What Type of Oil Does an Audi A4 Take?

An Audi A4 typically requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets Volkswagen/Audi specification VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, most commonly in a 5W-30 or 0W-40 viscosity, depending on model year, engine, and regional climate. Drivers should always confirm the exact oil specification in the owner’s manual or on the oil-cap/under‑hood label, as using the wrong oil can affect performance, warranty coverage, and engine longevity.

Understanding Audi’s Oil Specifications

Audi doesn’t just recommend a brand or a generic “synthetic” label; it specifies precise performance standards known as VW norms (e.g., VW 502 00, VW 504 00, VW 505 00, VW 507 00). These standards define how the oil behaves under high temperature, high load, and long service intervals, and whether it’s suitable for engines with particulate filters or extended drain intervals.

Key Audi/VW Oil Norms for the A4

The following list outlines the most common oil standards you will see for modern Audi A4 models and what they mean for everyday owners and mechanics.

• VW 502 00: High‑performance gasoline engines, suitable for many A4 models without extended “LongLife” service intervals. Often paired with 5W-30 or 5W-40 fully synthetic oils.
• VW 504 00: LongLife oil for modern gasoline engines with extended service intervals; low‑SAPS (low ash) formulation that is kinder to emissions systems.
• VW 505 00 / 505 01: Primarily for older diesel engines; 505 01 is tailored for unit‑injector (PD) diesels.
• VW 507 00: Low‑SAPS LongLife oil for many modern diesel engines equipped with diesel particulate filters (DPFs); common in late‑model A4 TDIs in markets where they are sold.
• ACEA and API ratings: Oils that meet the VW spec will also display ACEA (e.g., C3) and API (e.g., SN, SP) ratings, but the VW norm is the deciding factor for Audi.

Together, these norms ensure the oil is compatible with the A4’s specific engine design, turbocharging, emissions equipment, and expected service intervals, which is more critical than any single brand name on the bottle.

Typical Oil Types by Generation and Engine

While you must confirm based on your exact VIN and manual, there are well‑established patterns in which oils are used across the main generations of the Audi A4 sold in recent years.

B8 (2009–2016, Approx.) – 2.0 TFSI and Similar Engines

The B8 A4 generation, one of the most common on the used market, spans from around 2009 to 2016 (model years and exact dates vary by region). Most gasoline B8 A4s use a 2.0 TFSI turbo engine that demands high‑quality synthetic oil.

The list below summarizes typical requirements for these engines, though local market differences and software updates can apply.

• Gasoline 2.0 TFSI: Generally VW 502 00 or VW 504 00; usual viscosities 5W‑30 or 0W‑40 fully synthetic.
• Diesel TDI variants: Often VW 507 00 low‑SAPS oil; commonly 5W‑30 fully synthetic, suitable for DPF‑equipped cars.
• Service intervals: Many cars set up with fixed intervals (e.g., ~10,000 miles / 15,000 km), while some markets support LongLife intervals with VW 504 00 / 507 00 oils.
• Climate adaptation: In very cold climates, 0W‑30 or 0W‑40 oils approved to the proper VW norm may be preferred for easier cold starts.

Owners of B8 models should treat the VW spec as non‑negotiable and use viscosity (5W‑30, 0W‑40, etc.) primarily as a tuning adjustment for climate and driving conditions within the allowed range listed in the manual.

B9 (2017–Present in Many Markets) – 2.0 TFSI / 2.0 TDI and Mild Hybrids

The B9 generation introduced more advanced turbo engines and, in later years, mild‑hybrid systems, which place even greater demands on lubricant stability and cleanliness. Many B9 A4s rely on LongLife‑type oils.

The following list captures the most common patterns for B9 Audi A4 models currently on the road.

• Gasoline 2.0 TFSI (EA888 variants): Typically VW 504 00 (LongLife, low‑SAPS) fully synthetic, usually 0W‑30 or 5W‑30, depending on region and climate.
• Diesel 2.0 TDI with DPF: Usually VW 507 00, 5W‑30 low‑SAPS synthetic oil designed to protect the particulate filter.
• Mild‑hybrid variants: Still use VW 504 00 / 507 00–type oils; the assistance of the 12V or 48V system doesn’t change the oil spec but may influence service intervals as software evolves.
• Service intervals: Up to ~30,000 km (≈19,000 mi) or 2 years in some European markets with LongLife oils; in North America, shorter fixed intervals are more common despite similar oil types.

