The 2022 Audi S5 is a performance luxury sedan that demands precision engineering, and its maintenance requires fluids that match the rigorous standards of the manufacturer. Powered by the 3.0L V6 twin-scroll turbo engine (Engine Code CWGD), this vehicle operates under significant thermal and mechanical stress. Using the correct lubricants is not just a suggestion; it is a necessity to ensure the longevity of the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components. Synthetic fluids provide superior thermal stability, oxidation resistance, and wear protection compared to conventional oils, making them ideal for handling the high boost pressures and aggressive driving dynamics associated with the S5.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 0W-20 LS-VW 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Engineered specifically for the precise tolerances and quality standards required by European manufacturers like Audi and Volkswagen.
- MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter – Offers premium media filtration that outperforms standard OEM filters to keep the engine oil clean during extended drain intervals.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A phosphate-, nitrate-, and silicate-free 50/50 pre-mix formula that protects all cooling system metals and provides protection for up to 150,000 miles.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option requiring mixing with water, offering extended service life and superior protection against metallic corrosion.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use, elevated temperatures, and challenging driving conditions in modern automatic transmissions.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A high-performance synthetic alternative that protects against wear while maintaining the fuel efficiency required for modern vehicles.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEARĀ® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced protection against wear, controls thermal runaway, and contains friction modifiers specifically beneficial for limited-slip differentials.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent responsiveness for ABS and traction control systems while maintaining stable viscosity across a wide temperature range.
Maintaining the engine of your 2022 Audi S5 requires attention to detail regarding oil capacity and viscosity. The engine oil capacity for a change with a filter replacement is 7.7 quarts. When selecting the oil, AMSOIL recommends the 0W-20 LS-VW formulation, which is an advanced synthetic designed to meet the specific Audi and Volkswagen oil quality standards required by the CWGD 5 turbo engine. This specific grade is suitable for all temperature conditions, though it is always prudent to select a viscosity grade appropriate for your local climate if synthetic options meeting the exact standard are unavailable. The oil drain plug torque specification is 22 ft-lbs, and the drain plug seal should be replaced during every service.
Beyond the engine, the transmission and drivetrain of the Audi S5 are equally critical. The automatic transmission requires a fill capacity of approximately 3.8 quarts for an initial fill, though the total capacity for an 8-speed 0D5 transmission can reach up to 9.1 quarts depending on the specific fluid flush method used. AMSOIL offers both Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid and OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, both of which are designed to withstand the high torque and heat generated by the dual-clutch or automatic systems found in this vehicle. Using a fluid that meets the 0D5…SL016 and 0DB…SL139 specifications helps ensure smooth shifting and prevents premature wear on clutch packs and bands.
The cooling system for the 3.0L turbocharged engine holds 10.6 quarts of Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant. It is vital to use a Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant that protects against the specific corrosion inhibitors required by European vehicles. The recommended products are phosphate-free and silicate-free, which prevents deposit buildup that can clog narrow cooling passages in the radiator and engine block. Whether you choose the pre-mixed ethylene glycol formula or the concentrated propylene glycol option, both provide protection up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Finally, the differential and brake systems require specialized attention. The rear differential capacity varies slightly by application, with some requiring 2.1 pints and others 1.5 pints. The AMSOIL SEVERE GEARĀ® 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is an ideal choice as it controls thermal runaway and helps reduce operating temperatures in the limited-slip differential. For the braking system, AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid ensures consistent pedal feel and prevents moisture absorption, which can lower the boiling point and lead to brake fade under heavy use.
About the Vehicle
The 2022 Audi S5 represents the pinnacle of Audi’s performance sedan lineup, combining everyday usability with track-ready capabilities. Built on the MLB evo platform, which it shares with the Audi A5 and A7, the S5 is a four-door coupe that offers a distinctive blend of style and substance. At the heart of this machine lies the 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbocharged engine, a powerplant renowned for its linear power delivery and high-revving character. This engine produces substantial horsepower and torque, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in seconds, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate the smooth acceleration of a V6 compared to the often more abrupt delivery of a four-cylinder turbo.
Owners of the S5 are often drawn to the vehicle’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which provides exceptional traction in various weather conditions while maintaining a sporty driving dynamic. The interior is equally impressive, featuring premium materials, advanced technology, and a driver-focused cockpit that emphasizes the car’s performance heritage. Despite its high performance, the S5 is designed to be a daily driver, offering a comfortable ride quality and a spacious rear seat for adults, making it a versatile choice for families or individuals who need a practical vehicle without sacrificing excitement.
However, the demanding nature of the S5 can lead to specific issues over time if not properly maintained. One common challenge for owners of the 3.0L V6 turbo engine is the potential for oil dilution, particularly during short trips or cold starts where fuel can contaminate the oil. This can lead to reduced lubricity and increased engine wear. Using a high-quality synthetic oil like the AMSOIL 0W-20 LS-VW 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil helps mitigate this issue by resisting fuel breakdown and maintaining viscosity until the vehicle reaches operating temperature.
Another known concern with this engine is the sensitivity of the turbocharger to heat soak and sludge buildup. The turbocharger operates at extremely high temperatures and rotational speeds, placing significant stress on the engine’s lubrication system. Conventional oils may break down faster under these conditions, leading to carbon buildup in the turbo bearings. AMSOIL’s robust synthetic base stocks and additive packages are designed to resist thermal degradation and keep the turbo components clean, extending the life of the turbocharger.
Transmission issues, while less common in newer models, can still arise with the S-Tronic dual-clutch transmission if the fluid is not maintained correctly. Clutch wear and shudder can occur if the transmission fluid loses its friction modifiers or becomes contaminated with clutch debris. Regular fluid changes using a high-performance synthetic Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid can prevent these issues and ensure smooth gear shifts for years. Additionally, the cooling system in performance vehicles is under constant pressure from the heat generated by the turbo and engine. Coolant degradation can lead to corrosion in the aluminum components of the cooling system, which can be costly to repair. Using a compatible, long-life Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant prevents corrosion and ensures the system operates efficiently.
Finally, brake fade can be a problem for owners who enjoy spirited driving on backroads or track days. Standard brake fluids have a relatively low boiling point, which can lead to a spongy pedal feel or reduced stopping power after repeated hard braking. A synthetic AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid with a higher boiling point ensures that the hydraulic system remains consistent under extreme conditions, providing confidence and safety when pushing the S5 to its limits. By addressing these common areas of wear, owners can keep their Audi S5 performing at its peak for the long haul.
