Best Audi A1 & S1 Oil Types, Grades, Capacities, and Service Intervals (Complete Expert Guide)

Overview of the Audi A1 and S1 Engine Family

Since its global introduction in 2010, the Audi A1 has evolved into one of the brand’s most successful premium superminis. Across its production cycles, the A1 has featured a wide array of TFSI petrol engines and TDI diesel engines, culminating in the high-performance Audi S1, a compact powerhouse known for its turbocharged agility and quattro capability.

Audi has equipped the A1/S1 range with multiple engine displacements—1.0L, 1.2L, 1.4L, 1.6L, and 2.0L—each requiring specific oil formulations engineered to support lubrication, thermal stability, emissions control, and long service life.

Below, we deliver the definitive oil guide, including oil grades, capacities, service intervals, viscosity selection, and a full model-by-model oil chart.

Why Choosing the Correct Oil for the Audi A1 Matters

Each A1/S1 engine is built around tight tolerances, advanced turbocharging systems, high-temperature operating cycles, and emissions-focused engineering. Using the correct oil is essential for:

• Reducing friction within high-precision components
• Preventing sludge, varnish, and carbon build-up
• Maintaining turbocharger performance
• Ensuring low-temperature flow efficiency
• Supporting longevity of catalytic converters and DPF systems
• Achieving optimal fuel economy and power delivery

Audi engines depend on fully synthetic oils that meet VW 504.00 / VW 507.00 specs for modern petrol and diesel units, especially on variable “LongLife” service schedules.

Audi A1 Recommended Oil Viscosity Grades

Across the full A1 and S1 engine range, three primary viscosities dominate:

5W-30 (Most Common Audi A1 Oil)

• Ideal for the majority of petrol and diesel A1 engines
• Meets VW 504.00 / 507.00 specifications
• Supports both fixed and LongLife service schedules

0W-30 (Selected Newer Engines)

• Optimised cold-start performance
• Used in specific later-generation engines

5W-40 (Less Common, Performance & Older Engines)

• Provides additional high-temperature stability
• Applicable to certain early TFSI or TDI variants depending on region

For nearly all 2010–2018 A1 and S1 models, 5W-30 fully synthetic remains the correct and safe choice.

Audi S1 Oil Requirements (High-Performance Grade)

The Audi S1 2.0 TFSI borrows engineering philosophy from larger Audi performance vehicles and demands high-quality synthetic oils that maintain stability under extreme pressure.

Recommended S1 Oil:

• 5W-30 fully synthetic
• VW 504.00 specification
• High-temperature oxidation resistance
• Maximum turbocharger protection

The S1’s turbocharged 2.0 TFSI engine generates 228 bhp and 370 Nm, so consistent oil quality is crucial for maintaining boost reliability and internal lubrication.

Audi A1 Oil Change Intervals

Audi offers two service strategies:

How to Reset TPMS on Audi A1: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for All Models

Fixed Service Interval

• Every 15,000 km OR 1 year
• Best for drivers who make short trips, urban commutes, or frequent cold starts
• Uses standard high-quality 5W-30 oil

LongLife Flexible Interval

• Up to 30,000 km OR 2 years
• Recommended for long-distance driving where the engine regularly reaches operating temperature
• Requires VW-approved LongLife 504/507 oils
• On-board diagnostics evaluate oil degradation based on driving patterns

Pro Tip:
Start with a LongLife schedule; if your usage triggers oil changes at ~15,000 km, switch to the fixed interval to save on oil costs.

Audi A1 Oil Capacity Guide

Typical oil capacities for the A1 range:

Always check the dipstick or MMI system after refill.

Choosing the Correct Oil Specification

Your A1 oil must meet one of the following:

• VW 504.00 (petrol LongLife)
• VW 507.00 (diesel + DPF systems)
• ACEA C3 low-SAPS oil
• Fully synthetic
• Extended-drain certified (for LongLife engines)

This ensures compatibility with emissions systems, turbochargers, and variable service intervals.

Full Audi A1 and S1 Oil Grade Chart (2010–2018)

Below is the complete rebuilt oil guide extracted and structured for clarity and ranking performance.

