1997 Volkswagen PASSAT Oil Capacity, Types, & Filters

Your ultimate DIY maintenance guide for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT oil change is here! No more searching – find all the critical oil specs for your 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT, including exact engine oil capacity, the manufacturer recommended oil viscosity and type, and the correct OEM and aftermarket oil filters.

We cover all available engine options categorized by their specific engine codes, ensuring you get pinpoint accuracy for your specific vehicle configuration. Keep reading to discover everything required for a successful 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT oil change!

Scroll Table ➜

Engine & Code	Oil Capacity	Oil Viscosity/Type	Oil Filter
1.9L 4-cylinder [F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo	4.8 quarts (with filter)	SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C) SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS) 5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS)	Volkswagen 068-115-561-E Volkswagen 056-115-561-G Volkswagen 068-115-561-B
1.9L 4-cylinder [G] G Diesel Turbo	4.8 quarts (with filter)	SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (15 to -17°C) SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (-15 to 40°C) SAE 5W-30, SAE 5W-40 (15 to -30°C) 5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (-30 to 40°C)	Volkswagen 068-115-561-E Volkswagen 056-115-561-G Volkswagen 068-115-561-B
1.9L 4-cylinder AAZ Z Diesel Turbo	N/A	N/A	Volkswagen 068-115-561-E Volkswagen 056-115-561-G Volkswagen 068-115-561-B
2.8L 6-cylinder [E] AAA 5	5.8 quarts (with filter)	10W (Below -5°C) SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C) SAE 20W-20 (-10 To 10°C) 30 (0 To 30°C) 40 (Above 20°C) SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS) 5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS)	Volkswagen 021-115-562-A

Select Your 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT Engine Option

1.9L 4-cylinder Engine Code [F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo

Engine:

1.9L 4-cylinder [F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo [aka 1.9L L4 (Diesel)]

Body & Trims:

TDI

Oil Capacity:

4.8 quarts (with filter)

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C)
SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS)
5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS)

OEM Oil Filter:

Volkswagen 068-115-561-E, Volkswagen 056-115-561-G and Volkswagen 068-115-561-B

Oil Filter Replaces:

068-115-561

1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder [F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo oil change details

Oil Grade:

CH-4

Oil Capacity:

4.8 quarts. (with filter). Capacity is with the filter installed. Add 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts) less than the total capacity shown. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches approximately 60°C (140°F). Then, switch the engine off, wait 3 minutes, and check the dipstick. Add oil to reach the full mark. The final amount needed may be more or less than 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts).

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C)
SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS) - This applies when using energy-conserving oils.
5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS)

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Air Filter:

N/A

Coolant Capacity:

5.8 quarts - For models with an Automatic Transaxle (ATXL).
5.8 quarts - For models with a Manual Transaxle (MTXL).

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

22 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug)

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo) take?

A complete oil change for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder (with engine code [F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo) requires 4.8 quarts (with filter) of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder is using:

Ensure the oil you choose meets the CH-4 standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo)?

The factory-recommended OEM oil filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder is the Volkswagen 068-115-561-E, Volkswagen 056-115-561-G or Volkswagen 068-115-561-B. If you prefer a top-tier aftermarket option, the Wix or other equivalent found in oil filter cross-reference catalog for this trim is an excellent choice.

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo)?

To prevent leaks or stripped oil pan threads, the drain plug on the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder should be tightened to exactly 22 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) and we also recommend installing a new crush washer with every oil change.

What is the correct air filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo)?

For optimal engine performance and clean airflow, the recommended engine air filter replacement for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder is the Wix or other equivalent found in air filter cross-reference catalog for this trim compatible with your intake system. It is a good maintenance habit to inspect this filter during every oil change.

What is the coolant capacity for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder is:

5.8 quarts - For models with an Automatic Transaxle (ATXL).
5.8 quarts - For models with a Manual Transaxle (MTXL).

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

1.9L 4-cylinder Engine Code [G] G Diesel Turbo

Engine:

1.9L 4-cylinder [G] G Diesel Turbo [aka 1.9L L4 (Diesel)]

Body & Trims:

TDI

Oil Capacity:

4.8 quarts (with filter)

Oil Viscosity/Type:

SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (15 to -17°C)
SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (-15 to 40°C)
SAE 5W-30, SAE 5W-40 (15 to -30°C)
5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (-30 to 40°C)

OEM Oil Filter:

Volkswagen 068-115-561-E, Volkswagen 056-115-561-G and Volkswagen 068-115-561-B

Oil Filter Replaces:

068-115-561

1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder [G] G Diesel Turbo oil change details

Oil Grade:

CH-4

Oil Capacity:

Oil Viscosity/Type:

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Air Filter:

N/A

Coolant Capacity:

N/A

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

22 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug)

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([G] G Diesel Turbo) take?

