Can you mix 10w30 instead of 5w30?
The short answer is that it is generally not recommended to mix different motor oil viscosities, such as 10w30 and 5w30. While it may be possible in some cases, it is best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific oil type and viscosity grade specified for your vehicle.
Understanding Motor Oil Viscosity
Motor oil viscosity is a measure of the oil's resistance to flow, and it is typically expressed using a two-number designation, such as 5w30 or 10w30. The first number (5 or 10) indicates the oil's viscosity at cold temperatures, while the second number (30) indicates the oil's viscosity at high temperatures.
The viscosity of the oil is important because it affects the engine's lubrication and performance. Using the wrong viscosity can lead to increased wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and even engine damage.
Mixing 10w30 and 5w30 Motor Oil
- Potential Risks: Mixing different viscosity motor oils can result in the oil not meeting the manufacturer's specifications, which could lead to increased wear and tear on engine components.
- Compatibility Concerns: The additives and base oils in different motor oil brands and formulations may not be compatible, which could cause the oil to break down more quickly or not provide the necessary lubrication.
- Warranty Implications: Using a motor oil that does not meet the manufacturer's recommendations may void the vehicle's warranty, as the manufacturer cannot guarantee the oil will provide the necessary protection.
In general, it is best to stick to the motor oil type and viscosity grade recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. If you need to top up your oil between changes, it is recommended to use the same oil type and viscosity as what is already in the engine.
Conclusion
While it may be possible to mix 10w30 and 5w30 motor oils in some cases, it is not recommended. Doing so could lead to increased wear and tear on engine components, compatibility issues with the oil additives, and potential warranty implications. For the best engine performance and protection, it is always best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific motor oil type and viscosity grade.
Is it OK to mix old and new engine oil?
Adding new oil to old is fine for a while, but there are still wear metals and acids in the old. You are diluting them, but not eliminating them, so a full oil change eventually is needed.
Should I use thicker oil in a high mileage engine?
Using a thicker oil or one with a higher viscosity may also be helpful once your car reaches 100,000 miles. Or you can opt for oil additives that help stop leaks.
Is there a big difference between 5W30 and 10W30?
5w30 and 10w30 are basically the same at 200f, though 10w30 has a slight edge on thickness/film strength. 10w30 is also technically more durable, since the extra additives that 5w30 has to remain thinner at low temperatures don't get degraded/used up as fast.
What happens if you mix two different engine oils?
Additive Compatibility: Different engine oils contain various additives (detergents, anti-wear agents, etc.) that can enhance performance. Mixing oils can dilute these additives or cause chemical reactions that reduce their effectiveness, potentially leading to increased wear or deposits in the engine.
What happens if I mix 10W-30 with 5W-30?
If your car requires 10w-30 oil, mixing it with 5w-30 oil may make it too thin when hot, which can reduce engine lubrication and protection. So it is advisable to use the same type and grade of oil that your car requires, and not to mix different oils unless necessary.
Is it okay to mix oil weights?
Doesn't matter if the oils are different colors. And it doesn't matter if it's a conventional oil being poured into a synthetic. They will all mix. In fact they have to as per oil industry standards.
Why you shouldn't mix engine oil?
Even though you can mix the two, most mechanics will not recommend that you do it regularly. The additives in the different types of products may interact, or the mix of two different oils may cause the mixture to become less stable, and you might lose the benefit of the synthetic.
Is 5w30 or 10w30 better for high mileage?
Using a Higher Oil Viscosity in High-Mileage Cars
An engine's life began to deteriorate rather rapidly around 100,000 miles, and so to increase the oil pressure, high-mileage car owners would use a higher oil viscosity such as 10w40 or 20w50.
Is it bad to put 10W 30 in a 5W 20?
While using it temporarily in a pinch likely won't cause your engine lasting harm, remember that the engineers who built your engine did so with a specific viscosity oil in mind, meaning it's best to stick with it. Some automakers do recommend different viscosities of oil depending on weather conditions.
Can I replace SAE-30 with 10W30?
The general consensus is that 10w30 is an acceptable replacement for an SAE30 oil.
