What Type of Oil an Audi A7 Takes

An Audi A7 typically requires a fully synthetic engine oil that meets Audi/VW specification VW 504 00 (for gasoline) and/or VW 507 00 (for most modern diesels), most commonly in viscosity grades like 5W‑30 or 0W‑30. The exact oil depends on the engine variant, model year, and market, so owners should confirm with the owner’s manual or dealer using the car’s VIN.

Understanding Audi’s Oil Specifications

The question of which oil an Audi A7 takes goes beyond simply picking a viscosity like 5W‑30. Audi, through parent company Volkswagen Group, uses specific approval codes (VW 504 00, VW 507 00, etc.) that define performance, additive chemistry, and compatibility with emissions systems. Using the right spec is as important as choosing the right weight.

Key Audi/VW Oil Specs for the A7

The following list explains the primary oil specifications that apply to modern Audi A7 models and what they mean in practice.

• VW 504 00: Long-life, low-ash fully synthetic oil for modern gasoline engines. Commonly used in European LongLife service regimes and suitable for many A7 TFSI engines.
• VW 507 00: Low-SAPS (low ash, phosphorus, sulfur) oil for many modern diesel engines with DPF (diesel particulate filters). Also used in some markets for mixed fleets of gasoline and diesel, but owners should check the manual.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00: Newer ultra‑low viscosity long-life oils (often 0W‑20) for select latest-generation engines, more common on very recent VW/Audi platforms. Some late-model A7 engines may specify these, especially mild-hybrid variants, but 504/507 still dominate.
• Legacy specs (e.g., VW 502 00, 505 00): Sometimes seen on older A7s or in mixed-approval oils, but for most A7 owners, 504 00 (gas) and 507 00 (diesel) are the current main standards.

In practice, choosing an oil with the exact VW approval printed on the label is the safest way to ensure compatibility with the A7’s engine, turbocharger, and emissions systems.

Typical Oil Types by Engine and Model Year

Because the Audi A7 has been offered with different engines over the years—gasoline TFSI, diesel TDI, mild hybrids and performance “S” variants—the recommended oil can vary slightly. Still, the pattern is fairly consistent.

Gasoline (TFSI) Audi A7 Models

Most gasoline-powered Audi A7 models in recent years use fully synthetic, low-ash oils approved to VW 504 00. The viscosity is often 5W‑30, though some markets and newer engines may specify 0W‑30 or 0W‑20 for efficiency and cold-start performance.

The following list outlines common oil recommendations for typical gasoline A7 engines (note: always confirm with your VIN and owner’s manual).

• 2012–2018 Audi A7 3.0 TFSI (C7 generation): Fully synthetic oil meeting VW 502 00 or VW 504 00, most commonly 5W‑30 or 5W‑40, depending on climate and market. In Europe, VW 504 00 5W‑30 long-life oil is standard.
• 2019–present Audi A7 3.0 TFSI / 55 TFSI (C8 generation, many with mild-hybrid systems): Fully synthetic oil with VW 504 00 approval in 0W‑30 or 5W‑30; some sub-variants and latest engines may specify 0W‑20 with VW 508 00/509 00, but this should be verified by VIN.
• S7 / RS 7 (performance TFSI engines): Still fully synthetic oils, typically 0W‑30 or 5W‑30, but must carry the appropriate VW/Audi approval code (often 504 00). Because these engines run hotter and under higher load, using the precise spec is particularly important.

While viscosity can shift slightly for climate and efficiency reasons, the key constant is that gasoline A7s generally rely on a VW 504 00-approved fully synthetic oil, ensuring proper protection for turbocharged and direct-injection components.

Diesel (TDI) Audi A7 Models

In markets where the A7 has been sold with diesel engines, such as many European countries, oils must be compatible with advanced emissions systems, particularly DPFs.

The following list summarizes typical diesel oil requirements for the A7 range.

• 3.0 TDI A7 (C7 and early C8 generations): Fully synthetic oil meeting VW 507 00 specification, most commonly in 5W‑30. This is a low-SAPS formulation designed to protect the DPF and catalytic systems.
• Ultra and efficiency-focused TDI variants: Also usually VW 507 00 5W‑30, sometimes 0W‑30 in colder regions or for improved fuel economy, but always with the 507 00 approval.
• High-mileage and fleet cars: Even for cars driven hard or with high mileage, Audi does not typically recommend thicker oil; instead, they insist on sticking to VW 507 00 (unless a regional bulletin says otherwise).

For diesel A7 owners, using VW 507 00 oil is essential to avoid premature DPF clogging and to maintain compliance with emissions regulations.

Viscosity Grades: 0W‑20, 0W‑30, 5W‑30 and 5W‑40

Viscosity—how thick or thin the oil is at various temperatures—is another core part of the “what oil does an A7 take?” question. Audi typically selects lower-viscosity, fully synthetic oils to boost efficiency and provide reliable cold-start lubrication.

Common Viscosity Choices

The following list explains how the most common viscosity grades used in Audi A7 models compare and when they’re typically recommended.

• 0W‑20: Very thin oil for maximum efficiency and fast cold-start lubrication. Found mainly in the newest engines designed around VW 508 00/509 00 specs. Only use if explicitly specified in your manual for your A7.
• 0W‑30: Thin, cold-weather-friendly oil that still offers adequate protection at operating temperature. Increasingly used in newer A7 gasoline engines, especially in colder climates and for long-life service intervals.
• 5W‑30: The most common all-round choice for many A7 gasoline and diesel engines under VW 504 00 or 507 00. Balances protection and efficiency for a wide range of climates.
• 5W‑40: Slightly thicker at operating temperature, sometimes permitted in hotter climates or specific legacy engines (especially earlier 3.0 TFSI) under VW 502 00/505 00 approvals, but less common in newer long-life regimes.