Because the B9 range is still evolving via software updates and emissions‑related service campaigns, checking the latest dealer guidance or technical bulletins for your specific model year is especially important.

Viscosity Grades: 5W‑30 vs. 0W‑40 and Others

Viscosity grades such as 5W‑30 or 0W‑40 describe how thick or thin the oil is at low and high temperatures. Audi allows a range of viscosities, as long as the oil meets the correct VW norm. Choosing among approved viscosities can optimize cold‑start behavior, fuel economy, and high‑load protection.

Common Viscosity Options for the Audi A4

The following list highlights how different viscosity grades are generally used in Audi A4 models, assuming they also carry the proper VW 502 00, 504 00, or 507 00 approval.

• 5W‑30: The most common “default” for many modern A4 gasoline and diesel engines; balances cold‑start performance and fuel economy with sufficient high‑temperature protection.
• 0W‑30: Favors very cold climates, where quicker oil circulation at start‑up reduces wear; often used in newer LongLife setups, provided the oil meets VW 504 00 or 507 00.
• 0W‑40: Popular in regions with cold winters and hot summers, or for more spirited driving; flows easily in cold weather but remains robust at high temperatures.
• 5W‑40: Sometimes preferred in hotter climates or where engines are driven hard or have higher mileage; thicker at operating temperature, which can provide a bit of extra film strength.

Ultimately, viscosity should be chosen within the range printed in your owner’s manual, with local climate and driving style as the deciding factors—always subordinate to the required VW specification printed on the bottle.

How to Identify the Right Oil for Your Specific Audi A4

Because there are multiple generations, engines, and regional variants of the A4, confirming the exact oil type for your specific car is essential. Small differences—such as whether your engine has a particulate filter or is set up for extended service intervals—can change the required oil norm.

Steps to Confirm the Correct Oil

The following list outlines practical steps you can take to ensure you buy the right oil for your A4 and avoid relying on guesswork or generic recommendations.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look for a section labeled “Engine Oil” or “Lubricants.” It will specify a VW number (e.g., VW 502 00, VW 504 00, VW 507 00) and often list acceptable viscosity ranges for your climate.
2. Inspect the oil cap and under‑hood labels: Many A4s have a sticker or printed text direct on the oil cap or under the hood stating the VW norm required.
3. Use Audi’s official parts catalog or dealer: Provide your VIN to an Audi dealer or authorized service center; they can confirm the exact oil specification and, if relevant, whether your car is set up for LongLife or fixed intervals.
4. Verify the bottle’s approvals: When shopping, look for “VW 502 00,” “VW 504 00,” or “VW 507 00” printed on the label. Claims like “meets requirements of” are less reliable than officially certified approvals.
5. Beware of outdated or generic advice: Online forums, general auto stores, or non‑specialist mechanics sometimes recommend oils that are fine for other brands but not fully compliant with Audi’s requirements.

By following these steps, A4 owners can match the oil precisely to their engine’s needs, ensuring proper lubrication, emissions compatibility, and adherence to Audi’s service guidelines.

Top Brands and Products That Commonly Meet Audi A4 Specs

Audi does not require a specific brand, but many well‑known oil manufacturers produce lines that carry official VW 502 00, 504 00, or 507 00 approvals. Availability varies by country, so always double‑check the label in your market.

Commonly Used Oils for Audi A4 Models

The following list includes examples of widely available products that often meet Audi A4 requirements; specific product names may change over time, so check for the current approvals on the bottle.

• Castrol Edge / Edge Professional: Many variants (e.g., 5W‑30, 0W‑30) carry VW 504 00 / 507 00 approvals and are frequently used by Audi dealers in various regions.
• Mobil 1 ESP / ESP X2: Select 0W‑30 and 5W‑30 formulations meeting VW 504 00 / 507 00; “ESP” lines are designed for emissions‑system protection.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec series: Several products (such as Top Tec 4200 or 4100 in certain markets) are formulated for VW 502 00 / 505 00 and 504 00 / 507 00 requirements.
• Shell Helix Ultra / Shell Helix Professional: Some 5W‑30 oils carry VW 504 00 / 507 00 approvals, widely used in Europe and other markets.
• OEM‑branded Audi/VW oil: Sold at dealers and sometimes online; these are guaranteed to meet the carmaker’s specifications, although often at a premium price.

