Which Oil Does Audi Recommend?

Audi generally recommends fully synthetic engine oils that meet specific Volkswagen/Audi (VW) standards such as VW 504 00 / 507 00, rather than a single brand or viscosity for every model. The exact oil type depends on the engine, model year, and region, and Audi instructs owners to use oil that matches the VW approval code listed in the owner’s manual and on the oil-cap label.

How Audi Specifies Engine Oil

Instead of recommending only one manufacturer, Audi defines technical standards (VW norms) that any approved oil must meet. This approach gives drivers some flexibility in brand choice as long as the oil carries the correct VW approval marking.

Key VW/Audi Oil Standards

The following list outlines the most common Volkswagen/Audi oil specifications encountered on modern Audi vehicles and what they are generally used for.

• VW 504 00 / 507 00 – The most common modern long-life oil spec for many gasoline and diesel Audi engines in Europe and many global markets; typically in 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 fully synthetic formulations.
• VW 502 00 – High-performance gasoline engine spec often used on earlier models or where fixed (non–long-life) service intervals are applied.
• VW 505 01 – Older diesel spec, especially for pump‑duse (PD) TDI engines; largely relevant to legacy models now.
• VW 508 00 / 509 00 – Newer low‑viscosity long-life oil spec (commonly 0W‑20) used on the latest generation, high‑efficiency Audi gasoline and diesel engines, especially in Europe.
• Region‑specific approvals – North American models may also list API (e.g., API SP), ILSAC, or ACEA ratings alongside the VW spec on the manual or underhood label.

These standards matter more than the label on the bottle; any oil that clearly states compliance with the required VW norm is, in principle, acceptable for that engine.

Typical Oil Recommendations by Audi Model Type

While each specific Audi has its own official recommendation, there are patterns by model family and generation that help owners understand what to look for on the shelf or at the service counter.

Modern Gasoline Audi Models (A3, A4, A5, Q3, Q5, etc.)

Most recent Audi gasoline models outside North America are factory‑filled with low‑ash, long‑life oil. The following points reflect the general guidance Audi dealerships follow.

• Primary spec: VW 504 00 (often paired with 507 00 on the bottle).
• Viscosity: Commonly 0W‑30 or 5W‑30 fully synthetic, depending on climate and engine design.
• Service intervals: Designed for variable or extended intervals where “LongLife” servicing is enabled (often up to ~30,000 km / 2 years in some markets, but usually shorter in real-world driving).
• North America: Many late‑model gasoline Audis in the U.S. and Canada specify 0W‑20 or 5W‑30 synthetic oils that meet VW 508 00 or 504 00, alongside API/ILSAC ratings.

Even within these patterns, Audi stresses that owners rely on the exact VW spec printed in their service literature or on the under‑hood sticker.

Modern Diesel Audi Models (TDI)

For current and recent TDI diesel engines, Audi oil choice is shaped by emissions systems such as particulate filters and NOx control, making the correct low‑ash formulation essential.

• Primary spec: VW 507 00 or combined 504 00 / 507 00, designed for engines with diesel particulate filters (DPF).
• Viscosity: Typically 5W‑30 or 0W‑30 fully synthetic, depending on climate and emission system requirements.
• Extended service: These oils are usually compatible with long‑life service intervals, provided maintenance is tracked by the car’s onboard service indicator.
• Older TDIs: Pre‑DPF or early PD engines may require VW 505 01 or VW 505 00; mixing newer and older specs without checking the manual can be risky.

Using the correct diesel spec helps protect expensive emissions hardware and maintains fuel economy and reliability over high mileages.

High‑Performance Audi S and RS Models

Performance‑tuned engines in S and RS models often run hotter and at higher loads, so oil choice becomes particularly critical. Audi typically specifies higher‑performance formulations under familiar VW norms.

• Common specs: VW 502 00 or VW 504 00 (and, for some high‑output diesels, VW 507 00).
• Viscosity: Frequently 0W‑30, 0W‑40, or 5W‑40 fully synthetic, depending on model and region—thicker oils may be specified for extreme use or hot climates.
• Track use: For cars used on racetracks or under sustained high load, Audi dealers may recommend oils with higher high‑temperature high‑shear (HTHS) stability, still within the approved VW spec.
• Warranty sensitivity: On new RS models, Audi is particularly strict that oil must meet the exact VW norm listed, to preserve warranty coverage.

Because performance models push lubrication systems to their limits, owners are strongly advised to follow Audi’s official specification and service schedules without improvisation.

Recommended Brands vs. Required Specifications

Many owners ask for a specific brand name, but Audi focuses on technical standards rather than promoting a single label. Nonetheless, certain brands are commonly used by dealers and independent specialists.

Brands Commonly Used in Audi Service Networks

The following brands frequently supply oils that meet VW 504 00 / 507 00 and other Audi norms, but availability varies by country and dealer contracts.

• Castrol – Historically a prominent partner; many Audi dealers use Castrol Edge or equivalent lines that carry VW 504 00 / 507 00 approvals.
• Mobil 1 – Offers multiple fully synthetic oils with VW approvals, such as formulations meeting 504 00 / 507 00 or 508 00 / 509 00.
• Shell (Helix/Ultra) – Shell’s premium synthetic lines often include variants certified to VW norms used by Audi engines.
• Liqui Moly – Popular in Europe and among enthusiasts; markets “Top Tec” and other series explicitly labeled with VW standards.
• Motul – Known for performance‑oriented oils; offers dedicated products meeting VW 502 00 / 505 00 and 504 00 / 507 00 specs.

Any of these brands can be suitable for an Audi engine as long as the exact VW approval code on the bottle matches the code specified by Audi for that vehicle.

