Shop notes · 5 min read
Volkswagen Passat oil type 2016, 2017, 2018
U.S. 1.8 TSI Passat in these years: VW 502 00, typically 5W-40. TDI is a different spec (507 00). Do not grab Tiguan 0W-20 and hope.
Updated 2026-09-17 · Platinum Volkswagen, Hicksville, NY

These three years are the ones people still search. Most U.S. gas Passats here are the 1.8 TSI, not the later 2.0T and not a Tiguan.
| Year | Common U.S. engine | VW spec | Viscosity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 Passat | 1.8 TSI | 502 00 | 5W-40 |
| 2017 Passat | 1.8 TSI | 502 00 | 5W-40 |
| 2018 Passat | 1.8 TSI | 502 00 | 5W-40 |
| TDI (if you have one) | 2.0 TDI | 507 00 | Low-ash diesel oil — not 502, not 508 |
Capacity on the 1.8 TSI is typically around 5.8 quarts with filter. Pour short, warm it, read the stick. We still service Passats on Nelson Ave even though VW stopped selling them new.
- Best oil for a 2016 VW Passat 1.8 TSI?
- Fully synthetic with VW 502 00 on the label. 5W-40 is the usual viscosity in the U.S. booklet.
- 2016 Passat TDI?
- VW 507 00. Not the gas spec. Not 0W-20 508.
Education, not a work order. Specs vary by VIN. Owner’s manual and a quote from Platinum Volkswagen LLC win arguments. Schedule service.
