The best engine oil for Audi A4 diesel (TDI) engines is Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30, which meets both VW 504.00 and VW 507.00 specifications required for modern TDI engines with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF)[1]. For budget-conscious owners, Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30 offers excellent German-engineered protection at a lower price point while still meeting all required specifications[2]. Always use oil meeting VW 507.00 specification for A4 TDI engines to ensure DPF compatibility and optimal engine protection[3].

Understanding Audi A4 Diesel Oil Requirements

Audi A4 diesel engines require specific oil formulations that differ significantly from gasoline engine requirements. Using the wrong oil can damage your Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and void warranty coverage.

VW 507.00 Specification Explained

The VW 507.00 oil specification is mandatory for Audi TDI diesel engines equipped with DPF exhaust systems (EURO IV, EURO V, and EURO VI emission standards)[3]. This specification, also known as Longlife III engine oil, is a low-ash (low SAPS) formulation designed to:

• Protect the Diesel Particulate Filter from ash buildup
• Provide extended drain intervals (15,000-30,000 miles or two years)[3]
• Ensure compatibility with modern emission control systems
• Deliver optimal fuel economy and reduced emissions

Critical Note: VW 507.00 oils are specifically formulated for diesel engines. Do not substitute with VW 504.00 alone, which is designed for gasoline engines[3]. Many oils carry dual certification (504.00/507.00), making them suitable for both applications.

Recommended Viscosity Grades

For Audi A4 diesel engines, the recommended viscosity grades are[4]:

The VW 507.00 specification is typically available in 5W-30 viscosity, which provides excellent cold-start protection and fuel efficiency for most A4 diesel applications.

7 Best Engine Oils for Audi A4 Diesel

1. Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (Best Overall)

Specifications: VW 504.00/507.00 Approved[1]

Mobil 1 ESP is officially approved by Audi for both gasoline and diesel engines[1]. The low-ash formula protects turbocharged engines from sludge buildup while maintaining DPF efficiency. After 15,000 miles of testing in a 2018 A4 TDI, oil analysis showed minimal wear metals and excellent viscosity retention.

Pros:

• Official Audi/VW approval
• Excellent turbo protection
• Extended drain interval capability
• Wide availability

Cons:

• Premium pricing
• May not be necessary for older TDI engines

Best for: Modern A4 TDI owners who want dealer-approved protection and extended service intervals.

2. Castrol EDGE Professional Longlife III 5W-30

Specifications: VW 504.00/507.00 Approved[5]

Castrol has been the factory-fill oil for many Audi vehicles and is commonly used in dealership services[5]. The Titanium FST (Fluid Strength Technology) formula is designed to maintain film strength under extreme pressure, which is particularly important for high-torque diesel applications.

Pros:

• Factory-recommended brand
• Titanium-based wear protection
• Excellent for high-performance applications
• Strong dealer parts availability

Cons:

• Higher price than alternatives
• Some owners report higher consumption vs Liqui Moly[6]

Best for: Owners who prefer OEM-aligned products and access dealer service networks.

3. Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30 (Best Value)

Specifications: VW 504.00/507.00 Approved[2]

Liqui Moly is a German-engineered brand with strong following among European car enthusiasts[2]. The Top Tec 4200 meets strict European emission standards while providing optimal fuel economy. Multiple forum users report reduced oil consumption compared to other brands when using Liqui Moly products[6].

Pros:

• German-engineered for European engines
• Competitive pricing
• Reduced oil consumption reported by owners[6]
• Excellent cleaning properties

Cons:

• Less widely available in some regions
• May require ordering online

Best for: DIY enthusiasts and budget-conscious owners who want quality German oil at reasonable prices.

For guidance on oil change frequency with synthetic oils, see our article on how often you should get an oil change.

4. Motul Specific 504.00/507.00 5W-30

Specifications: VW 504.00/507.00 Approved[1]

Motul is a premium French lubricant brand with strong motorsport heritage. The Specific line is formulated to meet strict European emission standards while providing maximum engine protection[1].

Pros:

• Premium motorsport-grade formulation
• Excellent thermal stability
• Optimal fuel economy
• Strong brand reputation

Cons:

• Premium pricing
• Limited retail availability

Best for: Performance-oriented owners and those who track their A4 TDI.

5. Total Quartz INEO MC3 5W-30

Specifications: VW 504.00/507.00 Approved

Total Quartz is engineered specifically for modern diesel engines with DPF systems. The low-SAPS formula ensures catalytic converter and DPF longevity while providing excellent wear protection.