Viscosity Choices and Climate Considerations

Within the approved VW specifications, Audi allows for different viscosities depending on climate and engine design, and the wrong viscosity can affect cold starts, fuel economy, and protection.

Common Viscosity Grades for Audi Engines

The following viscosity ratings are commonly recommended across the Audi portfolio under the relevant VW norms.

• 0W‑20 – Used with the newer VW 508 00 / 509 00 spec on latest-generation efficient engines, especially in markets prioritizing fuel economy.
• 0W‑30 / 5W‑30 – The prevalent choice under VW 504 00 / 507 00 for modern gasoline and diesel engines, balancing cold‑start performance with protection.
• 0W‑40 / 5W‑40 – Often found on older engines or high‑performance models, especially in hotter climates or where extra high‑load protection is desired.
• 5W‑40 / 10W‑40 (legacy) – Historically specified for older gasoline and diesel engines before the current low‑ash, long‑life oils became standard.

Audi advises selecting viscosity based on the chart in the owner’s manual, which maps temperature ranges to acceptable grades for a specific engine.

How to Identify the Right Oil for Your Audi

Because Audi’s global lineup spans many engines and years, the most reliable answer for any one car is found in the documentation that came with it and the labels on the vehicle itself.

Steps Owners Should Take Before Buying Oil

The following steps help ensure the oil you purchase or request at a workshop is exactly what Audi specifies for your particular car.

1. Consult the owner’s manual: Look for the section on engine oil; note the required VW specification (e.g., VW 504 00 / 507 00) and any listed viscosity.
2. Check the oil fill cap and under‑hood stickers: Many modern Audis include the VW oil norm on the filler cap, a label near the radiator support, or inside the service booklet.
3. Match the VW code on the bottle: When buying oil, confirm that the packaging explicitly states “VW 504 00 / 507 00” (or the relevant spec); “recommended for” wording is not the same as “approved to.”
4. Consider your region and fuel type: North American models may have slightly different recommendations (for example, more 0W‑20 usage) than European counterparts with the same model name.
5. Verify with a dealer if in doubt: For cars under warranty or high‑performance models, a quick VIN‑based check at an Audi dealer can confirm the exact specification.

By following these steps, drivers minimize the risk of using an incompatible oil that could affect engine longevity or jeopardize warranty coverage.

Why Using the Correct Audi‑Approved Oil Matters

Modern Audi engines, especially those with turbocharging and advanced emissions controls, place heavy demands on lubricants, making the approved formulation crucial rather than optional.

Consequences of Incorrect Oil Use

The following potential issues illustrate why Audi stresses adherence to VW lubrication norms.

• Accelerated engine wear: Oils lacking the right high‑temperature stability or shear resistance can thin out, reducing protection for bearings, turbochargers, and valvetrain components.
• Sludge and deposits: Inadequate detergents or mismatched formulations increase the risk of sludge build‑up, sticking piston rings, and clogged oil passages.
• Emissions system damage: Non‑low‑ash oils in DPF‑equipped diesels can shorten particulate filter life and affect NOx aftertreatment components.
• Fuel economy loss: Oils outside the designed viscosity or friction profile can marginally but measurably increase fuel consumption.
• Warranty complications: Documented use of non‑approved oils can give manufacturers grounds to challenge warranty claims for lubrication‑related failures.

Using an oil that clearly meets the specified VW norm is therefore both a technical and financial safeguard for Audi owners.

Summary

Audi does not mandate a single universal oil brand but recommends fully synthetic oils that comply with specific Volkswagen/Audi standards—most notably VW 504 00 / 507 00 for many modern gasoline and diesel engines, and VW 508 00 / 509 00 for some newer, high‑efficiency units. The precise recommendation varies by model, engine, year, and market, and is detailed in the owner’s manual and on vehicle labels. Owners are advised to choose any reputable brand whose product explicitly carries the required VW approval code and appropriate viscosity for their climate and driving conditions. This adherence protects engine health, preserves emissions systems, and supports warranty coverage.

Why is an Audi oil change so expensive?

Firstly, Audi vehicles typically require synthetic oil, which is pricier than conventional options. This synthetic oil offers superior performance and protection, essential for high-performance engines found in many Audi models. Additionally, the specialized filters designed specifically for Audi cars add to the cost.

Is Mobil 1 ok for Audi?

Choose Mobil 1™ motor oil for your Audi
We offer a full range of synthetic and synthetic blend motor oils to keep your engine in peak condition throughout its lifetime.

What brand of oil does Audi recommend?

Audi recommends using oils that meet their specific specifications, frequently recommending Castrol EDGE Professional LongLife III 5W-30 and other synthetic oils that meet VW standards like Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30. While Castrol is a common recommendation, other brands like Mobil 1, Valvoline, and Liqui Moly also have options that meet Audi’s specifications, such as Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 or Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40. It is crucial to check your owner’s manual or use an oil finder tool to ensure the oil’s specifications match your specific engine. 
Commonly recommended brands and products

• Castrol: Often recommended for its high performance and adherence to VW standards. A specific example is Castrol EDGE Professional LongLife III 5W-30. 
• Mobil 1: Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30 is recommended for its excellent wear protection and engine cleanliness. Mobil 1 0W-40 is another option that meets Audi’s requirements. 
• Liqui Moly: Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 is another well-regarded option known for its high lubrication reliability. 

Important considerations

• Check your owner’s manual: Always consult your owner’s manual or use an online oil finder tool to determine the specific oil viscosity grade and specification (e.g., VW504, VW507) for your vehicle. 
• Use synthetic oil: Modern Audi engines, especially turbocharged ones, require the protection of synthetic oil. 
• Don’t overfill: When adding oil, be careful not to overfill, as this can cause severe engine damage. 

Do Audis need special 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.