What Type of Oil Does an Audi A5 Take?

An Audi A5 typically requires fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific Volkswagen/Audi standards, most commonly VW 504 00 / 507 00 with a viscosity such as 0W-30 or 5W-30, but the exact specification depends on model year, engine type (gasoline or diesel), and market. Drivers should always confirm the exact oil spec in the owner’s manual or via the VIN at an Audi dealer.

Understanding Audi’s Oil Requirements for the A5

The Audi A5 family includes a range of engines—turbocharged four-cylinders, V6s, and diesels—so there is no single universal oil for every A5 ever built. However, Audi and its parent company Volkswagen rely on standardized oil specifications (like VW 502 00, 504 00, 505 00, 507 00) rather than just viscosity grades. Matching both the approved VW spec and the correct viscosity is crucial for performance, warranty compliance, and long-term engine health.

Core Oil Specifications for Most Modern Audi A5 Models

For most newer Audi A5 models sold in North America and Europe in the last decade, Audi recommends fully synthetic oils that meet strict internal standards. These standards are more important than the brand name, and they appear as codes on the oil label.

Common VW/Audi Oil Specs for the A5

The following list highlights the most frequently required Volkswagen/Audi oil specifications for Audi A5 engines and what they are typically used for.

• VW 504 00: Long-life, low-ash synthetic oil spec primarily for modern gasoline engines with extended service intervals, common on many late-model A5 petrol engines in Europe and some other markets.
• VW 507 00: Low-SAPS (low ash, phosphorus, sulfur) synthetic oil spec designed especially for modern diesel engines with diesel particulate filters (DPF), widely used in A5 TDI models and sometimes recommended for mixed fleets (gas and diesel) in certain markets.
• VW 502 00: High-quality synthetic oil spec for many earlier-generation gasoline engines, typically with fixed (non–long-life) service intervals, common in older A5 petrol models (especially in North America).
• VW 505 00 / 505 01: Specs for older diesel engines, including some earlier TDI set‑ups; 505 01 in particular is associated with certain unit-injector (PD) diesel engines.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00: Newer ultra-low-viscosity long-life oils (often 0W-20) for the latest generation high‑efficiency engines; occasionally seen on the newest A5 models, depending on region and engine code.

These specifications govern additive packages, high‑temperature stability, compatibility with emission systems, and drain intervals. Choosing oil that matches the required VW code printed in your manual or on the under‑hood label is more critical than only matching the viscosity number.

Typical Viscosity Grades for Audi A5 Engines

Viscosity (for example, 0W-30 or 5W-40) indicates how thick or thin the oil is at different temperatures. Audi approves several viscosities as long as the VW spec is correct, and regional climate also plays a role.

The following list outlines common viscosity grades used in Audi A5 models and typical situations where they are recommended.

• 0W-30: Frequently paired with VW 504 00 / 507 00 specs on many modern European-market A5 engines, offering excellent cold-start performance along with fuel efficiency.
• 5W-30: Widely used for both gasoline and diesel A5 engines when matched to the right VW spec (504 00 / 507 00 or 502 00). This is a very common all‑around choice in temperate climates.
• 0W-20: Found on some of the very latest A5 engines requiring VW 508 00 / 509 00 oils, focused on fuel economy and low CO₂ emissions; not backwards compatible for most older engines.
• 5W-40: Used more often in earlier A5 generations or in hotter climates when the manual permits it, typically with VW 502 00 or 505 00 specs; can offer stronger film strength at high temperatures.

While many owners casually refer to oil only by viscosity, Audi’s guidance makes clear that the approved VW specification must come first, and then an allowed viscosity can be selected based on climate and usage patterns.

Differences by Model Year and Engine

The exact oil requirement can change significantly depending on when the car was built and which engine is under the hood. Audi A5 models span multiple generations, platforms, and powertrains, each with slightly different lubrication demands.

First-Generation Audi A5 (Approx. 2008–2016)

The first-gen A5 (B8/B8.5 platform) featured a mix of naturally aspirated and turbocharged gasoline engines, plus several diesel variants in different markets. Oil specs here are somewhat more varied than in the latest cars.

The following points summarize usual oil guidance for first-generation A5 models, noting that specifics still depend on engine code and region.

• Gasoline engines (e.g., 2.0 TFSI, 3.2 FSI): Commonly require oils that meet VW 502 00; in some long-life service programs, VW 504 00 may be specified. Viscosities like 5W-30 or 5W-40 fully synthetic are typical.
• Diesel engines (e.g., 2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI): Often need VW 507 00 low-SAPS oil due to the presence of diesel particulate filters; viscosities are frequently 5W-30 fully synthetic.
• Service intervals: Markets offering “LongLife” variable service intervals usually specify oils like VW 504 00 / 507 00; fixed annual/15,000 km services often accept VW 502 00 and related specs.

