Choosing the right motor oil for your car is key to keeping your engine running smoothly and extending its life. Among the most common types of motor oil are 5W30 and 5W20. While they may seem similar, there are important differences that can affect your engine’s performance and efficiency. This blog explains these differences in simple terms, helping you decide whether 5W30 or 5W20 is better for your vehicle, considering aspects like gas mileage, engine parts, and oil viscosity.
What Do Oil Numbers Mean?
The numbers in motor oil names tell us about the oil’s thickness (viscosity) and how it behaves in cold and hot temperatures. The first number (before the ‘W’, which stands for Winter) shows the oil’s viscosity at cold temperatures—the lower the number, the thinner the oil. The second number shows the oil’s thickness at high temperatures—the higher the number, the thicker the oil. Thinner oils like 5W20 oil will flow better at cold temperatures, making them ideal for cold starts.
Differences Between 5W30 and 5W20
Thickness at High Temperatures: 5W30 is a thicker oil when the engine is hot, providing better protection for engine parts during heavy use. Conversely, 5W20 is thinner at high temperatures, which might improve fuel efficiency and make starting the car easier in cold weather.
Fuel Efficiency: Since 5W20 is thinner, it creates less resistance inside the engine, which can improve gas mileage. This is why many newer cars, especially those made in America and Japan, recommend using 5W20.
Engine Protection: 5W30’s thicker nature at higher temperatures makes it better for older engines or engines used in tough conditions. It helps keep the car engine parts well-lubricated and reduces wear over time.
Suitability for Weather: The choice might also depend on where you live. In colder places, 5W20 is good because it flows better at lower temperatures. In warmer climates, 5W30 might be the better choice because of its extra thickness at high temperatures.
Can You Switch Between 5W30 and 5W20?
It’s important to use the type of oil that the manufacturer recommends for your car. 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.
