Can I mix 5W20 with 5W30?
As a car owner, you might find yourself in a situation where you have two different types of motor oil—5W20 and 5W30—and wonder if it’s safe to mix them. At Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we understand the importance of using the right oil for your vehicle. Let’s dive into whether mixing these two oils is advisable and what you should consider before doing so.
Understanding the Difference Between 5W20 and 5W30
Both 5W20 and 5W30 are multi-grade motor oils, meaning they are designed to perform well in a range of temperatures. The numbers in their names refer to their viscosity ratings:
- 5W: Indicates the oil's viscosity in cold temperatures (the "W" stands for winter).
- 20 or 30: Refers to the oil's viscosity at operating temperature, with higher numbers indicating thicker oil.
The main difference is that 5W30 is slightly thicker than 5W20 at higher temperatures, which can provide better protection in hotter climates or under heavy engine loads. On the other hand, 5W20 is thinner and can improve fuel efficiency in colder climates or under normal driving conditions.
Is It Safe to Mix 5W20 and 5W30?
In general, mixing 5W20 and 5W30 oils is not harmful to your engine in the short term. Both oils are compatible because they are made from similar base oils and additives. However, there are a few important considerations:
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended oil viscosity. Using the wrong viscosity can affect engine performance and longevity.
- Blended Viscosity: Mixing the two oils will result in a viscosity somewhere between 5W20 and 5W30. This may not provide optimal performance for your engine, especially in extreme temperatures.
- Warranty Concerns: If your vehicle is under warranty, using a non-recommended oil viscosity could void the warranty.
When Mixing Might Be Necessary
There are situations where mixing 5W20 and 5W30 might be unavoidable, such as:
- When you’re low on oil and only have access to a different viscosity.
- In emergencies where you need to top off your oil to prevent engine damage.
In these cases, it’s better to mix the oils than to run your engine with insufficient oil. However, make sure to replace the mixed oil with the correct viscosity as soon as possible.
Our Expert Advice
At Kevin's Autos, we recommend sticking to the oil viscosity specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer whenever possible. While mixing 5W20 and 5W30 won’t cause immediate harm, it’s not ideal for long-term engine health. If you’re unsure about which oil to use or need an oil change, feel free to visit us for professional advice and service. Your engine deserves the best care, and we’re here to help!
Frequently Asked Questions
What oil can I mix with 5W-30?
Yes, you can mix 5W30 with 5W40 motor oil. Both oils have the same viscosity at low temperatures (the ``5W'' part), meaning they will flow similarly when starting your engine in cold conditions. However, the difference lies in their viscosity at higher temperatures; 5W40 is thicker than 5W30 when the engine is hot.
Can you mix ow 20 and 5W 30?
It won't be a problem, though if you are under warranty they might ask for proof of proper oil changes (should something ever happen). Mixing 0w20 and 5w30 will typically give you a heavy 20-weight or light 30-weight.
Can I mix 5w20 synthetic with regular oil?
The short answer is yes. There is no danger or risk of combustion, and mixing the two types of oil won't harm your engine. However, it's important to note that if you do mix the two, the conventional oil can keep the synthetic from performing to its fullest potential.
Can I mix 5W20 synthetic with regular oil?
The short answer is yes. There is no danger or risk of combustion, and mixing the two types of oil won't harm your engine. However, it's important to note that if you do mix the two, the conventional oil can keep the synthetic from performing to its fullest potential.
Which is thicker, 5w20 or 5w30?
The 5W-20 will remain a little thinner at operating temperature, as indicated by its lower “20” number, while 5W-30 will provide a slightly thicker lubricating film.
What happens if you mix two different oils in your car?
WHAT ABOUT MIXING ENGINE OIL BRANDS? Yes. It won't harm your engine to mix, for example, Quaker State® motor oil with Pennzoil, as long as the oil you use is the weight (or viscosity) recommended in your vehicle owner's manual.
Can you mix 5W-30 with 5W20?
- Mixing 5W20 oil with 5W30 oil is not recommended, as it can cause several problems for your engine.
- 5W20 is thinner and flows more easily than 5W30, especially in cold weather.
- When you mix these two types of oil, you end up with an inconsistent viscosity that is neither optimal for cold nor hot conditions.
Is 5W-20 or 5W-30 better for high mileage?
Typically, a 5W-20 oil provides higher gas mileage than a 5W-30 due to its more effortless flow. However, the 5W-30 oil is still a suitable option where fuel efficiency is concerned. Using 5W-30 simply produces a bit less economy because moving an oil that is less freely flowing through the system consumes more energy.
Is it OK to use the wrong engine oil?
If you realise or suspect you have the wrong oil in your car, you should schedule an oil change with your mechanic immediately. Continuing to drive with the wrong oil in your car can create even more damage to your engine and is a serious safety concern.
What happens if I put 5W20 in my car instead of 5w30?
It's fine. Most ordinary 5W30's will shear down close to a 20W after the first 1000 miles anyway--and any 5W20 will be more shear resistant, by definition. You have nothing to worry about.
