For the 2016 Audi A8 Quattro with the 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel turbo engine (Engine Code CPNB), the required oil capacity is 6.8 quarts with a filter change. The recommended viscosity is 5W-30. AMSOIL recommends using AMSOIL 5W-30 LS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil (AELQT-EA) to meet the unique demands of this European diesel engine.
What oil does a 2016 Audi A8 Quattro 3.0L Diesel take?
The 2016 Audi A8 Quattro with the CPNB engine requires an oil viscosity of 5W-30 for all temperatures. The AMSOIL lookup notes that if a synthetic oil meeting the applicable Audi/Volkswagen quality standard with this viscosity is unavailable, you should select a grade suitable for your specific climate and operating conditions while ensuring it meets listed Audi/Volkswagen standards.
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the vehicle specifications, AMSOIL provides several high-performance lubrication and maintenance options for your Audi A8 Quattro.
Engine Oil & Filters
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL 5W-30 LS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil | AELQT-EA |
Note: No specific oil filter or air filter recommendations are available from the source data.
Coolant & Antifreeze
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant | ANTPC1G-EA |
| AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant | ANT1G-EA |
Transmission & Differential Fluids
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | ATLPK-EA |
| AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | OTLQT-EA |
| AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube | FGRQT-EA |
Brake Fluid & Additives
| Product Name | Code |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid | BFLVCN-EA |
Engine Oil Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Lookup Oil Grade | SEO06 |
| Viscosity | 5W-30 (All TEMPS) |
| OEM Quality Standard | Audi, Volkswagen standards (as listed in manual) |
Engine Oil Capacity & Torque
| Component | Capacity / Torque |
|---|---|
| Oil Capacity (with filter) | 6.8 quarts |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22 ft/lbs |
Maintenance Note: Always replace the drain plug seal when performing an oil change and check the oil level after refilling.
How much transmission and differential fluid is required?
The 8-speed automatic transmission (0BK) has a total fill capacity of 9.1 quarts, while the initial fill is approximately 3.8 quarts. Both the front and rear differentials for this vehicle require 1.9 pints of lubricant.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) Details
| Specification | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Initial Fill | 3.8 quarts (varies 3.6-4.0L / 3.8-4.2 Quarts) |
| 8-speed 0BK Total Fill | 9.1 quarts |
The AMSOIL lookup references the transmission code 0BK….SL016 for this application.
Differential Lubricant Specifications
| Location | Capacity (with 0BK) |
|---|---|
| Front Differential | 1.9 pints |
| Rear Differential | 1.9 pints |
The AMSOIL lookup note references Audi/VW part numbers G 052 145 A1, G 052 145 A2, and G 052 145 S2 (noting that A2 was superseded by S2).
Coolant and Brake Fluid Specifications
The cooling system requires a capacity of 12.7 quarts. For braking, the vehicle uses hydraulic brake fluid meeting DOT 4 standards.
Coolant Capacity
| Component | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Engine Coolant | 12.7 quarts |
The AMSOIL lookup lists ANTPC1G-EA (50/50 pre-mix) and ANT1G-EA (Concentrate) for this application.
Brake Fluid Details
| Requirement | Note |
|---|---|
| Fluid Type | Hydraulic Brake Fluid, DOT 4 (P/N B 000 750 M3) |
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL product from this lookup | How it may help | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turbocharger Protection | High heat and speed in turbo systems can degrade oil. | AELQT-EA | Designed for unique demands of European diesel vehicles. | Does not repair mechanical damage. |
| Diesel Injector Deposits | Carbon buildup can affect fuel delivery and efficiency. | ADFPCN-EA | Cleans dirty injectors and lubricates pumps. | Requires adherence to treat rates. |
| Differential Wear | High loads in Quattro systems stress gears/bearings. | FGRQT-EA | Provides high-load gear and bearing protection. | Diagnosis required for existing wear. |
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
Because this is a turbocharged diesel engine, maintenance focus often shifts toward specialized components such as the turbocharger system, diesel particulate filters (DPF), and high-pressure fuel delivery systems. Owners should pay close attention to fuel quality and adherence to strict service intervals to prevent carbon buildup or emissions system issues. Routine maintenance is critical due to the complexity of the 3.0L V6 diesel architecture.
Common maintenance concerns for this vehicle
- Emissions Systems: Diesel particulate filters (DPF) and turbocharger systems require clean operation to prevent clogging or failure.
- Fuel Quality: High-pressure fuel delivery systems are sensitive to fuel quality; maintaining clean injectors is vital.
- Cooling Integrity: Maintaining the cooling system is essential for managing the thermal loads of a diesel engine.
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
Official recall/TSB research was not included in this draft yet. Owners should verify current recalls by VIN through official Audi channels or the NHTSA website to ensure their specific vehicle is up to date with any manufacturer communications.
About this vehicle
The 2016 Audi A8 is a flagship full-size luxury sedan that represents a significant era in Audi’s development of high-end executive transport. As part of the A8 lineage, which began in 1994, this vehicle is characterized by its focus on premium comfort and advanced engineering. This specific model features the quattro all-wheel-drive system, a hallmark of Audi’s performance and stability heritage.
The powertrain for this variant is equipped with a 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel turbo engine (Engine Code: CPNB). Diesel engines in the Audi lineup are typically utilized for their high torque output and improved fuel efficiency during long-distance cruising, making them ideal for executive use cases and highway driving. Due to the complexity of this architecture, owners often research specialized maintenance requirements such as diesel-specific oil standards and cooling system integrity.
While the A8 is known for its luxury, the 3.0L diesel variant requires diligent adherence to service schedules to protect its sophisticated turbocharger and emissions components. Technical specifications should always be cross-referenced with a dedicated workshop manual or official Audi service documentation for precise maintenance execution.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
What is the engine oil capacity for my 2016 Audi A8 3.0L Diesel?
The capacity is 6.8 quarts when performing an oil change with a new filter. Always check the oil level after refilling.
What viscosity should I use for the CPNB engine?
The recommended viscosity is 5W-30 (All TEMPS). The AMSOIL lookup lists AELQT-EA for this application.
How often should I change my differential fluid?
While specific intervals depend on driving conditions, the AMSOIL lookup provides FGRQT-EA for high-load protection in both front and rear differentials.
Can I use any antifreeze in my Audi A8?
It is important to use a coolant compatible with your vehicle. The lookup lists ANTPC1G-EA as an option for this vehicle.
What torque spec is needed for the oil drain plug?
The oil drain plug should be torqued to 22 ft/lbs. Remember to replace the drain plug seal during service.
How do I check for open recalls on my Audi?
Owners should verify open recalls by VIN through the NHTSA or an authorized Audi dealership, as recall applicability depends on production date and equipment.
Disclaimer: This information is derived from provided source data. Always consult your vehicle’s owner manual and official service documentation before performing maintenance.