Rather than focusing on brand loyalty, Audi A4 drivers should treat the VW norm and viscosity as the decisive criteria, choosing any reputable product that clearly carries the necessary approvals.

Consequences of Using the Wrong Oil

Using an oil that does not comply with Audi’s specifications can have both immediate and long‑term consequences. Modern turbocharged and emissions‑equipped engines are sensitive to lubricant quality, which influences not only wear but also how cleanly the engine runs.

Potential Risks of Incorrect Oil Choice

The following list outlines the main risks that come with ignoring or approximating Audi’s recommended oil standards.

• Increased engine wear: Oil that breaks down under heat or shear can lead to accelerated wear of bearings, camshafts, and turbochargers.
• Sludge and deposits: Inferior detergency or thermal stability may cause sludge formation, clogged oil passages, and reduced performance.
• DPF and catalyst damage: Oils that aren’t low‑SAPS can poison diesel particulate filters or catalytic converters, causing expensive emissions‑system failures.
• Higher fuel consumption: Incorrect viscosity or degraded oil increases internal friction, potentially worsening fuel economy.
• Warranty and goodwill issues: During warranty or extended‑coverage claims, evidence of improper oil use can be grounds for denial of coverage.

These risks underscore why Audi’s VW oil norms are more than a formality; they’re a practical shield against costly mechanical and emissions‑related problems over the life of the vehicle.

Practical Advice for Audi A4 Owners

Beyond choosing the correct oil spec, good maintenance habits play a major role in how long an Audi A4 engine will run smoothly, especially in turbocharged and high‑output variants.

Maintenance and Change Intervals

The list below summarizes practical maintenance guidelines that complement choosing the proper oil type.

• Respect or beat the service interval: Even with LongLife oils, many independent specialists recommend changes earlier than the maximum (e.g., every 10,000 miles / 15,000 km) for long‑term engine health.
• Check level regularly: TFSI and TDI engines may consume some oil, especially at higher mileage; check the dipstick or electronic gauge and top up with the same spec oil.
• Warm‑up and cool‑down: Avoid hard acceleration when the engine is cold, and after sustained highway or spirited driving, give the engine a brief gentle period before shut‑down to help protect the turbo.
• Keep records: Document oil brands, viscosities, and change dates; this can help with resale value and any future warranty or goodwill claims.
• Use quality filters: Pair the correct oil with OEM or high‑quality filters designed to match Audi’s flow and filtration requirements.

These habits, combined with using the manufacturer‑approved oil, significantly reduce the likelihood of common issues such as turbo wear, timing chain tensioner problems, or sludge in higher‑mileage A4s.

Summary

An Audi A4 is designed to run on fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific Volkswagen/Audi norms—most commonly VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 for gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for many modern diesels—with viscosities like 5W‑30, 0W‑30, 0W‑40, or 5W‑40 chosen according to climate and manual guidelines. Owners should always verify the exact specification in their owner’s manual, on the oil cap, or through an Audi dealer using the car’s VIN. Sticking to the correct VW standard and changing the oil at sensible intervals is crucial not just for performance and fuel economy, but also for protecting turbos, emissions systems, and any remaining warranty coverage.

What kind of oil does a 2015 Audi A4 take?

For a 2015 Audi A4, the recommended oil type is a full synthetic that meets the VW 502 00 specification, with common viscosities being 5W-40 or 5W-30. Mobil 1 or Castrol EDGE 5W-40 full synthetic are popular choices that fit these requirements. Always consult your owner’s manual to confirm the specific oil quality standard and viscosity for your engine. 
Oil specifications

• Quality standard: VW 502 00 (for 2017 and earlier turbocharged gasoline engines) 
• Viscosity: 5W-40 is a common recommendation, but 5W-30 or 0W-40 may also be suitable depending on your specific engine and climate 

What to look for

• Full synthetic: Audi recommends full synthetic oil for optimal performance and longevity. 
• Correct specifications: Ensure the oil bottle clearly states that it meets the VW 502 00 specification. 
• Viscosity: Choose a viscosity grade like 5W-40 that is appropriate for your climate. 

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.

What kind of oil does a 2018 Audi A4 take?

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. 

What oil does an Audi A4 need?

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.