Engine oil is a critical fluid for a vehicle, with its main role being the lubrication of moving parts. Other functions include cleaning, preventing heat buildup, and corrosion of the engine. A thing you should need to know about engine oil is that there are two types.
These are synthetic oil and mineral oil. The former consists of artificially made chemical compounds, while the late comes from natural sources.
Synthetic oils are the most preferred as they function well in extreme temperatures. Talking about synthetic engine oils, we have to touch on the 0w20 vs. 5w20 discussion.
Both are synthetic oils that attract car enthusiasts’ and mechanics’ attention as they try to determine which of the two is the best. If you fall in this group, then lucky you, as we will handle the 0w20 vs. 5w20 debate, focusing on their various attributes.
What Does 0W20 Oil Mean?
0W20 oil refers to a specific viscosity grade of engine oil commonly used in modern vehicles. The “0W” in 0W20 represents the oil’s viscosity rating at low temperatures, while the “20” indicates its viscosity rating at operating temperatures.
The “0W” part signifies that the oil has excellent flow characteristics even in extremely cold conditions. It means that the oil has been engineered to maintain its fluidity and flow smoothly at temperatures as low as -40°C.
This property is crucial for ensuring effective lubrication during cold starts when the engine and oil may be at their coldest.
The “20” in 0W20 denotes the oil’s viscosity rating at normal operating temperatures. Viscosity refers to an oil’s resistance to flow.
A lower number, such as 20, indicates a thinner oil that flows more easily. This viscosity grade is suitable for engines operating under typical operating temperatures.
0W20 oil is often classified as a synthetic oil, which means it is formulated using specially designed additives and base oils.
Synthetic oils offer several benefits, including improved engine protection, enhanced fuel efficiency, and better performance in extreme conditions.
What Does 5W20 Oil Mean?
5W20 oil is a specific viscosity grade of engine oil commonly used in automobiles. The designation “5W” indicates the oil’s viscosity rating at low temperatures, while the “20” represents its viscosity rating at operating temperatures.
The “5W” in 5W20 signifies that the oil has good flow characteristics even in colder conditions. It means that the oil is formulated to maintain its fluidity and provide sufficient lubrication at temperatures as low as -35°C.
This is particularly important during cold starts when the engine and oil are colder and need effective lubrication to prevent wear and damage.
The “20” indicates the oil’s viscosity rating at normal operating temperatures. Viscosity refers to an oil’s resistance to flow. In the case of 5W20, it means that the oil has a relatively lower viscosity, making it thinner and easier to flow.
This viscosity grade is suitable for engines operating under typical operating temperatures.
5W20 oil is commonly used in modern engines due to its ability to provide efficient lubrication, promote fuel economy, and meet the requirements of various vehicle manufacturers.
Viscosity Explained
What Is Viscosity?
Viscosity is a vital property of car oil that indicates its resistance to flow. It measures a fluid’s internal friction, caused by its flow. Oil viscosity does not depend only on its weight. It also depends on the base stock – a blend of hydrocarbon chains.
Oil viscosity changes with temperature, so thicker oil flows more slowly and thins out as it heats up.
Additives affect the viscosity of the oil. For example, adding an anti-foaming additive allows the oil to flow more easily and be thinner, even at high temperatures.
To keep their engines running smoothly, drivers need to choose an oil suitable for the climate they live in. Oil viscosity must be chosen based on the temperature range one can expect.
The numbers and letters in motor oil viscosity grades refer to the oil’s ability to flow at different temperatures.
The “W” stands for “winter,” and the number preceding it indicates the oil’s viscosity (thickness) at low temperatures. The lower the number, the better the oil flows when it’s cold.
The second number represents the oil’s viscosity at higher temperatures. For example, in 0W-20 oil, the “0W” means it has excellent cold-temperature flow properties, while the “20” indicates its viscosity at operating temperatures.
Oil viscosity refers to the resistance of a liquid to flow at a specific temperature. Thin oils pour more easily at low temperatures than thicker oils that have a higher viscosity.
In 1911, the Society of Automotive Engineers or SAE established a numerical code system (SAE J300) for grading oils based on their viscosity characteristics.
