After which year do Audis stop burning oil?
3 Answers
Currently, none. Below is relevant information about engine oil: Introduction: Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, with a density of approximately 0.91×10³ (kg/m³), serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide cushioning and shock absorption for the engine. Requirements: As a type of machinery, engines have specific requirements for lubricants, similar to other machinery, such as appropriate viscosity, certain anti-oxidation, anti-wear, anti-corrosion, and viscosity-temperature properties. Composition: Engine oil consists of two parts: base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of the lubricant, determining its fundamental properties, while additives can compensate for and improve any deficiencies in the base oil's performance, granting it new properties, making them an essential part of the lubricant.
I've been repairing cars for nearly twenty years and have handled quite a few Audis. The oil burning issue is particularly concentrated in Audi vehicles produced around 2012, especially those equipped with the second-generation EA888 engine, which was particularly severe. Around 2016 and later, Audi made improvements to the third-generation EA888 engine, introducing newly designed piston rings and an updated oil separator, which largely normalized oil consumption. I've encountered many customers who purchased A4L or Q5 models after 2016, and most reported no longer needing to keep spare oil in the trunk. However, it's important to maintain the engine properly—use full synthetic oil for regular changes and inspect for cylinder carbon buildup as the mileage increases.
As a long-time Audi owner, my 2010 A4L now requires oil top-ups twice a month, and I always keep a spare bottle in the trunk. But my neighbor's A6L purchased last year doesn't burn any oil at all – it's a 2018 model. After talking with the 4S shop technician, I learned that 2015-2016 was a turning point. The third-generation engines redesigned the piston ring oil-scraping system and improved the crankcase ventilation structure. When choosing a used car, it's recommended to prioritize vehicles manufactured after 2016 and check whether the engine model has the EVO suffix, which indicates the updated engine design.
