Hey just recently purchased a 98 ocatavia with a 1.6 AKL 74KW engine. My questions are what kind of oil is best to throw in. Im guessing synthetic would be ok but am unsure at the moment. The previous owner had some 10w-40 in it and said its fine. Also, how much oil does it need, for a full drain and fill, including filter change? Thank you.

Pat

4,7 litres including the oil filter for AKL.

The specifications should be stated in the handbook of the car. I have a 2000 mod. with the AKL engine, and my handbook specifyes vw 500 00, vw 502 00 or vw 501 01.

Check your handbook and consult a dealer.

Any good semi synthetic 10W40 will do.

Any petrol grade oil of 10w40, or so, thicker (ie 15w40 or higher) if higher mileage (80k+), or if there is any oil burning. If it is running without oil los son 10w40 keep it at that. Do not go off buying VW spoec oils form VW group dealers. Buy any that has a minimum of API SJ specification, whatever brand. Don't be fooled by marketing, the specification of SJ is fine whoever 'brands' it, as long as a known entity - Comma, Carlube, Morris, Tesco, Asda, Halfords, BP, Shell and many, many, more to choose from.

PS I am a trained experienced mecahnic and been in the trade long enouigh to know my oils.

Surely an API SL (I'd say SM but they're not quite out yet), but I'd agree with the 10W40 viscosity.

As above really, 10w-40 semi synthetic or if you really want to treat it a 5w-40 full synthetic.

Cheers

Guy.