Motor oils were originally all mono-grades because oil manufacturers always had to start with thick oil to get the right thickness at operating temperatures.
There are two viscosity grades; single grade and multi-grade.
Single-Grade vs Multi-Grade Oil
For single-grade motor oils, there are 11 viscosity grades in total: 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W, 25W for low-temperature grades, and 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 for high-temperature grades. This type cannot use viscosity modifiers and are often called straight-weight oils.
On the other hand, multi-grade motor oils have special polymers added that allows them to perform in a wide range of temperatures. This type would have the viscosity of the base grade when cold and of the second grade when hot.
For example, an SAE 5W20 oil would be a product that acts like an SAE 5 at cold temperatures (5W for winter) and like an SAE 20 at 100 °C (212 °F).
Viscosity Levels
This viscosity table below from Anton Paar summarizes the different viscosity levels for both low and high-temperature motor oils. The figures in red are recent updates to the SAE J300 system since April 2, 2013 – the total viscosity grades now becoming 14.
| SAE Viscosity Grade[°C] | Min. Viscosity [mm²/s] at 100 °C | Max. Viscosity [mm²/s] at 100 °C | High Shear Rate Viscosity [mPa.s] at 150 °C | Cranking Viscosity [mPa.s] max. at Temp. [°C] | Pumping Viscosity [mPa.s] max. at Temp. [°C] |
| 0W | 3.8 | — | — | 6200 at -35°C | 60 000 at -40°C |
| 5W | 3.8 | — | — | 6600 at -30°C | 60 000 at -35°C |
| 10W | 4.1 | — | — | 7000 at -25°C | 60 000 at -30°C |
| 15W | 5.6 | — | — | 7000 at -20°C | 60 000 at -25°C |
| 20W | 5.6 | — | — | 9500 at -15°C | 60 000 at -20°C |
| 25W | 9.3 | — | — | 13 000 at -10°C | 60 000 at -15°C |
| 8 | 4.0 | <6.1 | 1.7 | ||
| 12 | 5.0 | <7.1 | 2.0 | ||
| 16 | 6.1 | <8.2 | 2.3 | ||
| 20 | 6.9 | <9.3 | 2.6 | — | — |
| 30 | 9.3 | <12.5 | 2.9 | — | — |
| 40 | 12.5 | <16.3 | 3.5 (0W-40, 5W-40 & 10W-40 grades) 3.7 (15W-40, 20W-40, 25W-40 & 40 grades) | — | — |
| 50 | 16.3 | <21.9 | 3.7 | — | — |
| 60 | 21.9 | <26.1 | 3.7 | — | — |
Before you get too overwhelmed with all these numbers, don’t worry as we are not going to go through all motor oil grades. We are only going to discuss the 0W20 and the 5W20 variants.
Which Should You Use?
Your chosen oil grade must fit the climate in your region and be effective at controlling engine wear.
SAE 0W-20 and 5W-20 multi-grade oils are ideal for most climates, but 5W-30 is the best in extreme cold.
The choice of oil weight is more complicated than it may appear at first glance. Your car’s owner manual will recommend an oil viscosity and an oil grade.
If the oil is too viscous, it will increase engine wear by restricting metal-on-metal movement and restricting necessary oil circulation. It will overheat the engine and lead to reduced power and efficiency.
If it is too thin, it won’t lubricate the engine sufficiently. So the car will have reduced power and efficiency. There could also be problems with cold-weather starts. The oil will be too thin to lubricate the engine adequately at low temperatures.
0W-20 Motor Oil
0W-20 is a low-viscosity, fully synthetic motor oil designed for modern, fuel-efficient engines. Its primary advantages include:
- Superior Cold-Start Protection: The “0W” rating means this oil flows exceptionally well in cold temperatures, ensuring rapid lubrication of critical engine components during start-up, even in Calgary’s harsh winters.
- Improved Fuel Economy: The low viscosity of 0W-20 oil reduces friction within the engine, resulting in better fuel efficiency compared to thicker oils.
- Reduced Emissions: Lower friction also translates to lower emissions, making 0W-20 a more environmentally friendly choice.
