What will happen if I use 5W-30 instead of 5W20?
Choosing the right motor oil for your vehicle is crucial for its performance and longevity. Many car owners often wonder about the implications of using a different oil viscosity than what is recommended by the manufacturer. In this article, we will explore what happens when you use 5W-30 oil instead of the recommended 5W-20, and what it means for your engine.
Understanding Oil Viscosity
Motor oil is classified by its viscosity, which indicates how easily it flows at different temperatures. The numbers in the oil designation (like 5W-20 or 5W-30) represent the oil's viscosity rating. The "W" stands for winter, and the numbers indicate the oil's flow characteristics at low and high temperatures.
Potential Effects of Using 5W-30 Instead of 5W-20
Using 5W-30 oil in place of 5W-20 can have several effects on your vehicle's engine:
- Increased Oil Thickness: 5W-30 oil is thicker than 5W-20 at operating temperatures. This can lead to reduced engine efficiency and increased fuel consumption.
- Impact on Engine Performance: The thicker oil may not flow as easily through the engine, potentially leading to inadequate lubrication, especially during cold starts.
- Possible Engine Wear: If the oil does not circulate properly, it can cause increased wear on engine components over time.
- Warranty Concerns: Using a different viscosity than recommended can void your vehicle's warranty, as manufacturers specify oil types for optimal performance.
When Is It Acceptable to Use 5W-30?
There are scenarios where using 5W-30 might be acceptable:
- High Mileage Vehicles: Older engines may benefit from the thicker oil, as it can help reduce oil consumption and improve sealing.
- Extreme Temperatures: In very hot climates, a thicker oil may provide better protection against thermal breakdown.
Conclusion
While it might be tempting to use 5W-30 oil instead of the recommended 5W-20, it's essential to consider the potential impacts on your engine's performance and longevity. Always refer to your vehicle's owner manual for the manufacturer's recommendations and consult with a professional mechanic if you're unsure about the best oil for your car.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute 5w20 with?
You can easily substitute 5w20 with 0w20, just like M1 says. According to them, you'll still have warranty protection. All the 0 means is it can start easier in the cold then 5w.
What is the difference between 5w20 and 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. When looking at 5W-30 vs 10W-30, they both provide the same viscosity at operating temperature, as indicated by their identical “30” ratings.
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.
Will using the wrong oil hurt my car?
Using the wrong type can wreak havoc on your engine, causing moving parts to wear prematurely due to inadequate lubrication. This can lead to costly repairs, replacement parts, and engine failure.
Is it OK to use thicker oil in 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.
Will it hurt my car if I put 5w30 instead of 5w20?
It won't cause any problems. 5w30 is thicker than 5w20 in operating temperatures, but that doesn't mean there will be less oil flow. Oil pump will still pump the oil through the engine, and if thicker oil causes an increase in oil pressure, the oil pump will just bypass some of the oil back into the sump.
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.
Will thicker oil damage my engine?
- Yes - it does.
- Oil with higher viscosity requires more energy to push it out of the way of the internal mechanisms - which degrades performance and miles-per-gallon.
Is 5W30 better than 5W20?
Using 5W30 instead of 5W20 can lead to higher oil consumption and lower fuel economy. On the other hand, using 5W20 in a car that needs 5W30 might not protect the engine as well at high temperatures, leading to quicker wear and possible damage.
Is it okay to use 5w30 instead of 5w20 on Reddit?
There should be a chart somewhere in your owners manual that shows what viscosity oil to use at what temperatures. That said, running 5w30 in an engine that calls for 5w20 isn't really going to hurt anything, but you might notice a small drop in fuel economy.