Because this generation includes multiple engine updates, it is important for owners to match the oil exactly to their engine code and service program, especially for high‑mileage vehicles or those with a history of oil consumption issues.

Second-Generation Audi A5 (Approx. 2017–Present)

The second-generation A5 (B9 platform and its facelifts) introduced more sophisticated turbocharged TFSI engines and updated TDIs, along with tighter emissions standards and more uniform oil specifications.

The following list outlines common practices for second-generation A5 oil choices, again subject to confirmation via the owner’s manual.

• Most gasoline A5 / A5 Sportback / S line engines: Tend to specify VW 504 00 (sometimes paired with 507 00) with a 0W-30 or 5W-30 fully synthetic oil, particularly in Europe and many global markets.
• Most modern A5 TDI diesel engines: Typically require VW 507 00 low-SAPS synthetic oil, usually in 5W-30 or 0W-30 viscosity, to protect DPFs and maintain long service intervals.
• Newer “ultra-efficiency” variants: In some markets, certain mild‑hybrid or high‑efficiency engines may call for VW 508 00 / 509 00 oils (often 0W-20). This is clearly stated in the manual if applicable and is not interchangeable with older specs.

With this generation, Audi has tightened its oil requirements with an emphasis on emissions systems and fuel economy, making it more important not to deviate from the stated VW spec, even if a different oil seems similar.

Gasoline vs. Diesel: Why the Difference Matters

Although both gasoline and diesel Audi A5 engines use fully synthetic oil, the chemical makeup required for each can differ dramatically because of emissions hardware and combustion characteristics.

Gasoline (TFSI/FSI) A5 Models

Gasoline engines are generally more tolerant of different oil formulas than modern diesels, but turbocharging, direct injection, and extended service intervals have tightened requirements.

The following points highlight typical oil needs for petrol-powered A5 models.

• Preferred spec: VW 502 00 (older models) or VW 504 00 (newer long-life programs) using fully synthetic oil.
• Viscosity: Common choices include 0W-30, 5W-30, or 5W-40, with 5W-30 being a widely used middle ground.
• Turbo protection: High-temperature stability and resistance to oxidation are up front, as turbochargers expose oil to extreme heat.
• Intake cleanliness: Modern oils compatible with direct injection help reduce deposits, which can otherwise build up on intake valves and pistons.

Using a lower-quality or wrong-spec oil in these engines can accelerate deposit formation, increase oil consumption, and in severe cases harm turbochargers or timing components.

Diesel (TDI) A5 Models

Diesel engines, especially those with a diesel particulate filter (DPF), are more sensitive to sulfur and ash content in the oil. This is why VW 507 00 is so common: it is a low-SAPS formulation designed to keep emissions systems working properly.

The following list explains what makes diesel-oriented A5 oils distinct.

• Low-SAPS formulation: Limits ash and certain additives that can clog DPFs, protecting emissions components and ensuring proper regeneration.
• VW 507 00 as a standard: This spec dominates for modern TDI engines and is almost always mandatory where a DPF is present.
• Typical viscosity: Usually 5W-30 or 0W-30 fully synthetic, balancing cold start performance with long‑distance motorway use.
• Extended drain intervals: Many diesel A5s on long‑life service plans rely on the stability and cleanliness offered by 507 00 oils to reach longer intervals safely.

Choosing a non–507 00 oil for a DPF-equipped A5 diesel may save money in the short term but can create costly emissions-system repairs later, including DPF replacement.

How to Check the Correct Oil for Your Specific Audi A5

Because specifications can vary by year, engine code, market, and even service program, the most reliable way to know “what oil your Audi A5 takes” is to reference vehicle‑specific documentation rather than generic advice.

Steps to Confirm the Exact Oil Requirement

The following steps provide a practical guide to confirming the correct engine oil for any Audi A5 model.

1. Consult the owner’s manual: Look under the “Engine Oil” or “Lubrication” section. It will list the approved VW specification numbers (e.g., 504 00 / 507 00) and usually one or more acceptable viscosities.
2. Check the service booklet or under-hood labels: Some A5 models have stickers in the engine bay or in the service booklet that clearly state the oil spec and whether the vehicle is on a LongLife service regime.
3. Use your VIN at an Audi dealer: Provide your Vehicle Identification Number to an Audi parts or service department; they can look up the exact oil specification and often the factory‑fill details.
4. Verify on reputable oil manufacturers’ websites: Major brands (Castrol, Mobil, Shell, etc.) often have “oil selector” tools where you input the model, year, and engine to see oils that meet the required VW spec.
5. Avoid assuming based on another A5: Even if a friend owns an A5, differences in year, market, or engine can mean a different spec is needed—treat each car individually.