However, it’s important to note that not all vehicles are compatible with 0W-20 oil, so always consult your owner’s manual for the recommended viscosity grade.
5W-20 Motor Oil
5W-20 is another popular low-viscosity, synthetic motor oil that offers excellent all-around performance. Its key features include:
- Good Cold-Start Protection: While not as exceptional as 0W-20, the “5W” rating still provides adequate cold-temperature flow properties for most driving conditions in Calgary.
- Balanced Performance: 5W-20 oil offers a good balance between fuel economy and engine protection, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of vehicles.
- Compatibility: Many modern vehicles are designed to use 5W-20 oil, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
Types of 0W-20 Oil
The following are some examples of 0w-20 oil:
- Mobil 1 0W-20 Advanced Fuel Economy: This fully synthetic oil is designed to provide excellent fuel economy and engine protection. It uses advanced technology to reduce friction and wear and is suitable for use in gasoline engines.
- Castrol Edge 0W-20 Advanced Full Synthetic: This high-performance oil uses a blend of synthetic base oils and advanced additives to provide maximum engine protection. It is suitable for use in gasoline engines and offers improved fuel economy.
- Valvoline SynPower 0W-20 Full Synthetic: This synthetic oil offers excellent protection against engine wear, deposits, and sludge. It is formulated to provide improved fuel economy and is suitable for use in gasoline engines.
- Pennzoil Platinum 0W-20 Full Synthetic: This advanced oil uses PurePlus technology, which converts natural gas into a high-quality synthetic base oil. It offers excellent wear protection and improved fuel economy and is suitable for use in gasoline engines.
- Royal Purple 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil: This premium synthetic oil offers superior wear protection, improved fuel economy, and reduced engine deposits. It uses a proprietary blend of synthetic base oils and advanced additives and is suitable for use in gasoline engines.
Types of 5W-20 Oil
The following are some examples of 0w-20 oil:
- Mobil 1 5W-20 Advanced Full Synthetic: This fully synthetic oil is designed to provide excellent engine protection and fuel economy. It uses advanced technology to reduce friction and wear and is suitable for use in gasoline engines.
- Pennzoil Platinum High Mileage 5W-20 Full Synthetic: This advanced oil is specifically formulated for high-mileage engines and offers superior wear protection and engine cleanliness. It is suitable for use in gasoline engines.
- Castrol GTX 5W-20 Conventional Motor Oil: This conventional oil is designed to provide reliable engine protection and performance. It is suitable for use in gasoline engines and offers excellent engine cleanliness.
- Valvoline MaxLife 5W-20 Synthetic Blend: This synthetic blend oil is specifically formulated for high-mileage engines and offers superior wear protection and engine cleanliness. It is suitable for use in gasoline engines.
- Royal Purple HMX 5W-20 High Mileage Synthetic Motor Oil: This synthetic oil is designed for high-mileage engines and offers superior wear protection and improved engine cleanliness. It uses advanced additives and synthetic base oils and is suitable for use in gasoline engines.
5W20 vs 0W20 engine oils: Comparison Highlighted in Table
Please note that the specific recommendations for your vehicle can vary, so always refer to your car’s manual or consult with a professional mechanic for the most suitable engine oil choice.
