Steps to Reset the Audi A4 Service Interval Reminder Light (2008-2015)
Press the start button twice without your foot on the brake to put the Audi A4 into run mode (engine off) OR start the engine.
Press the MENU button under the shift selector.
Use the Scroll Wheel and Joystick to Select CAR.
Select SERVICING & CHECKS.
Select SERVICE INTERVALS.
Turn the scroll wheel/joystick to scroll down on the page that reads “Next Oil Change: in 10000 mi/ 365 days” and select RESET OIL CHANGE INTERVAL.
A prompt will appear “Are you sure you want to reset the oil change interval?”. Select YES.
A message will appear that reads “The oil change interval has been reset”.
The 2008-2015 Audi A4 Service Required Maintenance reminder should only be reset after changing the oil and oil filter on the car.
Why It's Important to Reset the Audi A4 Maintenance Reminder Light
It’s important to reset the service light in your Audi A4 to keep track of when an oil change is due and to check the health of the engine oil. It also helps in knowing when to schedule your next service.
KEEP A PERSONAL RECORD OF ALL MAINTENANCE
It’s beneficial to maintain a personal record of every oil change and related maintenance activities. Accumulate and file all important service documents. Adopting this method not only provides the best maintenance for your Audi A4 but also creates a documented history of regular care, which can be advantageous when selling the car in the future.
Audi A4 Oil Type and Quantity
The 2008-2015 Audi A4 2.0L requires 4.9 Quarts of 5W-40 Synthetic oil.
Synthetic or Conventional Oil?
It’s recommended to use synthetic motor oil for the Audi A4’s engine. It’s best to be consistent with the type of engine oil you’ve been using. If your Audi A4 has been running on synthetic oil, keep using it. However, if you’ve been using conventional oil or a synthetic blend, it’s wise to continue with the same.
TIP: Bring your own oil to your local shop to save money on oil mark-ups.
How Often Should You Change the Oil on Your Audi A4?
It’s strongly advised to change the oil in your Audi A4 every 3,000 miles. Although there are recommendations for longer intervals from some specialists, service centers, and dealers, adhering to the 3,000-mile schedule is crucial. Maintaining this frequency is essential for keeping your Audi A4’s engine in top condition and preventing various potential issues. Frequent oil changes help maintain engine efficiency and allow for a thorough inspection of the vehicle during each service. This practice plays a significant role in identifying and addressing small problems before they develop into major ones.
What to Do If the Audi A4 Maintenance Reminder Reset Procedure Does Not Work?
If you face difficulties in resetting the service light on your Audi A4, it may be helpful to start the process over. First, turn off both the engine and the ignition and then initiate the reset sequence from the beginning. Ensure that the hood and all doors are securely closed before moving forward.
Why is the Audi A4 Maintenance Required Reminder Still On After An Oil Change?
Merely replacing the oil and oil filter does not automatically turn off or reset the service light in the Audi A4. If the oil life percentage in your Audi A4 remains unchanged after an oil change, this typically suggests that the reset process wasn’t carried out following the oil replacement.
Audi A4 Maintenance Tips
Check Tire Pressure and Tire Tread
The suggested tire pressure for your Audi A4 can be found on a white label located on the door panel, visible when you open the driver’s side door. To avoid overinflating the tires, inflate them while they are cold, which is either three hours after the car has been driven or before you begin driving. To assess tire tread wear, you can use the penny test or a tread depth gauge.
Rotate Your Tires
We advise rotating the tires of your Audi A4 with every other oil change, assuming you’re following our suggested 3,000-mile oil change interval, or otherwise every 6,000 miles.
TIP: If your local shop or dealership recommends new tires for your Audi A4, check your tire tread yourself with a tire tread depth gauge!
Check the Coolant Level
Ensure that the coolant in the reservoir is at the appropriate level, positioned between the minimum and maximum indicator lines. Using a flashlight can help to see more clearly inside the coolant container. Given that the coolant system is sealed, a noticeably low level of coolant might indicate a leak. Performing a pressure test on the system is a reliable way to identify any potential leaks.
Check the Brake Pads and Rotors
Check the thickness of the brake pads on both the front and rear brakes of your Audi A4 to ensure they have sufficient material. Use a brake pad gauge for a precise measurement of thickness. Also, inspect the brake rotors for signs of rust or irregularities. When your Audi A4 is raised on a jack or lift, manually spin each wheel (with the parking brake released) to verify that they rotate smoothly. If you encounter resistance in the movement of any wheel, it could suggest a problem with the brake caliper or stuck slider pins in the caliper.
Check Brake Fluid Reservoir
Keeping the brake fluid reservoir in your Audi A4 full is crucial. If you find that the brake fluid level is unusually low, it often indicates a leak in the system. In such cases, first top up the brake fluid reservoir, pump the brake pedal, and then inspect the brake calipers and lines for any signs of leakage.
Check Washer Fluid Level
Top up your washer fluid reservoir. In colder months, opt for a washer fluid that contains antifreeze to prevent it from freezing in the container.
Check the Engine and Cabin Air Filters
Open the air filter box in your Audi A4 and remove the air filter. Clean it with compressed air, a vacuum, or by shaking out the dust and debris if it appears dirty. If the filter is overly soiled, it’s best to replace it. If it still looks relatively clean, simply reinsert it. Also, remember to check the cabin air filter behind the glove box, which filters the air inside the car. Replace the cabin air filter if it’s dirty or has never been changed.
Check Power Steering Fluid
Make sure that the power steering fluid in your Audi A4 is filled to the ‘full’ mark on the reservoir. If the fluid level is below normal, it could indicate a leak in the power steering system. If you find the level is low, top up the fluid and then check the power steering rack and lines for any signs of leaks.
Benefits of Regular Oil Changes
During my decade-long career as an automotive technician in both dealership and independent garage environments, I’ve noticed that cars lacking routine maintenance often suffer more frequent and severe issues. While some automakers advise oil change intervals ranging from 5,000 to 25,000 miles, I advocate for a more conservative 3,000-mile oil change regimen for the Audi A4, irrespective of the manufacturer’s recommendations. This practice is essential for maintaining peak performance and prolonging the vehicle’s lifespan. Consistent oil changes are key in minimizing engine wear and can enhance fuel efficiency by as much as 2%. They also aid in keeping the engine clean and avoiding the accumulation of damaging deposits that can reduce the engine’s longevity.