Changing Oil Pan In Audi A4: Step-By-Step Guide

Changing the oil pan on an Audi A4 3.0 is a fairly simple process, but it's important. Engine oil works as a lubricant for all the moving metal parts in your engine, and if the oil can't do its job, your engine could suffer permanent damage. The oil and filter on your Audi A4 3.0 should be changed every 5000 miles, or every 3000 to 4000 miles if your car has over 100,000 miles on it.

How to change the oil pan in an Audi A4 3.0

Remove the belly pan

To remove the belly pan from your Audi A4, you will need a flat-head screwdriver. This is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the correct steps to ensure the procedure is completed safely and effectively.

Firstly, drive your car onto ramps or jack stands to elevate the vehicle. Ensure the car is properly secured before proceeding.

Now, locate the belly pan. This is found underneath the vehicle, attached with several screws. Using your screwdriver, remove the screws holding the belly pan in place. There should be several screws on the bottom side, as well as a few in each wheel well. Once all the screws are removed, carefully detach the belly pan from the vehicle.

With the belly pan removed, you can proceed with the oil change or any other necessary maintenance. Remember to refer to a qualified mechanic or the Audi A4 manual for further guidance if needed.

Drain the oil

Step 1: Prepare your Audi A4 for an oil change

Before you begin, drive your Audi A4 for around 5-10 minutes to warm up the engine oil. This will ensure optimal oil flow and thorough drainage.

Park your car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and open the hood. Locate the oil filler cap and loosen it to minimise crankcase pressure, which will aid the flow of old oil from the engine.

Step 2: Position the oil drain pan

Place an oil drain pan container under the engine, just below the oil pan drain plug, which is located on the driver's side of the oil pan.

Step 3: Remove the belly pan

Use a flat-head or regular screwdriver to remove the belly pan or under-body splash pan. This will be held in place by several screws on the bottom side, as well as screws in each wheel well.

Step 4: Loosen and remove the oil pan drain plug

Using a 19mm wrench or socket wrench, loosen and remove the oil pan drain plug. Allow the oil to drain into the oil drain pan container.

Step 5: Inspect and replace the oil pan drain plug

While the oil is draining, inspect the oil pan drain plug and sealing washer. If the threads on the plug look worn, replace the oil drain plug. Reinstalling a worn plug may damage the internal threads of the oil pan, leading to the need for a replacement oil pan. If the washer looks crushed, it should also be replaced to prevent oil leaks.

Step 6: Clean up excess oil

Once the oil has drained, clean any excess oil from the oil pan drain plug area.

Step 7: Reinstall the oil pan drain plug

Install the oil drain plug and a new washer. Torque the drain plug to 21-22 ft. lb. or 264 lb/in (30 Nm).

Step 8: Refill the engine with oil

With the oil pan drain plug replaced, carefully remove the oil drain pan from under the car, taking care to avoid spillage. Wipe the oil pan to clean up any residual oil.

Change the oil filter

Changing the Oil Filter on an Audi A4 3.0L

The oil filter on an Audi A4 3.0L is located on the driver's side of the engine. To change the oil filter, follow these steps:

First, allow your engine oil to warm up by driving your Audi A4 for approximately 5-10 minutes. This will enable optimal oil flow and thorough drainage.

Next, open the hood and locate the oil fill cap. Loosen the cap but do not remove it. This will minimize crankcase pressure and make it easier for the old oil to drain from the engine.

Now, place an oil drain pan container under the engine oil pan drain plug, which is located on the driver's side of the oil pan. Using a 19mm wrench, loosen and remove the drain plug, allowing the oil to drain into the container.

While the oil is draining, inspect the drain plug and sealing washer for any signs of wear or damage. Replace them if necessary.

Once the oil has finished draining, place the oil drain pan container under the oil filter. Use an oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter in a counterclockwise direction. Be careful to minimize oil splashing.

After removing the oil filter, clean any excess oil from the oil pan. Install the new oil filter and seal, lightly lubricating the seal with new oil. Hand-tighten the filter, being careful not to over-torque it, as this can make future removal difficult.

Finally, fill the engine with approved VW 502 00 Audi A4 oil, using a funnel to minimize splashing. Do not overfill the engine, and check the oil level with the dipstick.

Additional Notes:

• It is recommended to refer to the owner's manual and factory manual for specific Audi oil change instructions.
• Always wear gloves and safety goggles when handling hot engine oil.
• Dispose of waste oil responsibly by taking it to a certified recycling collection center.