By following these steps, owners can confidently select an engine oil that not only matches Audi’s engineering requirements but also supports warranty coverage and long-term engine durability.

Brands and Examples of Suitable Oils

While Audi itself often partners with specific oil brands (such as Castrol in many markets), any oil that is fully synthetic and explicitly meets the required VW specification is acceptable. The critical detail is the approval on the label, not the logo on the bottle.

Typical Oil Options That Meet Audi A5 Specs

The list below provides illustrative examples of oil types commonly used in Audi A5 models, but owners must still ensure the product label matches their required VW spec.

• Castrol Edge 5W-30 LL: Frequently carries VW 504 00 / 507 00 approval and is often used by Audi dealers in Europe for both gasoline and diesel models.
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30: Designed for low-SAPS applications and typically approved to VW 504 00 / 507 00, suitable for many modern A5 petrol and diesel engines.
• Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV-L 5W-30: Often formulated to meet VW 504 00 / 507 00, oriented toward VAG group vehicles with long-life service intervals.
• 0W-20 oils for new-gen engines: Products such as Mobil 1 ESP X2 0W-20 or similar may carry VW 508 00 / 509 00 approval, but only certain late-model A5 engines are designed for this spec.
• 5W-40 oils for older engines: Some VW 502 00 / 505 00-approved 5W‑40 synthetic oils (from brands like Liqui Moly, Motul, or Castrol) are appropriate for earlier A5 petrol models when listed in the manual.

These examples demonstrate that multiple brands can satisfy Audi’s requirements, giving owners flexibility, provided that they always confirm the exact VW specification and viscosity recommended for their vehicle.

Oil Change Intervals and Practical Tips

The right oil is only one part of the maintenance equation. How often it is changed, and how the car is used, also strongly affects engine longevity and reliability.

Service Intervals for the Audi A5

Audi typically offers two modes of servicing: fixed intervals and variable (LongLife) intervals, depending on market and configuration.

The following points summarize common oil-change intervals and considerations for A5 owners.

• Fixed interval service: Often every 10,000 miles (about 15,000 km) or once a year, whichever comes first, using oils like VW 502 00 or sometimes 504 00, as indicated in the manual.
• LongLife (variable) service: In some regions, oil-change intervals can extend up to roughly 18,000–20,000 miles (30,000 km) or two years, but only with approved long-life oils such as VW 504 00 / 507 00.
• Severe driving conditions: Frequent short trips, stop‑and‑go traffic, extreme temperatures, or towing can justify more frequent oil changes than the maximum interval, even with long-life oils.
• Monitoring oil level: Many A5s have electronic level sensors instead of a traditional dipstick; owners should regularly check the MMI display or cluster warnings and top up with the correct spec when needed.

Adhering to recommended intervals—and adjusting them realistically for your driving pattern—helps prevent sludge formation, timing-chain wear, turbo issues, and other oil-related failures.

Key Takeaways and Summary

An Audi A5 generally requires fully synthetic engine oil meeting specific Volkswagen/Audi standards, most often VW 504 00 / 507 00 with a viscosity like 0W-30 or 5W-30 for modern models, while older engines may use VW 502 00 or other earlier specs. Diesel variants nearly always demand VW 507 00 low‑SAPS oil due to their particulate filters. The correct oil for any given A5 depends on its model year, engine type, emission equipment, and service regime, so the owner’s manual and VIN-based dealer information should be treated as definitive.

By selecting oil that matches the exact VW specification and recommended viscosity, and by observing sensible service intervals tailored to real-world driving conditions, Audi A5 owners can protect their engines, support fuel economy, and avoid costly repairs associated with incorrect lubrication. Ultimately, the “right oil” for an A5 is not a single brand or grade, but any fully synthetic product that explicitly carries the correct VW approval printed on the label for that specific vehicle.

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 put 5W-30 in my Audi A5?

A5 2.0 TFSI engines may experience higher oil consumption and occasional oil leaks around seals. The Audi A5 2.0 TFSI requires synthetic 5W-30 oil meeting VW 502 00/505 00 standards.

How much oil does a 2014 Audi A5 take?

4.9 quarts
Engine Oil
Capacity: 4.9 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.

What is A5 engine oil?

ACEA A5/B5 oils are Upper Mainline lubricants. They are designed for use in high performance gasoline and light duty diesel engines that are specifically designed to use a low viscosity oil. These oils may be unsuitable for use in some engines.