Is 5w20 better than 5w30 in hot weather?
In hot weather, 5w20 motor oil is generally considered a better choice than 5w30. The lower viscosity of 5w20 oil allows it to flow more easily at high temperatures, providing better lubrication and protection for your engine.
Understanding Motor Oil Viscosity
Motor oil viscosity is measured using the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) viscosity grading system. The first number, such as 5 or 10, represents the oil's viscosity at low temperatures, while the second number, such as 20 or 30, represents the oil's viscosity at high temperatures.
A lower viscosity number, like 5w, indicates the oil flows more easily at low temperatures compared to a higher viscosity number like 10w. This is important in cold weather, as the oil needs to circulate quickly to protect the engine during startup.
The second number, such as 20 or 30, represents the oil's viscosity at high temperatures. A lower number, like 20, means the oil will flow more easily at high temperatures, providing better lubrication and protection for the engine.
Why 5w20 is Better in Hot Weather
In hot weather, the engine and oil get hotter, causing the oil to thin out and flow more easily. 5w20 oil, with its lower high-temperature viscosity, will maintain better lubrication and protection for the engine compared to 5w30 oil.
- 5w20 oil has a lower viscosity at high temperatures, allowing it to flow more freely and reach all the critical engine components.
- The thinner 5w20 oil can better penetrate small clearances and provide a protective film on moving parts.
- 5w30 oil may become too thin at high temperatures, potentially leading to increased wear and reduced engine protection.
In general, 5w20 is the recommended oil for most modern engines, especially in hot climates, as it provides better protection and performance in high-temperature conditions.
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.
What oil is best for high heat?
High Heat: Oils for Frying, Stir-Frying, and Broiling
- Avocado oil (refined) 480-520°F.
- Safflower oil 450-500°F.
- Canola oil 400-475°F.
- Soybean oil 450°F.
- Sunflower oil (refined) 450°F.
- Peanut oil (refined) 450°F.
- Coconut oil (refined) 400-450°F.
Is 5w20 or 5W30 better for summer?
What all this means to me is: In any outside air temps, 5W20 will give you better gas mileage and provide ample protection for your engine. In outside air temps over 0°F, 5W30 or 10W30 will provide better protection at extreme operating temperatures (hard driving).
What temperature is 5w20 oil good for?
PETROFLO 0w-20 and 5w-20 SYNTHETIC MOTOR OIL protects engines up to 204°C (400° F.).
Will it hurt my car if I use 10w30 instead of 5W30?
A common question is whether it's safe to use 10W-30 instead of 5W-30 oil, for example. While it's best to use what's recommended in your owner's manual, inadvertently using a viscosity one grade higher or lower than what's recommended generally poses no long-term harm.
Can you mix 5W30 and 5w20?
In nearly all cases, you can use whatever motor oil is available as long as it's clean and from a sealed container. Mixing oils is virtually always better than running on low oil.
What engine oil is best for a hot climate?
Oils with a viscosity of 10W-30 or 10W-40 are often recommended for hot climates, as they maintain their protective qualities at higher temperatures. Synthetic Oils: Full synthetic oils tend to perform better in extreme temperatures compared to conventional oils.
What happens if I use 5w20 instead of 5W30?
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 mix 5W20 with 5W30?
In nearly all cases, you can use whatever motor oil is available as long as it's clean and from a sealed container. Mixing oils is virtually always better than running on low oil.
Is it better to run thicker oil in hot weather?
Helping Your Vehicle Keep Its Cool
You need an oil that will perform like it should, keeping your hardworking engine clean, cool, and well lubricated. That means choosing a thicker motor oil for warmers temperatures. Oil thins as it warms up and if it gets too thin, it won't protect your engine as well as it should.