All models listed use the same recommended grade:

→ 5W-30 Fully Synthetic (VW 504/507 Approved)

Audi A1 Amplified Edition (Petrol & Diesel)

• 1.4 TFSI – 2010–2018 → 5W-30
• 1.6 TDI – 2010–2018 → 5W-30
• 2.0 TDI – 2010–2018 → 5W-30

Audi A1 Black Edition

• 1.4 TFSI – 2010–2018 → 5W-30
• 1.6 TDI – 2010–2018 → 5W-30
• 2.0 TDI – 2010–2018 → 5W-30
• 1.0 TFSI – 2010–2018 → 5W-30

Audi A1 Black Edition Nav

Same engines as above → 5W-30

Audi A1 Competition Line

• 1.4 TFSI – 5W-30
• 1.6 TDI – 5W-30

Audi A1 Contrast Edition / Contrast Edition Plus

• 1.2 TFSI – 5W-30
• 1.4 TFSI – 5W-30
• 1.6 TDI – 5W-30
• 2.0 TDI – 5W-30

Audi A1 S Line / S Line Nav / S Line Style Edition

• 1.2 TFSI – 5W-30
• 1.4 TFSI – 5W-30
• 1.0 TFSI – 5W-30
• 1.6 TDI – 5W-30
• 2.0 TDI – 5W-30

Audi S1 (All Variants)

• 2.0 TFSI – 5W-30 (High-performance Fully Synthetic)

This covers:

• S1 Competition
• S1 Competition Nav
• S1 Nav
• S1 Standard

Every variant = 5W-30.

How to Reset TPMS on Audi A1: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for All Models

Audi A1 Tyre Size: The Complete, No-Nonsense Guide for Every Generation

Common Symptoms of Incorrect Oil in an Audi A1

Using the wrong oil viscosity or specification can cause:

• Ticking or tapping noises on cold start
• Poor turbo spool or whistle
• Rough idle
• Increased fuel consumption
• Sluggish acceleration
• Engine warning lights (especially on TDI models with DPFs)
• Excessive exhaust smoke
• Oil consumption spikes

If any of these appear after an oil change, have the oil replaced with the correct VW-approved grade.

How to Check Oil Level on the Audi A1

The A1 uses either a dipstick or the MMI system depending on the model year.

Dipstick Models

1. Park on level ground
2. Allow 5 minutes after shutdown
3. Pull dipstick → wipe → reinsert → check level
4. Maintain between MIN and MAX marks

MMI Oil Level Display

Access through:
Car → Service & Checks → Oil Level

Never top up immediately after driving; always wait for oil to drain back into the sump.

Top Oil Brands Suitable for the Audi A1 & S1

We recommend the following VW-approved oils:

• Castrol Edge 5W-30 LL
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30
• Shell Helix Ultra Professional AV-L 5W-30
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30
• Motul Specific 504/507 5W-30

These provide proven stability for turbocharged TFSI and DPF-equipped TDI engines.

Audi A1 Oil Filter Recommendations

Pair your oil with high-quality filters:

• Mann
• Mahle
• Bosch
• Hengst

Premium filters ensure clean oil circulation and DPF protection.

Audi A1 DIY Oil Change Difficulty

The A1 is considered easy to service:

Difficulty: 3/10
Tools required:

How to Reset TPMS on Audi A1: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for All Models

Audi A1 Tyre Size: The Complete, No-Nonsense Guide for Every Generation

How to Reset the Audi A1 Service Light: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

• Torx bits
• 32mm filter cap socket
• Drain pan
• Funnel
• New crush washer
• Oil filter
• 4–5 L of 5W-30 oil

Time required: 20–35 minutes

Final Thoughts

The Audi A1 and S1 engine family depends on precision, and choosing the correct 5W-30 fully synthetic oil ensures long-term reliability, turbocharger health, and efficient daily performance. Use VW-approved formulations, follow fixed or LongLife service intervals based on your driving habits, and reference the comprehensive model chart above to confirm the correct grade.

If you want to know other articles similar to Best Audi A1 & S1 Oil Types, Grades, Capacities, and Service Intervals (Complete Expert Guide) you can visit the category Service and Parts.