For the 2016 Audi Q5 with the 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel turbo engine (Engine Code CPNB), the required oil capacity is 6.8 quarts (including filter replacement). The recommended oil 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 Q5 3.0L Diesel take?
The 2016 Audi Q5 with the CPNB engine requires an oil viscosity of 5W-30 for all temperatures. It is critical to ensure the oil meets the applicable Audi and Volkswagen quality standards. The AMSOIL lookup lists AMSOIL 5W-30 LS as a suitable option for this European diesel application.
AMSOIL product recommendations
Based on the specific requirements for the 2016 Audi Q5 3.0L Diesel, the following AMSOIL products are recommended for your maintenance needs:
| Component | AMSOIL Product Name | Product Code |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | 5W-30 LS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil | AELQT-EA |
| Coolant | Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant | ANTPC1G-EA |
| Coolant (Concentrate) | Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant | ANT1G-EA |
| Automatic Transmission | Signature Series Fuel-Efficient ATF | ATLPK-EA |
| Automatic Transmission (OE) | OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic ATF | OTLQT-EA |
| Front Differential | 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube | FGRQT-EA |
| Rear Differential | 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube | FGRQT-EA |
| Brake Fluid | DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid | BFLVCN-EA |
Engine Oil Specifications
| Attribute | Specification/Value |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL Lookup Oil Grade | SEO06 |
| Recommended Viscosity | 5W-30 (All TEMPS) |
| OEM Quality Standard | Audi/Volkswagen standards (as listed in manual) |
Engine Oil Capacity and Torque
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Oil Capacity (with filter) | 6.8 quarts |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 22 ft/lbs |
| Drain Plug Note | Replace drain plug seal |
How much coolant and transmission fluid is needed?
The cooling system requires 12.7 quarts of coolant. For the automatic transmission (0BK configuration), the initial fill capacity is approximately 3.8 quarts, though this can vary between 3.6-4.0L or 3.8-4.2 Quarts depending on specific conditions. The total fill for an 8-speed 0BK transmission is 9.1 quarts.
Coolant Specifications
| Product | Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant | 12.7 quarts | 50/50 Ethylene glycol pre-mix |
| AMSOIL Propylene Glycol | Not confirmed from source data | Concentrated; requires mixing with distilled water |
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
| Product | Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Signature Series ATF | 3.8 qt (Initial Fill) | Varies 3.6-4.0L / 3.8-4.2 qt |
| OE Fuel-Efficient ATF | 9.1 qt (Total Fill 8-speed) | For 0BK transmission |
Differential and Brake Fluid Requirements
Both the front and rear differentials for vehicles with the 0BK configuration require approximately 2.1 pints of lubricant. For braking, the vehicle requires hydraulic brake fluid meeting DOT 4 standards.
Differential Lubricant (Front & Rear)
| Product | Capacity | OEM Reference |
|---|---|---|
| AMSOIL 75W-90 Gear Lube | 2.1 pints | Audi/VW Part G 052 145 A1, A2, or S2 |
Note: The lookup notes that G 052 145 A2 was superseded by the manufacturer with G 052 145 S2.
Brake Fluid
| Product | Specification | OEM Reference |
|---|---|---|
| AMSOIL DOT 3/DOT 4 | Synthetic | DOT 4 P/N B 000 750 M3 |
Diesel maintenance notes for this vehicle
- Oil Level Verification: Always check the oil level after refilling following an oil change.
- Filter Replacement: While specific filter part numbers are not confirmed from source data, ensure you use a high-quality filter compatible with the 3.0L diesel engine.
- Seal Integrity: When changing the oil, always replace the drain plug seal to prevent leaks.
- Diesel Specific Care: Given this is a turbocharged diesel, monitoring fuel system cleanliness and turbocharger integrity is vital for long-term reliability.
Common maintenance concerns for this vehicle
Based on NHTSA data and owner reports, owners of the 2016 Audi Q5 should be aware of several potential areas of concern:
- Subframe Corrosion: There have been multiple consumer complaints regarding rusted or corroded subframes, with some reports suggesting moisture may be trapped by plastic cladding.
- Electrical/Auxiliary Heater: Potential for wiring issues in the auxiliary heater that could lead to overheating.
- Cooling System: Concerns regarding electric coolant pumps being blocked by debris, which can cause overheating.
- Sunroof Drainage: Issues with sunroof drainage systems potentially leading to moisture intrusion near airbag canisters.
Common diesel oil-related concerns and how AMSOIL products may help
| Concern | Why it matters | AMSOIL Product | How it may help | Important Limitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turbocharger Protection | High heat and high RPMs can degrade oil quickly. | 5W-30 LS Synthetic | Provides exceptional engine protection. | Does not repair existing damage. |
| Diesel Injector Deposits | Dirty injectors can reduce power and torque. | Diesel Injector Clean | Cleans dirty injectors and lubricates pumps. | Requires regular use for best results. |
| Cold Weather Starts | Thick oil can cause wear during startup. | 5W-30 LS Synthetic | Designed for European vehicle demands. | Viscosity must match climate needs. |
Recall, TSB, and manufacturer communication notes
NHTSA research indicates several recalls for the 2016 Audi Q5. These include campaigns related to:
- Electrical System: Potential overheating of auxiliary heater wires due to connector corrosion (Campaign 17V622000).
- Cooling System: Risk of electric coolant pump overheating if blocked by debris (Campaign 17V002000).
- Sunroof Assembly: Potential for water to soak into foam near airbag inflator canisters (Campaign 17V001000).
Disclaimer: Always verify open recalls by checking your specific VIN through the Audi website or NHTSA.
About this vehicle
The 2016 Audi Q5 is a compact luxury crossover SUV built on the Audi MLB platform. This model represents a period of Audi’s engineering focused on balancing high-end luxury with versatile utility. The specific variant discussed here features the 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel engine (Engine Code: CPNB), which utilizes turbocharging to provide the high torque levels often desired for towing or long-distance cruising in a premium SUV format.
As a turbocharged, high-pressure common-rail diesel vehicle, maintenance is specialized. Owners typically focus on service intervals for Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), maintaining fuel system cleanliness, and ensuring the integrity of turbocharger components. Because of the complexity of the 3.0L diesel architecture, monitoring fluid quality—including engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluids—is considered paramount to the longevity of the powertrain.
Common questions about this vehicle’s diesel oil and maintenance
What is the oil capacity for my 2016 Audi Q5 3.0L Diesel?
The capacity is 6.8 quarts when performing an oil change with a new filter.
What viscosity should I use for the CPNB engine?
The AMSOIL lookup recommends 5W-30 for all temperatures, provided it meets Audi/Volkswagen quality standards.
How often should I change my diesel transmission fluid?
While specific intervals vary by driving conditions, maintaining the 8-speed 0BK transmission with fluids like ATLPK-EA can help ensure smooth, shudder-free shifts.
Can I use any antifreeze in my Audi Q5?
No. The lookup notes that the cooling system requires specific formulations; AMSOIL offers ANTPC1G-EA which is engineered to exceed OEM requirements.
What should I do if my Audi has a recall notice?
You should contact an authorized Audi dealer or visit the NHTSA website to verify open recalls using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Does my diesel engine need additives?
While not always required, products like ADFPCN-EA are designed to clean injectors and lubricate pumps to help maintain performance.
Verification Disclaimer: All technical specifications, capacities, and torque values are derived from the provided AMSOIL source data. Always consult your official Audi owner’s manual before performing vehicle maintenance.