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Volkswagen Passat Oil Types by Year: The Complete Guide

Published on Jan 21, 2026 by Platinum VW

Volkswagen engine bay with oil fill cap

Volkswagen Passat Oil Types by Year: The Complete Guide

Get the right oil every time—by year and engine. The key is the correct VW approval (502 00, 504 00, 508 00), not just viscosity.

Introduction

Choosing the right engine oil for your Volkswagen Passat is one of the most crucial steps in ensuring your vehicle’s longevity, performance, and reliability. With the Passat’s long production history and a variety of engine options, oil requirements have evolved significantly over the years. The most important factor is not just the oil’s viscosity (such as 5W-40 or 0W-20), but whether it meets the specific Volkswagen (VW) approval for your engine. This comprehensive guide breaks down the recommended oil types for different Passat model years and engines, explains why VW approval matters, and provides actionable tips for confirming the correct oil for your car.

Volkswagen Passat parked with hood closed

Understanding VW Oil Specifications

Close-up of motor oil bottle label and approvals

Why VW approvals (502 00, 504 00, 508 00) matter

Volkswagen’s oil specifications, often called VW approvals, are the most important requirement—not just the viscosity. Approvals like VW 502 00 (common for many gasoline engines), VW 504 00/507 00 (often for newer long-life or diesel applications), and VW 508 00 (common on newer 0W-20 applications) ensure the oil’s additive package and performance meet VW standards for wear protection, cleanliness, and emissions system compatibility. Always choose a full synthetic oil that explicitly lists the correct VW approval on the bottle.

Common Oil Types by Passat Model Year

Volkswagen TSI engine bay close-up

2006–2018 Gasoline Passats (2.0T, 1.8T, 2.5L, etc.)

Recommended: 5W-40 full synthetic meeting VW 502 00. Also often acceptable: 0W-40 if it explicitly carries VW 502 00 approval. This covers many 2.0T, 1.8T, and 2.5L engines commonly sold in this period.
Mechanic adding oil to a diesel engine

Diesel Passat Models (TDI variants)

Many diesel Passats require oil meeting VW 507 00. This specification supports modern diesel emissions systems while providing robust wear protection. Always verify in your manual.
VW Passat engine cover with TSI badge

2019 and Newer Passats (esp. U.S. 2.0T)

Often require 0W-20 oil meeting VW 508 00. This lighter viscosity supports fuel efficiency and cold-start performance in newer engines. Always confirm on your oil cap and in the owner’s manual.
Older Volkswagen engine components

Older Passat Models (Pre-2006)

Earlier 1.8T and 2.8L V6 models typically use 5W-30 or 5W-40 full synthetic with the correct VW approval (often VW 502 00; some older diesels may call for 505 00). Verify by engine code and manual.

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Why VW Approval Matters More Than Viscosity

While viscosity (the “5W-40” or “0W-20” part) is important for cold starts and high-temperature protection, the VW approval is what ensures the oil contains the correct additive package and performance standards your engine needs. Full synthetic oil is almost always required for modern Passats—especially turbocharged and direct-injection engines. Using oil without the correct VW approval can lead to deposits, increased wear, and potential warranty issues.

VW oil filler cap and dipstick area

How to Instantly Confirm the Correct Oil Type

Check two places:

1) The oil cap under the hood usually lists the recommended viscosity.

2) Your owner’s manual shows both viscosity and the required VW specification (e.g., 502 00, 504 00, 507 00, 508 00). Only use oil that explicitly lists the correct VW approval on the label.

Owner reading a vehicle manual near the dashboard

Oil cap and owner’s manual

Your oil cap offers a quick viscosity hint, but the manual confirms both viscosity and the exact VW approval. When in doubt, defer to the manual.

Oil Change Intervals and Maintenance Tips

For most Passat models using full synthetic oil, Volkswagen recommends changing the oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. If you drive in severe conditions—frequent short trips, very hot/cold climates, or heavy stop-and-go traffic—consider shorter intervals (around 5,000 miles). Regular changes with the correct VW-approved oil are the best way to keep your Passat running smoothly and protect your investment.

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Quick Reference: Safe Oil Choice for Most Passats

If you want a quick rule that works for many gasoline Passats, use a 5W-40 full synthetic with VW 502 00 approval. This is a safe answer for most 2006–2018 gas models. For many newer 2019+ 2.0T U.S. Passats, the requirement is often 0W-20 with VW 508 00—so always double-check your oil cap and manual.

Bottle of synthetic motor oil 5W-40

Volkswagen Passat Oil FAQs

What oil type does a 2017 Volkswagen Passat 1.8T use?

Most 2017 Passat 1.8T models take 5W-40 full synthetic that meets VW 502 00. Always verify on the oil cap and in the owner’s manual.

Can I use 0W-40 in my Passat?

Often yes—if and only if the bottle explicitly lists VW 502 00 approval and your manual permits it. The approval matters more than the viscosity.

What oil does a 2020 Passat 2.0T use?

Many 2020 U.S. 2.0T models call for 0W-20 meeting VW 508 00. Confirm with the owner’s manual and the oil cap to be certain.

How often should I change the oil?

Typically every 7,500–10,000 miles on full synthetic. In severe conditions (short trips, extreme temps, heavy traffic), consider around 5,000 miles.

Where do I find the VW approval on the bottle?

Check the back label. Look for exact wording like Meets/Approved: VW 502 00, VW 504 00, VW 507 00, or VW 508 00. Don’t rely on generic statements.

Can I mix different viscosities or brands?

Top-offs in an emergency are okay, but don’t mix long-term. For best protection, stick with one oil that carries the exact VW approval required by your engine.

Still have oil questions?

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