A complete oil change for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder (with engine code [G] G Diesel Turbo) requires 4.8 quarts (with filter) of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([G] G Diesel Turbo)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder is using:

Ensure the oil you choose meets the CH-4 standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([G] G Diesel Turbo)?

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([G] G Diesel Turbo)?

What is the correct air filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([G] G Diesel Turbo)?

What is the coolant capacity for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder ([G] G Diesel Turbo)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder is:

determined by your specific installed cooling package

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

1.9L 4-cylinder Engine Code AAZ Z Diesel Turbo

Engine:

1.9L 4-cylinder AAZ Z Diesel Turbo [aka 1.9L L4 (Diesel)]

Body & Trims:

TDI

Oil Capacity:

N/A

Oil Viscosity/Type:

N/A

OEM Oil Filter:

Volkswagen 068-115-561-E, Volkswagen 056-115-561-G and Volkswagen 068-115-561-B

Oil Filter Replaces:

068-115-561

1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder AAZ Z Diesel Turbo oil change details

Oil Grade:

N/A

Oil Capacity:

N/A

Oil Viscosity/Type:

N/A

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Air Filter:

N/A

Coolant Capacity:

N/A

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

N/A

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder (AAZ Z Diesel Turbo) take?

A complete oil change for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder (with engine code AAZ Z Diesel Turbo) requires the precise volume listed in your owner’s manual of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder (AAZ Z Diesel Turbo)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder is using:

the specific viscosity grade listed on your oil cap or owner’s manual.

Ensure the oil you choose meets the appropriate API or manufacturer OEM standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder (AAZ Z Diesel Turbo)?

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder (AAZ Z Diesel Turbo)?

To prevent leaks or stripped oil pan threads, the drain plug on the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder should be tightened to exactly the factory specified ft-lbs and we also recommend installing a new crush washer with every oil change.

What is the correct air filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder (AAZ Z Diesel Turbo)?

What is the coolant capacity for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder (AAZ Z Diesel Turbo)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 1.9L 4-cylinder is:

determined by your specific installed cooling package

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

2.8L 6-cylinder Engine Code [E] AAA 5

Engine:

2.8L 6-cylinder [E] AAA 5 [aka 2.8L V6 (Gas)]

Body & Trims:

GLX

Oil Capacity:

5.8 quarts (with filter)

Oil Viscosity/Type:

10W (Below -5°C)
SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C)
SAE 20W-20 (-10 To 10°C)
30 (0 To 30°C)
40 (Above 20°C)
SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS)
5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS)

OEM Oil Filter:

Volkswagen 021-115-562-A

Oil Filter Replaces:

N/A

1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder [E] AAA 5 oil change details

Oil Grade:

Oil Capacity:

5.8 quarts. (with filter). Capacity is with the filter installed. Add 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts) less than the total capacity shown. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches approximately 60°C (140°F). Then, switch the engine off, wait 3 minutes, and check the dipstick. Add oil to reach the full mark. The final amount needed may be more or less than 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts).

Oil Viscosity/Type:

10W (Below -5°C)
SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C)
SAE 20W-20 (-10 To 10°C)
30 (0 To 30°C)
40 (Above 20°C)
SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS) - This applies when using energy-conserving oils.
5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS)

Name of Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Oil Filter:

N/A

Wix Air Filter:

N/A

Coolant Capacity:

10.4 quarts

Oil Drain Plug Torque:

22 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug)

Notes:

N/A

How much oil does the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder ([E] AAA 5) take?

A complete oil change for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder (with engine code [E] AAA 5) requires 5.8 quarts (with filter) of engine oil. To ensure safety and performance, always verify the level on the dipstick after refilling.

What type of oil is recommended for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder ([E] AAA 5)?

For optimal engine longevity, the manufacturer recommended motor oil for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder is using:

Ensure the oil you choose meets the SJ standard.

What is the best oil filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder ([E] AAA 5)?

The factory-recommended OEM oil filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder is the Volkswagen 021-115-562-A. If you prefer a top-tier aftermarket option, the Wix or other equivalent found in oil filter cross-reference catalog for this trim is an excellent choice.

What is the oil drain plug torque spec for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder ([E] AAA 5)?

To prevent leaks or stripped oil pan threads, the drain plug on the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder should be tightened to exactly 22 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) and we also recommend installing a new crush washer with every oil change.

What is the correct air filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder ([E] AAA 5)?

For optimal engine performance and clean airflow, the recommended engine air filter replacement for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder is the Wix or other equivalent found in air filter cross-reference catalog for this trim compatible with your intake system. It is a good maintenance habit to inspect this filter during every oil change.

What is the coolant capacity for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder ([E] AAA 5)?

The total engine coolant (antifreeze) capacity for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT 2.8L 6-cylinder is:

10.4 quarts

Always ensure you use the manufacturer-approved coolant color and type to prevent internal corrosion.

