The 2007 Audi RS4 with the 4.2-liter V8 engine (Engine Code BNS S) is a performance machine that demands premium lubricants to maintain its high-revving characteristics and reliability. Proper maintenance of the engine, transmission, and cooling systems is critical for this high-output German sports sedan. Using fluids that meet specific Audi and Volkswagen quality standards ensures optimal protection against wear, heat, and the unique stresses of this platform. Owners of this high-performance vehicle appreciate its aggressive styling, which includes a more imposing front bumper, flared wheel arches, and distinctive alloy wheels that set it apart from regular models. The vehicle was part of Audi’s “RS” lineup, a division dedicated to creating street-legal race cars, distinct from the standard S or R models. The RS4 combined the refined comfort and daily usability of an Audi A4 with the raw performance capabilities of a race car.
The 2007 Audi RS4, based on the B7 platform, represents a pinnacle of mid-engine or front-engine sports sedan engineering from the early 2000s. It is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine that was renowned for its high-revving nature and linear power delivery. This naturally aspirated engine, producing substantial horsepower, was often celebrated by automotive enthusiasts for its ability to deliver thrilling acceleration without the lag associated with forced induction. The 2007 model year was part of the second generation of the B7 RS4, produced between 2005 and 2008. It was known for its Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which provided exceptional traction and handling dynamics, making it a favorite for spirited driving on both public roads and track days.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A premium formula designed specifically for the unique demands of gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European vehicles, featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and additives.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Engineered to meet strict European specifications, providing superior protection against high temperatures and extended service intervals.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – An excellent choice for extreme cold weather protection while maintaining film strength at high operating temperatures for the V8 engine.
- MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter – Offers premium filtration media that provides improvements over original equipment manufacturer-branded filters to capture contaminants effectively.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique poly-organic acid formulation providing protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, compatible with all other antifreeze colors.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated coolant that requires mixing with water, offering outstanding corrosion protection and a service life of up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube – Features excellent cold-flow properties and friction modification to protect brass synchronizers in the manual transmission.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Engineered for long service life in high-load gear applications, providing better seal life and improved efficiency.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Reduces friction and helps keep seals soft to prevent leaks while offering strong anti-wear protection.
Engine Oil and Filtration Specifications
Ensuring the correct viscosity and specifications for the 2007 Audi RS4 is not just a recommendation; it is a necessity for preserving the longevity of the engine. The 4.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 is a complex piece of engineering that generates significant heat and requires consistent lubrication to handle its high RPM range. For the 2007 Audi RS4 (4.2L 8-cyl Engine Code BNS S), AMSOIL recommends oils that meet the applicable Audi and Volkswagen oil quality standards. If a specific synthetic oil meeting these exact standards is not available in your region, it is crucial to select a viscosity grade that is suitable for your local climate, season, and driving conditions.
The engine oil capacity for the 2007 Audi RS4 is 8.5 quarts when changing the oil with a filter replacement. This capacity highlights the need for high-quality bulk products or multiple containers to ensure the engine is filled correctly. The drain plug torque specification is 18 ft/lbs, a critical detail for preventing leaks or damaging the drain plug threads during service. For the 2007 Audi RS4, owners can choose between 5W-40 and 0W-40 viscosity grades depending on the ambient temperature. The recommended viscosities are 5W-40, 5W-30, 0W-40, and 0W-30, but the specific AMSOIL European motor oils are preferred for their enhanced performance in European vehicle applications.
Filtration is equally important for this high-performance engine. The recommended oil filter is the MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter. This aftermarket filter features premium media that offers improvements over the standard OEM-branded filters, ensuring that harmful particles are captured to protect the engine’s internal components. Using the correct filter prevents sludge buildup and maintains oil flow, which is vital for the RS4’s variable valve timing and lubrication systems.
Transmission and Differential Protection
The transmission system in the 2007 RS4 requires specific attention, particularly for the manual transmission variant. The manual transmission fluid capacity is 6.8 pints. The fill plug torque should be set to 30 ft/lbs to ensure a secure seal without risking damage. For the manual transmission, AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube is the recommended fluid. This lubricant is designed with friction modifiers that are essential for protecting brass synchronizers, ensuring smooth shifting and reducing wear on the shift mechanism. It offers outstanding cold-flow properties, which is beneficial during cold starts, and provides long service life under severe driving conditions.
For the differential, the rear unit requires 0AR….GLSC8 compatible fluid, with a capacity of 1.9 pints. The AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is an excellent choice for this application. Specifically engineered for high-load gear and bearing protection, this fluid inhibits rust and corrosion while improving seal life. The improved efficiency of this synthetic gear lube can contribute to better overall drivetrain performance. Properly maintained differentials ensure that power is delivered efficiently to the wheels, which is a key characteristic of this all-wheel-drive performance sedan.
Cooling, Braking, and Power Steering Systems
Keeping the engine at the correct temperature is paramount for the longevity of the 4.2L V8. The cooling system capacity is 12.2 quarts. Owners should note that the cooling system may require special equipment for refilling, and it is advisable to refer to OEM instructions for specific procedures and capacities. For AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant, a unique poly-organic acid (OAT) formulation is used. This mix is phosphate, nitrate, nitrite, silicate, borate, and amine-free, protecting all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses. It provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, making it a cost-effective solution for long-term ownership.
The braking system is another critical safety component. The RS4 utilizes hydraulic brake fluid, and AMSOIL recommends their DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid. This fluid provides excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems, which are standard on this vehicle. It maintains a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent pedal feel and stopping power. Additionally, the power steering system requires fluid that resists heat and protects seals. The AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid is formulated to reduce friction, keep seals soft to prevent leaks, and offer strong anti-wear protection for the power steering pump and rack.
Vehicle Background and Performance Context
However, owning and maintaining a high-performance vehicle like the 2007 Audi RS4 comes with specific challenges that can lead to common issues over time. One prevalent problem is oil consumption, particularly as the vehicle ages. The high-revving nature of the V8 engine can lead to increased oil consumption, and using a high-quality synthetic oil with additives that help control oil consumption can mitigate this issue. Another common problem involves valve cover gasket leaks, which are often associated with the aging of rubber components under high heat. Using a synthetic power steering fluid that keeps seals soft and pliable can help extend the life of these seals and prevent leaks.
Additionally, the high temperatures generated by the engine can stress the cooling system, leading to potential overheating if the coolant degrades or becomes contaminated. The use of a long-life antifreeze coolant can significantly reduce the risk of corrosion and scaling within the cooling system, preventing expensive repairs. Finally, the manual transmission in these vehicles can experience synchromesh wear if the fluid breaks down, leading to difficult shifting or grinding gears. A premium synthetic gear lube that protects brass synchronizers and resists thermal breakdown is essential for maintaining the precise shifting characteristic of the RS4. Addressing these common areas with high-performance lubricants ensures that the 2007 Audi RS4 continues to perform as a driver’s car for years to come.
Conclusion
Maintaining the 2007 Audi RS4 with the 4.2L engine requires a commitment to using the highest quality fluids available. By selecting the correct AMSOIL synthetic motor oils, transmission fluids, gear lubes, and coolants, owners can ensure their vehicle receives the protection it needs to handle the rigors of high-performance driving. Whether dealing with extreme cold, hot summer days, or extended intervals between services, AMSOIL products provide the reliability and performance necessary to keep this iconic German sports sedan running smoothly.