The 2007 Audi S6 is a performance sedan powered by a robust 5.2-liter 10-cylinder engine, a powerplant that demands precision lubrication to maintain its longevity and high-revving character. Keeping this vehicle on the road requires a comprehensive approach to fluid maintenance that goes beyond a simple oil change. The engine, transmission, differential, and cooling systems all rely on high-quality synthetics designed to withstand the thermal stresses of German engineering. Using the correct viscosity and meeting the strict Audi and Volkswagen oil quality standards is essential for protecting the engine and ensuring smooth operation in all conditions.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A specialized European formula designed for the unique demands of this high-performance engine, ensuring precise additive blends and superior protection.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – An optimal choice for all temperatures, offering extensive protection against wear and thermal breakdown in demanding driving conditions.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Ideal for cold starts and high-performance applications, providing superior cold-flow properties while maintaining stability under heat.
- MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter – Premium filtration media that offers improvements over original equipment manufacturer branded filters to ensure clean oil circulation.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A ready-to-use 50/50 pre-mix formulation that protects all cooling system metals and provides up to 150,000 miles of service life.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated solution that requires mixing with water, designed to greatly surpass OEM standards for corrosion and erosion protection.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands the rigors of heavy use and elevated temperatures, ensuring fluidity in sub-zero conditions for smooth shifting.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Provides essential protection against wear while meeting specific OE performance requirements.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Engineered for high-load gear and bearing protection, extending seal life and improving efficiency in both front and rear differentials.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Reduces friction and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks while resisting heat for long fluid life.
Engine Oil and Filtration for the 5.2L V10
The heart of the 2007 Audi S6 is its 5.2-liter 10-cylinder engine, identified by engine codes BSM, BXA, or N. This powerplant generates significant heat and requires a lubricant that can maintain its viscosity under extreme thermal stress. AMSOIL 5W-40 MS, AMSOIL 5W-40 FS, and AMSOIL 0W-40 FS meet the rigorous Audi and Volkswagen oil quality standards required for this vehicle. The 5.2L engine requires a substantial oil capacity of 10.6 quarts when the filter is changed. After refilling, it is critical to check the oil level to ensure the correct volume is present. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 18 ft/lbs during installation.
Selecting the right oil depends on your local temperature and driving habits. The 0W-40 FS is an excellent choice for colder climates, providing immediate protection during startup. For moderate climates or more aggressive driving, the 5W-40 FS or 5W-40 MS offers the precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives needed for European vehicles. The MS variant is specifically designed for the unique demands of gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European vehicles, while the FS variant emphasizes fuel efficiency and extreme performance. Regardless of the grade chosen, using a high-quality filter is non-negotiable. The recommended MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter provides premium media that improves upon OEM filtration capabilities, ensuring that contaminants are effectively removed from the oil to keep the engine clean and running smoothly.
Transmission, Differential, and Cooling Systems
Beyond the engine, the transmission and cooling systems require specialized attention to prevent costly repairs. The 2007 Audi S6 typically comes equipped with an automatic transmission that requires a fluid change every 100,000 miles or five years for optimal performance. The capacity for the 6-speed 09E transmission is 11 quarts for a total fill, though initial fills may vary slightly. For those seeking maximum protection against wear and sludge, the Signature Series Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid is a top-tier option. It remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures and withstands the rigors of heavy towing and challenging terrain. Alternatively, the OE Fuel-Efficient Automatic Transmission Fluid offers strong wear protection for standard driving conditions.
The cooling system is equally vital, with a capacity of 15.9 quarts for the 2007 model. Over time, the original antifreeze and coolant degrades, leading to the risk of corrosion and overheating. AMSOIL offers two distinct coolant options. The Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a convenient 50/50 ethylene glycol pre-mix that is phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free, protecting all cooling system metals. For those who prefer a concentrated solution or need a propylene glycol base for environmental reasons, the Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant is an excellent choice, capable of protecting against corrosion up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
Gear lubrication is essential for the differential. The front differential (with automatic transmission) requires approximately 2.5 pints, the rear differential varies based on the specific axle code (01R or 0AR), requiring 3.2 or 1.9 pints respectively, and the transfer case holds about 2.3 pints. AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is specifically engineered to handle high loads and improve cold-weather shifting while protecting seals and bearings for up to 500,000 miles in demanding applications. This extended service life means fewer fluid changes over the life of the vehicle.
Other Critical Fluids and Maintenance
To maintain the safety and performance of the Audi S6, other fluids must be addressed regularly. The hydraulic brake system requires a DOT 3 and DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid that maintains a stable viscosity to ensure responsive braking and ABS performance. AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid is formulated to provide excellent responsiveness in both wet and dry conditions. Additionally, the power steering system benefits from a synthetic multi-vehicle fluid that resists heat breakdown and keeps seals soft to prevent leaks. The AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid offers strong anti-wear protection and ensures quiet operation.
About the Vehicle
The 2007 Audi S6 represents a pinnacle of German automotive engineering, distinguished by its powerful naturally aspirated V10 engine. This period marks the transition in Audi’s performance lineup, where the S6 moved away from turbocharged four-cylinder and V6 powerplants in favor of the naturally aspirated 5.2-liter FSI V10, derived from the Lamborghini Gallardo’s engine architecture. This powertrain delivers a unique combination of high-end torque and a distinctive, high-pitched exhaust note that sets it apart from its contemporaries. As a member of the D3 platform, the S6 shares its chassis architecture with the larger A6 but is tuned for sharper handling and superior acceleration, offering a driving experience that rivals dedicated sports coupes while maintaining the comfort and safety of a full-sized luxury sedan.
Owners of the 2007 S6 often cite the vehicle’s blend of daily drivability and track-capable performance as its greatest asset. The 5.2-liter engine, producing around 430 horsepower in its US-spec form, is renowned for its smooth power delivery across the rev range. The Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction in all weather conditions, making the S6 a versatile choice for performance enthusiasts who also require a practical vehicle. The interior typically features high-quality materials and ergonomic designs, emphasizing a driver-focused cockpit with optional features like adaptive damping and ceramic brakes in higher trims.
Despite its reliability pedigree, the 2007 Audi S6, like many high-performance vehicles of its era, has known issues that can be mitigated with proper maintenance. One common concern is carbon buildup on the intake valves, particularly as the vehicle accumulates miles. AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver gasoline additive can help restore fuel injectors to 100% flow rate and reduce the need for costly higher-octane fuel while controlling pre-ignition knock. Another frequent maintenance item involves the cooling system; as the vehicle ages, original hoses and seals can become brittle. Regular coolant flushes with a high-quality antifreeze help preserve these components.
Furthermore, the 10-cylinder engine requires precise oil pressure and lubrication to prevent wear on the timing chain and valvetrain. Using a high-quality synthetic motor oil with the correct viscosity helps mitigate oil consumption and sludge formation, which are common problems in high-mileage V10 engines. The power steering system can also suffer from seal degradation, leading to leaks; synthetic power steering fluid helps keep these seals supple and extends their life. Finally, the braking system, especially if the vehicle has been driven aggressively, benefits from periodic flushing of the brake fluid to maintain the correct boiling point and prevent corrosion within the hydraulic system. By addressing these specific areas with high-performance synthetic fluids, owners can preserve the integrity and performance of their 2007 Audi S6 for years to come.