People also ask – 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT

What is the oil capacity of a 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT?

Depending on the specific engine option, the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT oil capacity ranges from 4.8 to 5.8 quarts. Here is the exact oil capacity breakdown for each available engine configuration:

• 1.9L 4-cylinder ([F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo): 4.8 quarts. (with filter). Capacity is with the filter installed. Add 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts) less than the total capacity shown. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches approximately 60°C (140°F). Then, switch the engine off, wait 3 minutes, and check the dipstick. Add oil to reach the full mark. The final amount needed may be more or less than 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts).
• 1.9L 4-cylinder ([G] G Diesel Turbo): 4.8 quarts. (with filter). Capacity is with the filter installed. Add 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts) less than the total capacity shown. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches approximately 60°C (140°F). Then, switch the engine off, wait 3 minutes, and check the dipstick. Add oil to reach the full mark. The final amount needed may be more or less than 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts).
• 1.9L 4-cylinder (AAZ Z Diesel Turbo): Check Owner's Manual
• 2.8L 6-cylinder ([E] AAA 5): 5.8 quarts. (with filter). Capacity is with the filter installed. Add 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts) less than the total capacity shown. Start the engine and let it run until it reaches approximately 60°C (140°F). Then, switch the engine off, wait 3 minutes, and check the dipstick. Add oil to reach the full mark. The final amount needed may be more or less than 0.5 Liters (0.5 quarts).

Always check your dipstick after refilling to ensure the proper level.

What type of oil does a 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT use?

Across its 4 available engine configurations, the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT uses the following motor oil viscosities: SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C)SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS)5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS), SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (15 to -17°C)SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (-15 to 40°C)SAE 5W-30, SAE 5W-40 (15 to -30°C)5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (-30 to 40°C) and 10W (Below -5°C)SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C)SAE 20W-20 (-10 To 10°C) 30 (0 To 30°C) 40 (Above 20°C)SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS)5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS). Using the correct manufacturer-approved oil weight is crucial for engine health. Here are the specific oil type requirements by engine:

• 1.9L 4-cylinder ([F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo):
Grade: CH-4
SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C)
SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS) - This applies when using energy-conserving oils.
5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS)

• 1.9L 4-cylinder ([G] G Diesel Turbo):
Grade: CH-4
SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (15 to -17°C)
SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (-15 to 40°C)
SAE 5W-30, SAE 5W-40 (15 to -30°C)
5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (-30 to 40°C)

• 1.9L 4-cylinder (AAZ Z Diesel Turbo):
Grade: OEM Standard
See Cap or Owner's Manual

• 2.8L 6-cylinder ([E] AAA 5):
Grade: SJ
10W (Below -5°C)
SAE 15W-40, SAE 15W-50, SAE 20W-40, SAE 20W-50 (Above -15°C)
SAE 20W-20 (-10 To 10°C)
30 (0 To 30°C)
40 (Above 20°C)
SAE 5W-40, SAE 5W-30, SAE 10W-30, SAE 10W-40 (All TEMPS) - This applies when using energy-conserving oils.
5W-50, SAE 10W-50, SAE 10W-60 (All TEMPS)

What is the best oil filter for the 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT?

The proper oil filter depends on your exact engine code. The 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT utilizes the following premium aftermarket Wix oil filters across its lineup: . Here is the specific OEM and aftermarket filter data for each engine:

• 1.9L 4-cylinder ([F] [G][J] 1 Diesel Turbo):
OEM Filter: Volkswagen 068-115-561-E, Volkswagen 056-115-561-G or Volkswagen 068-115-561-B
Wix Filter: Check Cross-reference Catalog

• 1.9L 4-cylinder ([G] G Diesel Turbo):
OEM Filter: Volkswagen 068-115-561-E, Volkswagen 056-115-561-G or Volkswagen 068-115-561-B
Wix Filter: Check Cross-reference Catalog

• 1.9L 4-cylinder (AAZ Z Diesel Turbo):
OEM Filter: Volkswagen 068-115-561-E, Volkswagen 056-115-561-G or Volkswagen 068-115-561-B
Wix Filter: Check Cross-reference Catalog

• 2.8L 6-cylinder ([E] AAA 5):
OEM Filter: Volkswagen 021-115-562-A
Wix Filter: Check Cross-reference Catalog

How often should I change the oil in my 1997 Volkswagen PASSAT?

For modern models running full synthetic oil, oil change intervals are typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles. However, for older Volkswagen PASSAT generations (1985-2010) or those using conventional/synthetic-blend fluid, changing the oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles is highly recommended to prevent sludge buildup. Regardless of engine (1.9L 4-cylinder and 2.8L 6-cylinder), you should change your oil at least once a year even if you don’t reach the mileage limit.

Volkswagen PASSAT – Engine Oil details by Year