Originally Posted By: nolesfan
Originally Posted By: edyvw
Originally Posted By: nolesfan
As others have said, the dealer Castrol 5w40 is suitable and obviously meets VW502 spec, Castrol's 0w40 and Mobil1 0w40 are much better and no more expensive, and most likely cheaper since you can get them in 5 quart jugs at Wal-Mart for about $26. Also, don't let him use the M1 5w30 no matter which one it is; it doesn't meet VW502 spec.
Depending on quality of gas, VW 504.00/507.00 is better suitable for DI engines and 5K OCI.
Though, I would say that I would feel confident using that spec for 5k only in California.
I don't disagree with this. That's why I'm currently running Motul 8100 x-clean 5w40, which meets MB229.51 and VW502 (which my car requires). I'm hoping with it being lower SAPS (MB229.51 spec) it'll help slow down intake valve buildup.
VW 505.01 has a lower SAPS content than oils that just meet VW 505. I would consider an oil that meets 502, 505, and 505.01. The current Valvoline 5w40 meets those specs, and NAPA has it.