Volkswagen Polo Engine Oil — Grade, Capacity & Recommendations (2018-2024)
Oil Specification by Engine
| Engine | Oil grade | VW specification | Capacity (inc. filter) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 MPI (petrol) | 5W-30 | VW 502 00 | ~3.7 L |
| 1.0 TSI (petrol) | 5W-30 | VW 504 00 | ~4.0 L |
| 2.0 TSI (Polo GTI) | 5W-30 | VW 504 00 | ~4.6 L |
Not sure which spec you need? The required VW oil number is printed on the oil filler cap, and the engine code is in section D.2 of your V5C.
The naturally aspirated 1.0 MPI uses full-SAPS VW 502 00; the turbocharged TSI engines (including the GTI) use low-SAPS VW 504 00. Capacities are approximate — confirm by VIN.
Recommended Engine Oils
TSI petrol — 5W-30, VW 504 00
Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30
Full-synthetic 5W-30 approved to VW 504 00 / 507 00, low-SAPS for the DPF.
1.0 MPI — 5W-30, VW 502 00
Any 5W-30 meeting VW 502 00
For the naturally aspirated 1.0 MPI, use a 5W-30 carrying VW 502 00 (e.g. Castrol Magnatec 5W-30 A3/B4).
VW 502 00 or 504 00: Which Does Your Polo Need?
The Polo splits two ways. The 1.0 MPI naturally aspirated petrol uses VW 502 00, a full-SAPS oil with strong anti-wear protection. The turbocharged 1.0 TSI and 2.0 TSI (GTI) use VW 504 00, a low-SAPS LongLife oil that also protects the catalyst and reduces TSI carbon build-up.
Both are 5W-30, so the viscosity is the same — what matters is the VW approval number. Always check the filler cap.
Oil Change Intervals
On VW’s LongLife (variable) servicing the car can run up to about 2 years or 18,000–20,000 miles between changes; many owners prefer fixed servicing (12 months or ~10,000 miles), which is gentler on TSI carbon build-up and the diesel DPF.
Tip: always change the filter with the oil, and use a LongLife-rated oil if you stay on variable servicing.
How to Check Your Oil Level
Step 1: Park on level ground and wait at least 5 minutes after turning off the engine.
Step 2: Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert fully, then remove again to read the level.
Step 3: The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks. Top up in small amounts if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What oil does a VW Polo (2017 on) take?
A 5W-30 — the turbo TSI engines to VW 504 00 and the 1.0 MPI to VW 502 00. The current Polo is petrol-only.
Is the Polo GTI oil different?
No — the 2.0 TSI in the Polo GTI uses the same 5W-30 to VW 504 00 as the 1.0 TSI.
Can I use any 5W-30 in my Polo?
Only if it carries the right VW number for your engine (504 00 for TSI, 502 00 for the 1.0 MPI). A generic 5W-30 without the approval is not recommended.
How much oil does a Polo 1.0 TSI take?
Around 4 litres including a filter change. Confirm the exact figure in your handbook.
Other Volkswagen Polo Guides
Bulb GuideHeadlight & indicator bulbs
Cabin Filter GuideFilter type & replacement
Battery GuideSize, type & specs
Spark Plug GuideType & gap settings
How we check fitment for this guide
We cross-reference fitment figures against manufacturer specifications and OE-supplier catalogue data where available, and matched to the standard codes that actually govern fit — battery type/group sizes, wiper lengths and fitting types, bulb fitment codes, tyre size markings, and oil specifications. We work by make, model, year, engine, and build date, because a single model can take different parts across its life. Where the right part depends on your exact vehicle, we tell you to confirm by registration or VIN. More on our method →