How Often Should You Change Motor Oil In Your Audi Q7?

What's the purpose of engine oil?

It's a well-known fact that regular oil change is essential for smooth engine operation. But, have you ever wondered, what makes motor or engine oil so important for the engine's well-being? To figure this out, you have to understand the working principle of a car engine.

To power your car, the engine has to go through a four-stroke combustion cycle; fuel intake, compression, ignition, and exhaust. The mechanical energy generated due to this process keeps your vehicle in motion. The sole purpose of engine oil is to circulate throughout the engine to minimize friction among numerous moving components. In addition to lubrication, it has the following responsibilities;

Prevent rust and corrosion

Stop premature wear and tear

Help to get rid of the dirt and other contaminants

Improve gas mileage

Extend engine life

When should you change your Audi Q7 oil?

Engine oil degrades over time and needs to be replaced. Usually, it lasts for about 3,000 to 5,000 miles. But synthetic oil can easily last for 7,500 to 10,000 miles and needs to be replaced thereafter. But you should be very cautious while selecting the engine oil for your Audi Q7. Follow the recommendations given in the owner’s manual.

Audi-approved motor oil for gasoline and diesel engines are SAE 5W-40 and SAE 5W-30 respectively. And, in the case of R8 GT and R8 V10 Audi recommends using SAE 10W-60. So, if you own an Audi Q7, then only use SAE 5W-40 for better outcomes. Let's find out the reasons behind motor oil degradation in your Audi Q7.

Why does engine oil degrade in your Audi Q7?

The following factors determine how often your Audi Q7 needs an oil change.

Oxidation

Thermal breakdown

Oil dilution due to the presence of water

Use of low-quality oil

Environmental temperature

Driving with heavy loads

Bad driving habits

Signs your Audi Q7 needs oil change

Oil is dirty and black

Color and texture tell you a lot about the condition of engine oil. In general, engine oil is a translucent amber-colored fluid. However, oxidation and thermal breakdown make the engine oil change its color to dark brown or black. So, use a dipstick to check the color and texture of the motor oil used in your Audi Q7. If its color has changed to black and it is highly contaminated, then consider replacing it.

Engine is running hot

Running low on oil or using highly deteriorated oil can cause engine overheating in your Audi Q7. The temperature of an internal combustion engine is supposed to stay within the range of 195 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit. Proper lubrication is essential for optimal engine temperature. However, degradation and contamination can change the chemical properties of the motor oil as a result of which your car engine might run too hot and eventually cease to operate.

Blinking check engine light

A blinking check engine light signals a serious engine problem that needs to be immediately taken care of. Or, it could simply mean your Audi Q7 is running low on oil or needs oil change. All you have to do is to pull over your car and check the quality and quantity of the motor oil with the help of a dipstick. If the oil is heavily contaminated and oxidized, consider replacing it.

Strange engine noise

It is another characteristic of engine oil deterioration in your Audi Q7. The motor oil is supposed to minimize friction among adjacent engine components. However, it thickens over time due to sludge accumulation and degradation, thus loses its lubrication ability. An increase in friction due to sludgy motor oil makes the engine run rough and generate strange noises. If your Audi Q7 is making ticking, tapping, or knocking noises while in operation, the time has come for an oil change.

Burning odor

As we have already discussed, lack of lubrication due to motor oil degradation makes the engine run hot. A rise in the engine temperature makes the oil boil. As a result of this, you might smell a peculiar burning odor. Replace the motor oil regularly to keep the engine temperature stable.

Closing thoughts

The engine needs an adequate amount of motor oil to run smoothly. However, it has an expiry date and needs to be replaced thereafter. You can expect it to last for about 3,000 to 5,000 miles and up to 10,000 miles in the case of synthetic oil. So, check the quality and quantity of motor oil level in your Audi Q7 regularly and if necessary replace it.

Vaughan Automotive is a leading European auto maintenance and repair facility located in Atlanta having years of experience in looking after high-end European cars like Audi, BMW, Jaguar, land Rover, Mercedes, Mini, Porsche, and Volkswagen.