The 2008 Audi S8 is a high-performance luxury sedan powered by a robust 5.2-liter V10 engine. To maintain its reliability and performance, using the correct synthetic lubricants is essential. This powerful engine requires oil that can handle extreme temperatures and high loads while meeting specific Audi and Volkswagen quality standards. Selecting the right viscosity grade, whether 0W-40 or 5W-40, ensures optimal protection for internal components during cold starts and under heavy driving conditions.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
Ensure your 2008 Audi S8 receives the protection it deserves with these top-tier synthetic fluids and filters.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Engineered with a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives specifically for European vehicles, meeting strict Audi and Volkswagen quality standards.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A superior synthetic formula designed for gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European cars, offering exceptional wear protection and engine cleanliness.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Provides excellent cold-start protection and flow for the 5.2L V10 engine in all temperatures, ensuring immediate lubrication when you need it most.
- MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter – Features premium filtration media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters, capturing contaminants to keep your engine oil clean.
- MANN-FILTERS Air Filters – Delivers high-efficiency airflow and filtration, ensuring the V10 engine breathes cleanly to maintain power and efficiency.
When it comes to the engine’s lubrication needs, the recommended oil capacity is 10.6 quarts, including the filter replacement. It is crucial to refill the engine with the appropriate volume and then check the oil level to ensure accurate measurement. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 18 ft/lbs during service. While the oil grade allows for 5W-40 or 0W-40 depending on the season, always ensure the product meets the applicable Audi and Volkswagen oil quality standards. If a synthetic oil meeting these exact standards is unavailable in your area, selecting a viscosity grade suitable for your local climate and operating conditions is a safe alternative.
Beyond the engine, the transmission requires specific attention. For the automatic transmission, the initial fill capacity is 10.6 quarts, while a total fill for the 6-speed transmission requires 11 quarts. Using a high-quality synthetic fluid is critical to withstand the rigors of heavy towing, elevated temperatures, and challenging terrain. Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid remains fluid even in sub-zero temperatures while providing reserve protection during heavy use. The cooling system also requires care, with a capacity of 16.5 quarts. AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant formulations provide protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, ensuring the engine does not overheat and corrosion is prevented. These coolants are phosphate-, nitrate-, nitrite-, silicate-, borate-, and amine-free, making them safe for all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses.
Drivetrain and Fluid Maintenance
The differential and transfer case require specific gear lubes to handle high-load conditions. For the front differential with an automatic transmission, the capacity is 2.5 pints, while the rear differential holds 1.9 pints. AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is designed for these applications, offering 500,000-mile service life, protection from rust and corrosion, and improved cold-weather shifting. This fluid helps improve efficiency and extends seal life, ensuring smooth operation for the vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system.
Other essential fluids include the AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid and AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid. The 2008 Audi S8 requires a DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid provides excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range. For the power steering system, AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid is recommended. This fluid reduces friction, helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks, and offers strong anti-wear protection. It resists heat for long fluid life and provides excellent performance at both high and low temperatures for quiet operation.
About the Vehicle
The 2008 Audi S8 represents the pinnacle of Audi’s engineering prowess during that era. Based on the D3 platform, this vehicle combines the understated elegance of the A8 sedan with the raw performance of a sports car. Under the hood lies the impressive 5.2-liter FSI V10 engine, a naturally aspirated powerplant that produces significant horsepower and delivers a linear, thrilling power curve that distinguishes it from turbocharged competitors of the time. This engine code, BSM, BXA, or N, is renowned for its smoothness and high-revving capability.
Drivers who own this vehicle appreciate its dual nature as both a comfortable daily driver and a high-speed performance machine. The interior is typically luxurious, featuring premium leather, advanced climate control, and sophisticated technology for its time. The S8’s all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction in various weather conditions, making it a versatile choice for owners in regions with diverse climates. Its reputation for reliability, when maintained with proper lubrication, allows owners to enjoy high performance without frequent mechanical issues. Whether commuting in traffic or driving on winding roads, the S8 offers a balanced and engaging driving experience that has garnered a loyal following among enthusiasts.
Additional Protection and Care
To keep the 2008 Audi S8 in peak condition, consider using specialized additives and cleaners. AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver Gasoline Additive can help restore up to 14% horsepower and clean fuel injectors, improving fuel economy and reducing the need for higher-octane fuel. For those looking to protect the engine during storage, AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil is an effective rust preventive designed to protect internal components. Additionally, AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector can be used to shield the vehicle against the effects of salt, moisture, and chemical corrosion, leaving a long-lasting protective coating. For routine maintenance and cleaning, products like the AMSOIL Engine Degreaser and AMSOIL Power Foam® Carburetor and Induction-System Cleaner can keep the vehicle looking and running its best. Finally, for those looking to store the vehicle for seasonal use, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer helps keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish and gum buildup.
Maintaining the 2008 Audi S8 with AMSOIL products ensures that every component, from the engine to the transmission and differential, receives top-tier protection. By following the recommended fluid capacities and using the correct synthetic lubricants, owners can extend the life of their vehicle and enjoy reliable performance for years to come. Always verify fluid levels after refilling and adhere to the torque specifications for proper maintenance.