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Choose an oil with the vehicle manufacture’s recommended viscosity rating (check your owner’s manual). Viscosity is an oil’s ability to flow at different temperatures. The two most common viscosities (a.k.a. weights) are SAE 5W-30 and SAE 10W-30. The lower the number, the thinner the oil.
Does it matter what grade of oil I put in my car?
As long as the grade and ACEA specification is correct, you should be fine. However, David Wright of the United Kingdom Lubricant Association recommends choosing reputable manufacturers. Some firms will blend more advanced, expensive oils that exceed the specifications on the packaging.
Can we use 5W40 instead of 5W-30?
In practice, this means that each oil is just as viscous at lower temperatures and will remain viscous at -30°C, however 5w40 oil outperforms 5w30 oils at higher temperatures, being effective up to ambient temperatures of 50°C, as opposed to 30°C.
Can I put 10w30 instead of 5W-30?
Most oils will mix perfectly, provided they have a similar synthetic. Therefore, there is no problem in mixing 10w30 and 5w30 since one will be topping up. Mixing the viscosity of oils will not have any effect on the engine. 5w30 and 10w30 engine oils have close viscosity, and thus there is no harm in mixing them.
Does type of oil really matter?
The most important thing is to use oil that’s the right thickness, or viscosity, for your car’s engine. Oil that’s too thick or thin won’t provide the necessary protection for your engine, which can result in costly damage. The standards required for your car will also be listed in your owner’s manual.
What does 5w30 mean?
5w30 motor oil has a winter viscosity grade of five, meaning it’s less viscous (less thick) at very low temperatures compared to, say, 10w30. It has a hot viscosity grade of 30, which means it is less viscous at high temperatures than an oil such as 5w50.
Is 5W-40 good for summer?
5w30 oil is designed to operate at temperatures as low as -25°C, but is also a great choice for warmer climates that reach up to 25°C. 5W40 is a motor oil that penetrates to the active mechanisms faster, and provides excellent lubrication on start up.
Is 5W-40 better for high mileage cars?
According to Mobil Oil’s website, a heavy grade 5W-40 oil is best for use in vehicles that hold a diesel motor with high mileage. The use of heavy grade 5W-40 oils help to extend the life of diesel engines by protecting the engine against leaks, Z.
What is 5W40 oil used for?
5w40 is a motor oil that helps the engine to work smoothly and the moving parts from overheat because of friction. 5w40 transfer heat from the combustion cycle and assist to keep the engine clean by burning by-product and protects the engine from oxidation.
Is 10w30 better for high mileage?
10W-30 motor oil makes for a decent high-mileage oil. It gives a better fuel economy while reducing the oil consumption for older engines. Older engines with more than 75,000 miles on them require a thicker oil that will properly lubricate their critical engine parts and prevent oil leaks, sludge, and deposits.
What happens if you use 10W40 instead of 5w30?
If you use 10-w-40 instead of 5-w-30 specified by the manufacturer then the viscosity of 10-w-40 used by you will be higher and oil thicker than what is specified during winters. Similarly the oil viscosity will be higher and oil thicker than specified during summers.
Does 10w30 hurt 5w20 engine?
Regarding 10w30 and 5w20, the effect of combining these oils will be determined by your vehicle. Which of them was your vehicle made to operate with? Notwithstanding the recommendations of the car manufacturer, mixing 10w30 and 5w20 will not cause any sort of harm to the engine.
Does a car run better with new oil?
Regular oil changes improve your car’s gas mileage. As the fresh oil moves through the engine, the lubrication of the metal parts increases your engine’s performance and helps it run more efficiently with less work so it doesn’t eat up as much gas.
What happens if you put the wrong oil in your car?
Using the wrong fluid can cause poor lubrication, overheating, and possibly transmission failure. A mechanic might not be able to reverse the damage, even by flushing the transmission. Mistakenly adding motor oil or brake fluid can also destroy your transmission.
Is Full synthetic oil Better?
Yes, synthetic oil is better for your engine than conventional oil. Synthetics use higher quality base oils as compared to the less-refined base oils used in conventional oils which makes conventional oils: Less chemically stable. Oxidize and acidify more easily.
Can I use 5W 20 instead of 5W-30?
5W-20 oil, being the lower viscosity oil (thinner oil) than 5W-30, might help boost your fuel economy. And although you may not notice a vast difference, it does add up over time. However, remember that you should always use the motor oil recommended for your car by your engine manufacturer or mechanic.
Can I use 5W-30 instead of SAE 5W-30?
Both oils have a “30” hot viscosity rating. This means SAE 5W-30 oil has the same flow rate as SAE 30 at operating temp. So, technically it’s fine to use SAE 5W-30 oil in place of SAE 30.
Is 5W-30 good for hot weather?
5w30 motor oils are highly versatile and commonly used in a wide variety of engines. They are effective in temperatures as low as -30ºC. The ideal motor oil for your car is one that can withstand the hottest temperatures in your region while still being able to flow when the weather is at its coldest.