Refill the engine

Now that you've successfully replaced the oil pan on your Audi A4 3.0, it's time to refill the engine with fresh oil. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Prepare the Engine Oil and Tools

• For your Audi A4 3.0, you will need 7 litres of German Ravenol Motor Oil that meets Audi's motor oil quality standard 502 00 for 3.0L gasoline engines.
• Along with the engine oil, have ready a new Mahle Audi A4 oil filter and a new oil pan drain plug with a washer.
• Gather the necessary tools, including a regular screwdriver, a 19mm wrench, an oil filter wrench, and an oil drain pan container.

Step 2: Warm Up the Engine

Start your Audi A4 3.0 and drive it for approximately 5-10 minutes. This will warm up the old engine oil, allowing for optimal oil flow and thorough drainage.

Step 3: Open the Hood and Locate the Oil Fill Cap

• After driving, park your car on a level surface, turn off the engine, and open the hood.
• Locate the oil fill cap on the engine. Loosen the cap but do not remove it. Loosening the cap will reduce crankcase pressure, making it easier for the old oil to drain and minimising oil splashing.

Step 4: Remove the Under-body Splash Pan

• Using a regular screwdriver, remove the under-body splash pan located underneath the vehicle.
• The splash pan is typically secured by several screws on the bottom side, as well as screws in each wheel well. Remove these screws to detach the splash pan.

Step 5: Drain the Old Engine Oil

• Place the oil drain pan container just below the engine oil pan drain plug, which is located on the driver's side of the oil pan.
• Use the 19mm wrench to loosen and remove the oil pan drain plug. Allow the old engine oil to drain completely into the oil drain pan container.
• While the oil is draining, inspect the oil pan drain plug and sealing washer for any signs of wear or damage. If they appear worn or damaged, replace them to ensure a proper seal.

Step 6: Remove and Replace the Oil Filter

• Place the oil drain pan container under the oil filter, which is also located on the driver's side of the oil pan.
• Use the oil filter wrench to loosen and remove the oil filter in a counterclockwise direction, minimising oil splashing.
• Clean any excess oil from the oil pan area.
• Install the new oil filter and lubricate the new oil filter seal with a small amount of fresh oil.
• Thread the new oil filter back into place by hand, ensuring it is securely tightened but not over-torqued, as this can make future removal difficult.

Step 7: Refill the Engine with Fresh Oil

• Reinstall the oil fill cap and begin adding the approved VW 502 00 Audi A4 oil. Use a funnel to minimise oil splashing and spillage.
• Fill the engine with 0.5 litres to 1 litre LESS than the full capacity. The oil capacity for a 2003 Audi A4 3.0L V6 is 6.6 litres.
• Check the oil level using the dipstick, being careful not to overfill the engine. Add oil gradually until the proper oil level is reached on the dipstick. Do not exceed the maximum oil level indicated.

Step 8: Final Checks and Reinstallation

• Start the engine and run it for about 30 seconds to allow the oil filter housing to fill with oil.
• Turn off the engine and check the oil filter and oil drain plug sealing areas for any signs of leaks.
• If no leaks are found, reinstall the under-body splash pan, ensuring it is securely fastened.
• With the vehicle on a level surface, perform a final oil level inspection and add more Audi-approved oil as needed.
• Dispose of the waste oil responsibly by taking it to a certified recycling collection centre.

Remember to refer to your Audi A4 owner's manual and factory manual for specific instructions and safety precautions. Always exercise caution when handling hot engine oil and wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves and safety goggles.

Reset the oil change interval

To reset the oil change interval on a 2017 Audi A4, follow these steps:

• Start the engine.
• Press the MENU button to access the VEHICLE menu and select with the left control button.
• Select "Service & Checks".
• Select "SERVICE INTERVALS".
• Select "RESET OIL CHANGE INTERVAL".
• Turn off the ignition.
• Start the engine again and verify that the indicator has been reset.

For other Audi A4 models, the process may be similar, but it is always recommended to refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions. It is important to note that resetting the oil change interval is different from resetting the "service due" indicator light, which indicates the need for a comprehensive check-up.

Additionally, keeping detailed service records is essential for proper vehicle maintenance and future resale value. This includes noting the current mileage at the time of the oil change and the date when the next oil change is due.

Frequently asked questions