GPJ

Given your requirements, I would then use Audi's recommendation for 501 or API Sx oils (see column B of your Audi oil chart).

For less than 15C, use any name-brand 10w-30/40 oils (but I would use only a 10W-40). I prefer high-mileage oils, like Castrol, Havoline, etc. They are more robust and typically consumed less oil in my 12V. Also I would use the severe schedule (3750 miles).

For greater than -15C, use any S-rated, name-brand 15W-40 oils, like Chevron Delo or Mobil Delvac 15W-40. I've used Delo for over 7000 miles with great oil test results and low consumption.

If it is severely cold where you live, you can use a high-mileage 5W-30, but Audi recommends to aviod high-speed, long-distance driving if above 15C.

Although, you said you do not want to use a synthetic, I would recommend Rotella T Syn 5W-40. Some consider this a regular oil, since it's a group III oil - but special. It's only about $13/gallon.

All these oils mentioned are available at Walmart and gave me reasonable oil consumption. My 12V has almost no oil deposits/discoloration under the valve covers.

Jretal

it's a hydrocracked synthetic so it's not 100% synthetic. I haven't had any leaking issues or anything from it cleaning away and sludge/grime from the gaskets. Been running it for the past 24k miles? something to that extent.

GPJ

Castrol 5W-50 is a great oil for me too. Engine runs smooth, fuel economy still remains high, no engine deposits under the valve cover, and very low oil consumption..

Luxus Panzer

why do you say that you would use only a 10W-40 oil in under 15C as opposed to 10-30?

I DO ALWAYS change my oil RIGHT at 3000 Miles (arround 5000KM)

GPJ

> why do you say that you would use only a 10W-40
> oil in under 15C as opposed to 10-30?

Because it's HTHS is probably greater than 3.5, where as the 10W-30's is probably not. Higher HTHS may offer better protection under certain conditions. 10W-40 may have more viscosity index improvers than 10W-30, but if you keep the change interval under 3750 miles (Audi's severe service interval in the US), you should be ok. It's a tradeoff in some engines - shearing/deposits vs. higher HTHS. Also if your engines makes greater than usual valve clatter when started, or is noiser when running, consider changing it out.

Many _may_s and _probably_s in my words ;-) because you should test the used motor oil to verify that it is working well in your engine. My advice is based on Audi's oil charts/recommendations and your requirements.