Proper lubrication is the lifeblood of your 2012 Audi S5, especially when that engine is a high-revving 4.2-liter V8. The CAUA engine code represents a powerplant designed for performance, and it demands fluids that can withstand significant heat, high RPMs, and the rigorous driving conditions often associated with this model. Using the correct viscosity and quality of AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil, AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil, or AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil ensures that moving parts like the camshafts and piston rings are protected from wear, maintaining peak efficiency and extending the vehicle’s operational life. Neglecting these fluid specs can lead to costly damage, whereas following the right lubrication guidelines keeps the drivetrain smooth and responsive.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL 5W-40 MS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – A premium synthetic formula specifically engineered for the unique demands of gasoline and diesel European vehicles, providing superior protection against high temperatures and wear.
- AMSOIL 5W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – An excellent alternative for European performance engines, featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives to meet stringent Audi and Volkswagen quality standards.
- AMSOIL 0W-40 FS 100% Synthetic European Motor Oil – Offers superior cold-start protection and high-temperature stability, ideal for extreme climates or severe driving conditions where extended service intervals are desired.
- MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter – A high-quality replacement filter that uses premium media to improve upon original equipment manufacturer filtration standards, ensuring contaminants are effectively removed from the oil stream.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Designed to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions, protecting the 6-speed automatic transmission from wear.
- AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – A fuel-efficient option that provides essential wear protection for the automatic transmission, balancing performance with efficiency.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube – Engineered to protect against increased heat and pressure, this gear lube also features excellent cold-flow properties and protects brass synchronizers for smooth shifting.
- AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Specifically designed for high-load gear and bearing protection with a formulation that extends service life and improves seal compatibility for rear differential applications.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Provides a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness for the hydraulic brake system.
- AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid – Reduces friction and helps seals remain soft to prevent leaks, while offering strong anti-wear protection and resistance to heat for long fluid life.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – A 50/50 pre-mixed ethylene glycol formulation that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses, exceeding OEM requirements for engine thermal management.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated formula requiring mixing with water, offering extended service intervals and superior protection against metallic corrosion and erosion.
The 2012 Audi S5 is powered by a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine, identified by the CAUA engine code. This powerplant produces approximately 354 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, delivering a linear power band that Audi enthusiasts appreciate. The engine’s longevity is directly tied to how well it is maintained. With a recommended oil capacity of 9.3 quarts when changing the filter, it is crucial to use the full amount and check the oil level after refilling. The torque specification for the oil drain plug is 18 ft/lbs, a detail often overlooked but essential for preventing stripped threads or leaks.
Beyond the engine, the cooling system requires 12.9 quarts of AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant, which is a significant volume given the capacity of standard containers. This engine is known to generate substantial heat under load, making high-quality antifreeze a non-negotiable component of maintenance. Whether you choose the pre-mixed Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze or the concentrated AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant, the goal is to maintain optimal operating temperatures to prevent overheating and corrosion within the cooling passages.
The transmission system in the S5 varies between automatic and manual configurations, requiring specific fluids for each. The 6-speed automatic transmission (0B6) requires a total fill of 11 quarts, demanding a robust fluid like the AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid or the AMSOIL OE Fuel-Efficient 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid to handle the torque and heat generated. For the manual transmission (0B4), the capacity is 8 pints, and the fluid must protect brass synchronizers, which is a key function of the AMSOIL 75W-90 Manual Transmission & Transaxle Gear Lube. The rear differential also has specific requirements, with capacities varying slightly depending on the transfer case configuration, ranging from 1.9 to 2.1 pints. Using a high-quality synthetic gear lube here ensures smooth operation and prevents wear on the gears and bearings.
Maintaining the hydraulic systems is equally important. The brake system requires a DOT 4 fluid, for which AMSOIL offers a 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid that outperforms conventional fluids in terms of boiling point and stability. This ensures consistent pedal feel and safety during hard stops. Additionally, the power steering system benefits from AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid that keeps seals soft and reduces friction, leading to quieter operation and extended component life.
About the Vehicle
The 2012 Audi S5 occupies a unique space in the automotive landscape, blending the practicality of a coupe with the performance of a sports car. Based on the B8 generation platform, which it shares with the A5, the S5 is known for its refined engineering and elegant design. It was one of the first models in the Audi lineup to feature the naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 as the primary power source for the S-line, offering a distinct driving character compared to the turbocharged alternatives found in other luxury vehicles of that era. The engine code CAUA is associated with the high-output version of the FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) V8, delivering strong acceleration and a signature exhaust note that Audi fans adore.
Owners of the 2012 S5 typically appreciate the vehicle’s balance of handling and comfort. The chassis geometry provides precise steering feedback, while the suspension tuning strikes a good compromise between daily drivability and track capability. The interior is known for its high-quality materials and the driver-focused cockpit design typical of the brand. Over time, these vehicles have built a reputation for reliability when properly maintained, particularly regarding the engine’s timing chain systems and cooling components. While the S5 is a premium vehicle, its maintenance requirements are straightforward if one follows the correct fluid specifications. The emphasis on using synthetic lubricants that meet or exceed European standards is critical for keeping this machine in top condition. As a result, the S5 has become a favorite for enthusiasts who want the prestige of the Audi brand without the complexity of forced induction maintenance, provided they commit to regular fluid changes with high-quality products.
Finally, consider the broader ecosystem of vehicle care. Products like the AMSOIL P.i.® Performance Improver gasoline additive can help clean injectors and restore lost horsepower, which is particularly beneficial as the vehicle accumulates miles. For those interested in storage or detailed care, AMSOIL offers specialized products like AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil, AMSOIL Synthetic Multi-Purpose Grease, AMSOIL Heavy-Duty Metal Protector, and a variety of cleaning agents like AMSOIL Brake and Parts Cleaner that can keep the S5 looking and running its best. Whether you are extending service intervals or performing a standard oil change, using the recommended products ensures that every aspect of the vehicle receives the care it was designed to receive.