The 2007 Audi S4 is a high-performance sedan known for its agile handling and the distinctive sound of its naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine. To keep this German engineering masterpiece running at peak efficiency, using the correct lubricants is essential. The BHF B engine requires oils that meet strict European specifications, and standard commercial fluids often fall short of the extreme demands placed on high-mileage vehicles in this class. Proper maintenance ensures not only longevity but also maintains the precise shifting and thermal stability required for spirited driving.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
For optimal protection of your 2007 Audi S4, we recommend the following specific AMSOIL synthetic lubricants and filters. These products are formulated to exceed the requirements of the Audi factory specifications and provide superior performance in all driving conditions.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Specifically designed with a European formula to meet the precise demands of the 4.2L V8 engine, offering exceptional protection against high temperatures and wear.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A fuel-efficient European formula that provides a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives for enhanced engine cleanliness and longevity.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Ideal for extreme cold starts, this viscosity grade ensures rapid oil flow to critical engine components while maintaining protection during high-load driving.
- MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter – Features premium filtration media that outperforms original equipment manufacturer filters, capturing more contaminants to keep your engine oil clean and the V8 running smoothly.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A unique phosphate- and silicate-free formulation that protects the aluminum components of the Audi cooling system while preventing corrosion and scaling.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Offers superior thermal stability and wear protection for the 6-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifts even under heavy towing or spirited driving conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Engineered to meet OE specifications while providing extended service life and reduced friction for improved fuel economy and transmission longevity.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube – Specifically formulated to protect brass synchronizers and reduce heat, ensuring crisp shifts and extended life for the manual gearbox components.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, preventing brake fade and ensuring safety.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Designed for extended drain intervals, this lube provides high-load protection for the center differential and rear differential, inhibiting rust and corrosion effectively.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Resists heat and oxidation to keep steering seals soft and prevent leaks, ensuring smooth and quiet operation of the power steering system.
Changing these fluids according to the recommended intervals can significantly extend the life of the 2007 Audi S4. The engine oil capacity for this vehicle is approximately 9.5 quarts when including a filter change. It is crucial to check the oil level after refill and ensure the drain plug is torqued to 47 ft/lbs. For the cooling system, a full capacity of 12.9 quarts is required, so be aware that special equipment may be needed for a complete flush. Using AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant ensures protection up to 150,000 miles in passenger cars and light trucks.
The transmission fluid capacity varies depending on the specific application. For a full refill of the automatic 6-speed transmission, the total capacity is 10.4 quarts, with an initial fill of 8.5 quarts. If you have the manual transmission variant, the capacity for AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube is 6.8 pints. Differential lubrication is equally critical for the S4’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, with the center differential requiring 1.7 pints and the rear differential requiring 1.9 pints for models with OAR (Open Rear). Using the correct synthetic AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube in these differentials reduces wear on the gears and bearings, which are under constant stress due to the vehicle’s performance-oriented design.
Why Proper Lubrication Matters for the 4.2L V8
The 4.2-liter V8 engine in the 2007 S4 is a naturally aspirated powerhouse that generates significant heat and mechanical stress. Unlike turbocharged engines, this unit relies on its displacement and high RPMs to produce power, which places unique demands on the lubricating oil. Standard mineral oils tend to break down under these thermal stresses, leading to sludge buildup, varnish on valve train components, and increased oil consumption over time.
AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil and AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil are engineered to resist thermal breakdown far better than conventional oils. They maintain their viscosity at high operating temperatures, ensuring a durable oil film between moving parts. This is particularly important for the timing chain guides and tensioners, which are known wear items on this engine family. By using a high-quality European-spec synthetic oil, you help prevent the premature wear of these components and reduce the risk of costly repairs down the road.
Similarly, the transmission and differential systems benefit immensely from synthetic lubricants. The constant torque transfer in the Quattro system can cause the gear oil to degrade, leading to noisy operation and eventual failure. A synthetic AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube or AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube stays fluid in cold weather for better cold-start shifting while providing superior protection against extreme pressure at the gear mesh points. This translates to smoother power delivery and a longer life for your drivetrain components.
About the Vehicle: 2007 Audi S4
The 2007 Audi S4 represents a significant era for the brand, marking the third generation of the S4 model line. Built on the B7 platform, this sedan was positioned as the performance-oriented sibling to the A4, offering a blend of daily drivability and genuine sportscar capabilities. Under the hood lies the 4.2-liter FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) V8 engine, codenamed BHF B. This naturally aspirated engine was renowned for its linear power delivery, smooth idle, and a distinctively high-pitched exhaust note that enthusiasts often described as the best-sounding V8 in the Audi lineup. It produced roughly 340 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that was one of the fastest-shifting in its class at the time.
The S4 featured the legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which provided exceptional traction in all weather conditions. This made it a favorite for drivers who demanded year-round reliability without sacrificing performance. The interior was typically well-appointed, featuring premium leather, aluminum trim, and the signature Audi instrumentation. It was a car that appealed to professionals who needed a practical four-door vehicle but refused to compromise on driving dynamics.
Despite its robust engineering, the 2007 S4 does have some known issues that can be mitigated with high-quality lubricants. One common concern is oil consumption, which can become an issue as the engine ages, particularly if the piston rings or valve seals wear. Using a premium synthetic oil like AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil can help reduce this consumption by providing better sealing properties and resisting burn-off at high temperatures. Another potential problem area is the timing chain stretch, which can occur if the oil pressure drops or if the oil degrades, leading to rattling noises and potential engine damage. Consistent oil changes with a high-quality synthetic can maintain proper chain tensioner performance.
Owners have also reported issues with the cooling system, particularly the electric water pumps and thermostats, which can fail prematurely. Ensuring the cooling system is filled with a high-quality, non-silicate antifreeze like AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant helps prevent corrosion and extends the life of these components. Additionally, the AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid can degrade over time, leading to whining noises and increased wear on the steering pump. A synthetic power steering fluid resists oxidation and heat, keeping the seals soft and the system quiet. Finally, the differential fluids in the Quattro system can become contaminated or degrade, leading to differential wear. Regular replacement with a high-performance synthetic gear lube ensures the clutches and gears remain protected, maintaining the vehicle’s handling balance and preventing the “notchy” feel that sometimes develops in older units.