Having said that here’s a comparison table for 5W20 and 0W20 engine oils:
| Characteristic | 5W20 Engine Oil | 0W20 Engine Oil |
| Cold Weather Performance | Offers good cold start protection, but slightly thicker than 0W20. | Provides excellent cold start protection due to its thinner consistency. |
| Operating Temperature Performance | Performs well in normal operating conditions, especially in warmer climates. | Offers good performance in a wide range of temperatures. Suitable for both cold and warm climates. |
| Viscosity at Low Temperatures (0⁰C) | Thicker (SAE 5W) at low temperatures. | Thinner (SAE 0W) at low temperatures. |
| Viscosity at Operating Temperatures (100⁰C) | SAE 20 | SAE 20 |
| Fuel Efficiency | Slightly less fuel-efficient than 0W20 due to its higher viscosity when cold. | Generally offers slightly better fuel efficiency because it’s thinner, reducing internal engine friction. |
| Engine Protection | Provides good engine protection, but it may take a little longer to reach full lubrication during cold starts. | Offers excellent engine protection, especially during cold starts, due to its quick flow and thinner consistency. |
| Common Use Cases | Commonly used in older vehicles and in regions with warmer climates. | Often meant for newer vehicles and in areas with colder climates. |
| Recommended Applications | Most gasoline engines | Gasoline engines in cold climates and turbocharged engines |
| Oil Change Intervals | Manufacturer recommendations, but slightly more frequent compared to 0W20 due to slightly faster degradation. | Manufacturer recommendations but typically meant for longer intervals due to better fuel efficiency and engine protection. |
| Cold Start Protection | Good | Excellent |
| Wear protection | Good | Slightly Less |
5W20 vs. 0W20: What’s the Difference?
The 5W20 and 0W20 engine oils have multi grade viscosities. Unlike single grade viscosity, these types offer fluidity in both cold and seasonal temperatures in the United States.
The SAE, Society of Automotive Engineers, is responsible for assigning grades to engine oils. The ‘W’ in the type name stands for Winter. It means, both the types here are suitable for winter weather.
The numbers before and after the ‘W’ indicate the oil thickness or weight in cold and warm temperatures, respectively. So, the type names, 5W20 and 0W20, hint that one is thicker than the other, and so their viscosities are slightly different.
The 5W20 and 0W20 engine oils are very similar. Nonetheless, we can find slight differences in their Viscosities, versatility, performance, and pricing. Let’s have a look at the differences between 5W20 and 0W20 down here.
#1. Cold and Warm Viscosities.
The 5W20 and 0W20 are multi grade viscosity oils, assigned by the SAE. It means that they can flow well in both cold and moderate warm temperatures. But we can see the difference in their viscosities in cold, by the number before the ‘W’.
Viscosity stands for an oil’s measurement of resistance to flow. In other words, viscosity is the measurement of an oil’s thickness at different temperatures.
The 0W20 is 0W weight engine oil, meaning that it is thinner than its counterpart in cold temperatures. So, it is low viscosity engine oil in cold temperatures.
On the other hand, the 5W20 is 5W weight engine oil, and a bit thicker in viscosity than its counterpart in cold temperatures.
For operating at normal temperatures, both the types are grade 20, according to the SAE. So, the 0W20 and 5W20 engine oil are similar in viscosities at normal temperatures. Though, the latter performs slightly thicker in normal temperatures.
#2. Performance.
The lower the viscosity, the better it flows in cold temperatures. It is because in cold weather, the oil needs to flow smoothly to all the parts of the engine. Lower viscosity helps in this regard.
As the 0W20 is lower in viscosity at cold temperatures than the 5W20, it performs better in extreme cold winters and cold weather.
Hence, if you are living in the North, and driving in below freezing temperatures, 0W20 should be ideal for you. Continue reading this article to know if you can switch to another grade engine oil.
On the other hand, both the types have great fluidity in normal temperatures. They perform well up to 68°F temperature.
However, the 5W20 performs slightly better in normal temperatures than 0W20 engine oil. It is because the former is thicker and the thickness comes in handy to perform well in normal temperatures.
#3. Versatility.
The 5W20 engine oil provides more versatility than its counterpart. The 0W20 engine oil comes in synthetic and semi-synthetic oil bases and additives. So, it is premium quality engine oil.
On the other hand, the 5W20 engine oil comes in synthetic, semi-synthetic, and conventional oil bases and additives. So, it is also premium and provides more versatility.
#4. Costing.
As the 0W20 engine oil only comes in synthetic and semi-synthetic, it is slightly more expensive than the 5W20 engine oil.
Though the price varies from brand to brand. It should be wise if you check out the price of different brands before purchasing.
#5. Fuel Efficiency.
In terms of fuel efficiency, both types are good choices. This is, in fact, a reason why they are best-sellers of engine oils in the cold area.
As a matter of fact, the 0W20 multi grade engine oil should be a little better in terms of fuel efficiency.
