What type of oil does a 2012 Audi A3 take?

The 2012 Audi A3 requires SAE 5W-40. Petroleum or synthetic based oils. Engine oil must conform to the exact specification in VW publication VW 502 00. See TSB No. 17 09-07 (2012855).. The exact spec may vary slightly by engine variant — this page shows the OEM recommendation for the 2.0T, 2.0L Eng VIN E, Automatic DCT Trans configuration.

How much oil does a 2012 Audi A3 need?

The 2012 Audi A3 takes 4.80 QTS. (4.54 L) of engine oil with the filter replaced.

What happens if I use the wrong oil in my 2012 Audi A3?

Using oil that does not meet the SAE 5W-40. Petroleum or synthetic based oils. Engine oil must conform to the exact specification in VW publication VW 502 00. See TSB No. 17 09-07 (2012855). specification can reduce engine protection, increase wear, and potentially void warranty coverage. Always use oil that meets the OEM spec.

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DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.

2012 Audi A3Oil Type & Capacity

OEM spec from the factory service manual for the 2.0T, 2.0L Eng VIN E, Automatic DCT Trans variant.

Quick Answer

Oil Type

$SAE 5W-40. Petroleum or synthetic based oils. Engine oil must conform to the exact specification in VW publication VW 502 00. See TSB No. 17 09-07 (2012855).

Capacity (w/ Filter)

4.80 QTS.

4.54 L

Variant

2.0T, 2.0L Eng VIN E, Automatic DCT Trans

Note: Use only a high-quality engine oil that expressly complies with the AUDI oil quality standard specified for your vehicle's engine. Using any other oil can cause serious engine damage that will not be covered by any AUDI Limited Warranty. DO NOT mix lubricants or other additives into the engine oil. Doing so can cause engine damage. Damaged caused by these kinds of additives are not covered by any AUDI Limited Warranty. Overfilling engine oil can cause misfire DTC's to be stored in the Engine Control Module (ECM) -J220-. To prevent overfilling, add approx. 0.5 less than capacity, start engine and let it run until engine operating temperature is approx. 140Deg. F (60Deg. C), turn OFF ignition, wait approx. 3 min., check dipstick, then fill to MAX. TURBO ENGINES ONLY: After changing oil and filter, start and run engine at idle until oil pressure light goes out. DO NOT rev engine, as this could cause damage/failure of the turbocharger. Quantities are approximate. DO NOT overfill.

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2012 Audi A3: confirm the engine, trim, or drivetrain to open the available repair and diagnosis sections.

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What You'll Need

Engine Oil

$SAE 5W-40. Petroleum or synthetic based oils. Engine oil must conform to the exact specification in VW publication VW 502 00. See TSB No. 17 09-07 (2012855). for Audi A3

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of oil does a 2012 Audi A3 take?: The 2012 Audi A3 requires SAE 5W-40. Petroleum or synthetic based oils. Engine oil must conform to the exact specification in VW publication VW 502 00. See TSB No. 17 09-07 (2012855).. The exact spec may vary slightly by engine variant — this page shows the OEM recommendation for the 2.0T, 2.0L Eng VIN E, Automatic DCT Trans configuration.
How much oil does a 2012 Audi A3 need?: The 2012 Audi A3 takes 4.80 QTS. (4.54 L) of engine oil with the filter replaced.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 2012 Audi A3?: Yes — synthetic oil that meets the SAE 5W-40. Petroleum or synthetic based oils. Engine oil must conform to the exact specification in VW publication VW 502 00. See TSB No. 17 09-07 (2012855). specification is acceptable and often preferred for better protection and longer change intervals.
What happens if I use the wrong oil in my 2012 Audi A3?: Using oil that does not meet the SAE 5W-40. Petroleum or synthetic based oils. Engine oil must conform to the exact specification in VW publication VW 502 00. See TSB No. 17 09-07 (2012855). specification can reduce engine protection, increase wear, and potentially void warranty coverage. Always use oil that meets the OEM spec.