While multiple viscosities may be listed as acceptable, Audi’s primary recommendation—especially under warranty or service plans—is typically a 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 oil that meets the specified VW approval.

How to Check the Correct Oil for Your Specific A7

Because of running changes, different regional emissions rules, and optional equipment, the only way to be certain you’re using the correct oil is to match it to your specific car’s details, not just the model name.

Using the Owner’s Manual and VIN

Owners should rely on official documentation and vehicle-specific data, rather than generic online advice, to choose oil. The process is straightforward.

• Check the owner’s manual: Under the “Engine oil” or “Technical data” section, Audi lists the exact VW specifications (e.g., VW 504 00, 507 00, 508 00/509 00) and permitted viscosity ranges.
• Use the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): A dealer or authorized service center can input your VIN and confirm the exact engine code and corresponding oil spec, especially helpful if your A7 is a special trim or from a different market.
• Look for Audi/VW approval on oil labels: Reputable brands will state “VW 504 00/507 00 approved” (or similar) on the bottle. This is more important than broad terms like “for European cars.”
• Consult service history: If the car has been dealer-serviced, previous invoices may list the exact oil used, giving a reference point for future changes.

Following these steps ensures that you match your A7’s engine to the precise oil standard it was designed for, minimizing the risk of performance issues or warranty disputes.

Recommended Brands and Examples

Numerous oil manufacturers produce fully synthetic oils that meet Audi/VW approvals for the A7. Audi dealerships often use their own branded oil, but equivalent products are widely available in the aftermarket.

Common Oil Products That Meet Audi A7 Specs

The following examples illustrate typical oils you might find on shelves that meet current Audi A7 requirements (availability can vary by country and over time).

• Castrol Edge / Edge Professional LongLife III 5W‑30: Frequently used by Audi dealers in Europe, typically approved to VW 504 00/507 00.
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W‑30: Low-SAPS oil meeting VW 504 00/507 00; suitable for many TFSI and TDI A7 engines.
• Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV-L 5W‑30: Designed to meet VW 504 00/507 00, commonly recommended for VAG vehicles.
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W‑30: Another European favorite with VW 504 00/507 00 approvals.
• 0W‑20 VW 508 00/509 00 oils (e.g., Castrol Edge 0W‑20 LL IV): Used for select latest-generation engines where the manual or dealer explicitly specifies these ultra-low-viscosity oils.

These examples are not exhaustive, but they illustrate the pattern: look first for the VW approval code, then confirm the viscosity matches Audi’s guidance for your climate and model year.

Oil Change Intervals and Service Regimes

The type of oil an Audi A7 takes is closely linked to how often it should be changed. Audi often uses flexible “LongLife” service intervals in some markets and fixed intervals in others, depending on driving conditions and owner preference.

LongLife vs. Fixed Intervals

Oil change strategy influences both the specific oil spec and how rigorously owners should stick to the highest standards.

• LongLife service (variable intervals): In some regions, Audi allows up to roughly 30,000 km (about 18,000–20,000 miles) or 2 years between oil changes, using sensors and algorithms to adjust the interval based on driving style. This regime typically requires high-quality long-life oils like VW 504 00/507 00.
• Fixed interval service: In other markets, or by owner choice, oil changes are done at fixed intervals—often 10,000–15,000 km (about 6,000–10,000 miles) or 1 year. While the same spec oil is used, this regime offers a safety margin for severe driving (short trips, heavy traffic, towing).
• Severe conditions: Frequent cold starts, stop‑and‑go traffic, short journeys, or high-performance driving may warrant shorter intervals even if the car is on a LongLife program.

Regardless of regime, Audi emphasizes sticking to approved, fully synthetic oils, as extended intervals with lower-spec oils can accelerate engine wear and deposit formation.

Consequences of Using the Wrong Oil

Because modern Audi A7 engines are turbocharged, direct-injected, and often paired with sensitive emissions equipment, the wrong oil can have tangible negative consequences over time.

Potential Risks and Issues

Understanding what can go wrong underscores why Audi is strict about oil specifications and why owners should be, too.

• Increased engine wear: Oils without the correct additive package or viscosity can lead to accelerated wear on camshafts, turbo bearings, and timing components.
• Deposit and sludge buildup: Using oils that don’t handle high temperatures or fuel dilution well can cause deposits on pistons and valves, harming performance and efficiency.
• DPF and catalytic converter damage (diesel models): Non‑low‑SAPS oils can prematurely clog or poison emissions aftertreatment systems, leading to costly repairs.
• Warranty complications: If a major engine or emissions component fails and the wrong oil has been used, manufacturers or insurers may deny coverage.

For these reasons, it is safer to be conservative: choose oils that explicitly meet or exceed the Audi-specified VW standard, even if cheaper alternatives appear similar at a glance.

Summary

An Audi A7 generally requires a fully synthetic engine oil that meets specific Audi/VW approvals—most commonly VW 504 00 for gasoline engines and VW 507 00 for diesels, usually in 5W‑30 or 0W‑30 viscosity. Some very recent A7 engines may instead call for 0W‑20 oils approved to VW 508 00/509 00. Because engine variants and regional specs differ, owners should always confirm the correct oil via the owner’s manual or an Audi dealer using the car’s VIN. Matching both the approval code and the viscosity, and changing oil at the recommended intervals, is crucial for protecting the A7’s engine, turbocharger, and emissions systems over the long term.