These engines often use exhaust after-treatment systems such as diesel particulate filters (DPF), which demand low-ash oils.

• Specification: Typically VW 507 00, a low-SAPS (low-ash) oil designed for DPF longevity.
• Viscosity: Often 5W-30 or occasionally 0W-30, depending on region and climate guidance in the manual.
• DPF compatibility: 507 00 oil reduces ash and sulfur content, which helps prevent filter clogging and maintains emissions compliance.
• Long-life service: Some markets enable extended drain intervals with 507 00 oil under “LongLife” service regimes, though many owners still choose more conservative intervals.

For diesel A3 owners, the 507 00 designation is critical; using non‑approved oil can accelerate DPF issues and may jeopardize emissions system warranties.

How to Confirm the Correct Oil for Your Specific Car

Although general guidelines are reliable, each car’s build sheet and regional documentation can introduce small differences. Verifying for your specific VIN helps avoid mistakes, especially if the car was imported or modified.

• Owner’s manual: The engine oil section lists both the VW specification (e.g., 502 00, 507 00) and the recommended viscosity grades for different temperature ranges.
• Service booklet / under‑hood labels: Some A3 models include stickers under the hood or near the oil fill cap referencing the VW spec.
• VIN-based dealer check: An Audi dealer can look up the exact engine code and confirm the correct oil spec for your car’s market and software configuration.
• Online parts catalogs: Audi or VW parts databases, when queried with your VIN or engine code, usually list compatible approved oils.

Taking a moment to match your engine code and manual with the specification on the oil bottle ensures your oil choice is not just approximate but fully compliant with Audi’s design and warranty requirements.

Oil Change Intervals and Practical Tips

The correct oil is only part of the equation; how often it’s changed and how you maintain the car also affect engine health. While Audi provides official intervals, many technicians recommend a more conservative approach, especially for turbocharged engines.

• Typical interval: Many markets specify up to around 10,000 miles (15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for normal service when using approved long‑life oils.
• Severe use: Frequent short trips, heavy traffic, high temperatures, or spirited driving may justify shorter intervals (e.g., 5,000–7,500 miles / 8,000–12,000 km).
• Filter replacement: Always replace the oil filter with every oil change, using a quality filter that meets or exceeds Audi’s specs.
• Oil level checks: Regularly monitor oil level via dipstick or MMI (depending on market/equipment) between services; turbo engines can consume small amounts of oil over time.
• Warm-up habits: Avoid hard acceleration until the engine and oil are fully warmed, which significantly reduces wear on turbo and internal components.

Aligning correct oil type with sensible change intervals and driving habits greatly improves the likelihood that a 2019 Audi A3 will remain reliable and efficient well beyond its warranty period.

Key Takeaways for 2019 Audi A3 Owners

The core message is straightforward: choose oil that carries the correct VW approval code, then match viscosity to climate and driving conditions based on Audi’s recommendations.

• Gasoline 2019 A3: Use full synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00, commonly in 5W-40 (or 0W-40 where permitted by the manual).
• Diesel 2019 A3: Use full synthetic low‑ash oil meeting VW 507 00, often in 5W-30 (or a listed alternative in cold climates).
• Specification over brand: The VW code on the bottle is more critical than the logo on the front, provided the oil is from a reputable manufacturer.
• Check your manual: For your exact engine and region, the owner’s manual and service documentation remain the definitive authority.
• Don’t overextend intervals: Even with premium oils, erring slightly on the side of more frequent changes is a common practice among Audi specialists.

By focusing on official VW specifications, proper viscosity, and sensible maintenance intervals, owners can ensure their 2019 Audi A3’s engine remains protected, efficient, and ready for long-term use.

Summary

The 2019 Audi A3 is engineered to run on full synthetic oil that meets strict Volkswagen Group standards. Most gasoline versions require VW 502 00 oil, typically in 5W-40 or 0W-40, while diesel variants generally need VW 507 00 low‑ash oil, often in 5W-30. Audi places priority on meeting these VW approval codes over any particular brand name. Owners should confirm the exact specification and viscosity in their owner’s manual and follow reasonable oil change intervals—often no longer than about 10,000 miles or 12 months—to keep the turbocharged engine performing as designed.

Is 5W-30 ok for Audi?

Yes, many Audis can use 5W-30 oil, especially if it meets the VW/Audi oil quality standards specified for your engine, which you can find in your owner’s manual. While 5W-30 is often the recommended viscosity for moderate climates, other viscosities like 0W-40 or 5W-40 may be recommended for certain conditions or high-performance models. 
When 5W-30 is a good choice 

• Moderate climates: 5W-30 is a common recommendation that provides a good balance of fuel efficiency and engine protection in moderate temperatures. 
• Specific models: It is often specified for a wide range of Audi models, including some A3, A4, and A7 models. 
• Meets specifications: As long as the oil is a full synthetic and meets the specific VW/Audi oil quality specification (e.g., VW 502 00 or VW 504 00), it can be used. 

When to consider other options

• Cold weather: For better cold-start protection, 0W-30 or 0W-40 may be a better choice, especially in colder climates. 
• Warm or high-performance engines: 5W-40 may be recommended for high-performance engines or to provide extra protection in hotter climates. 
• Vehicle-specific needs: Always check your owner’s manual for the most accurate information for your specific model year and engine, as recommendations can vary. 

What kind of oil does a 2019 Audi take?

Castrol EDGE Full Synthetic Engine Oil 5W-40 1 Quart.

What oil does my Audi A3 use?

It’s usually recommended for most A3 cars to use 5W-30 oil, but this may change depending on your exact model and how old it is.

What kind of oil does a 2019 Audi A3 take?

Oil Viscosity Recommendations
Audi A3 engines typically require: SAE 5W-30: Ideal for a wide range of temperatures and common for most Audi engines. SAE 5W-40: Provides additional protection in warmer climates or for turbocharged engines. SAE 0W-30: Suitable for cold weather and newer Audi models with advanced engines.