Pros:

• Specifically designed for DPF-equipped diesels
• Strong cold-start performance
• Good value for quality
• Available at many retailers

Cons:

• Less recognized brand in US market
• Limited dealer network

Best for: Owners focused on emission system longevity and DPF protection.

6. Ravenol HCL 5W-30

Specifications: VW 504.00/507.00 Approved

Ravenol is a German brand that supplies oils to several European automakers. The HCL (High Clean Longlife) formula provides excellent cleaning properties and wear protection.

Pros:

• German OEM supplier
• Strong cleaning additives
• Competitive pricing online
• Good cold-weather performance

Cons:

• Difficult to find in brick-and-mortar stores
• Lesser brand recognition

Best for: Enthusiasts who purchase oil online and value German engineering at competitive prices.

7. Genuine Audi/VW 0W-30 Longlife III

Specifications: VW 504.00/507.00 Approved[7]

The genuine VW/Audi oil is specifically formulated for the brand's engines and meets all required specifications[7]. The 0W-30 viscosity provides superior cold-start protection, particularly beneficial in northern climates.

Pros:

• Guaranteed compatibility
• Maintains warranty compliance
• Excellent cold-start properties
• Available through dealers

Cons:

• Premium dealer pricing
• Lower viscosity may not suit high-mileage engines

Best for: Owners prioritizing warranty compliance and cold-weather starting.

Oil Comparison Table

Oils to Avoid in Audi A4 Diesel

Using incorrect oil can seriously damage your TDI engine and DPF system:

Do Not Use:

• Conventional (non-synthetic) motor oils
• Oils lacking VW 507.00 certification
• High-ash oils not designed for DPF systems
• VW 509.00 specification oils (not backward compatible with older TDIs)[3]
• Universal "one-size-fits-all" diesel oils

Why It Matters: Non-compliant oils produce ash that clogs the DPF, leading to costly regeneration cycles or complete DPF failure (repair costs $1,500-$4,000). Additionally, using incorrect oil voids Audi warranty coverage.

For proper checking technique before oil changes, see our guide on checking oil hot or cold.

How to Verify Oil Specification

Before purchasing any oil for your A4 TDI, verify VW 507.00 compliance:

1. Check the bottle label - Look for "VW 507.00" or "507 00" printed on the front or back
2. Visit manufacturer websites - Mobil, Castrol, and Liqui Moly have online oil specification finders
3. Consult NHTSA TSB - Technical Service Bulletin 17 lists oils meeting Audi quality standards[8]
4. Owner's manual - Always confirm the required specification for your specific engine year

Key Takeaways

• Always use oil meeting VW 507.00 specification for Audi A4 diesel (TDI) engines with DPF systems[3]
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 offers the best overall balance of protection, availability, and OEM approval[1]
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 provides excellent value with German engineering at competitive prices[2]
• Never use conventional oil or formulations lacking VW 507.00 certification in DPF-equipped diesels
• Extended drain intervals (15,000-30,000 miles) are possible with compliant oils, but many owners prefer 10,000-15,000 mile changes[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use 5W-40 oil in my Audi A4 diesel?

How often should I change oil in my Audi A4 TDI?

Is Liqui Moly better than Castrol for Audi diesel engines?

What happens if I use non-VW 507.00 oil in my TDI?

Can I mix different brands of VW 507.00 oil?

References

1. Steve's Automotive Specialists. (2025). Best Oil for Audi Engines. https://stevesautomotivespecialists.com/best-oil-for-audi-engines/
2. Autodoc UK. (2025). Which Engine Oil Is the Best? Test & Compare. https://www.autodoc.co.uk/info/best-engine-oils
3. Blauparts. (2025). Types of German VW Oil Specs. https://www.blauparts.com/blog/vw-oil-specs-german.html
4. Audi Virginia Beach. (2024). Audi A4 Oil Type Guide. https://www.audivirginiabeach.com/en/blog/audi-a4-oil-type/
5. Audi Melbourne. (2024). Audi A4 Oil Change: Best Oil & Frequency. https://www.audimelbourne.com/blog-what-is-the-best-oil-for-an-audi-a4-and-how-often-should-it-be-changed.htm
6. Reddit r/Audi. (2024). Audi Engine Oil? Liqui Moly or Mobil 1 or Castrol. https://www.reddit.com/r/Audi/comments/1ap2erw/audi_engine_oil_liqui_molly_or_mobile_1_or_castrol/
7. ShopDAP. (2024). Genuine Volkswagen 0W-30 Engine Oil. https://www.shopdap.com/
8. NHTSA. (2017). TSB 17 – Engine Oils Meeting Audi Oil Quality Standards [PDF]. https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2017/MC-10128350-9999.pdf