It is because 0W20 is thinner and low viscosity engine oil, which makes it smoother to flow through the parts of engine. Again, full synthetic engine oils are better to provide good fuel efficiency.
What Happens When You Use 5W20 Instead of 0W20?
We’ve already cleared a question ‘can you run 5w20 instead of 0w20?’ This time, we’ll share the consequences of using the thicker 5w20 oil as an alternative to 0w20.
- Difficulty during start-up: Since the 5w20 oil is already thicker than 0w20, the thickness increases at cold temperatures. So, this oil can’t flow as easily as 0w20 and it doesn’t provide the same protection as well. It may result in increased wear and tear and you may experience a critical start-up period.
- The risk of engine damage: When you interchange the oil during cold weather, the wrong viscosity may cause engine damage and decreased engine performance.
- Reduced fuel efficiency: Since thicker oil is responsible for increasing engine friction, it will eventually reduce fuel efficiency.
Benefits of Using 0W20
#1. Cold Start Protection.
When it comes to cold weather starts, 0w20 oil offers significant benefits. The “0w” in the oil’s viscosity rating indicates that it has excellent flow characteristics at low temperatures.
This means that even in freezing conditions, the oil can quickly reach the critical engine components, providing lubrication and reducing wear.
With improved cold start protection, your engine is less likely to experience damage due to lack of lubrication during those chilly mornings.
#2. Improved Fuel Efficiency.
Using 0w20 oil can also help improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. The low viscosity of this oil reduces friction within the engine, allowing the parts to move more freely and with less resistance.
As a result, your engine doesn’t have to work as hard to generate power, leading to improved fuel economy. By using 0w20 oil, you can potentially save on fuel costs and reduce your carbon footprint.
#3. Enhanced Engine Performance.
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, 0w20 oil also contributes to enhanced . The oil’s low viscosity allows it to flow quickly and evenly throughout the engine, ensuring optimal lubrication for all moving parts.
This helps reduce friction, heat, and wear, which can lead to improved overall performance. With 0w20 oil, you may experience smoother acceleration, quieter operation, and a longer-lasting engine.
Overall, using 0w20 oil provides several advantages for your vehicle. From better cold start protection to improved fuel efficiency and enhanced , this oil can help keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently.
Benefits of Using 5W20
#1. Wider Range of Temperature Stability.
When it comes to choosing the right motor oil for your vehicle, considering the temperature conditions you typically drive in is crucial.
One of the key benefits of using 5w20 oil is its wider range of temperature stability. This means that it can effectively lubricate your engine in both hot and cold weather conditions.
In colder temperatures, 5w20 oil flows more easily, allowing for quicker lubrication during cold starts. This helps protect your engine from wear and tear that can occur when the oil is not flowing efficiently.
On the other hand, in hotter temperatures, 5w20 oil maintains its viscosity and provides the necessary protection to prevent engine components from overheating.
#2. Cost-Effectiveness.
Another advantage of using 5w20 oil is its cost-effectiveness. This type of oil is commonly available and widely used, making it more affordable compared to some other motor oil options.
Its popularity also means that you can easily find it at various retailers, including auto parts stores, convenience stores, and even online.
Additionally, using 5w20 oil can potentially lead to cost savings in the long run. It is formulated to provide excellent engine protection, which can help extend the life of your engine and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs or premature engine failure.
#3. Availability and Convenience.
Convenience is an important factor to consider when choosing the right motor oil for your vehicle.
With oil, you don’t have to worry about searching high and low for a specific type of oil. It is widely available and compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including many popular car models.
Furthermore, using 5w20 oil eliminates the need for multiple oil options for different seasons. Its versatility allows you to use the same oil year-round, simplifying the oil change process and making it easier to maintain your vehicle’s engine health.
In conclusion, using 5w20 oil offers several benefits, including a wider range of temperature stability, cost-effectiveness, and availability and convenience.
Whether you live in a region with extreme temperature fluctuations or simply want a reliable and affordable motor oil option, 5w20 is a great choice for many vehicles.
When to Use 0W20 vs. 5W20
Below are some considerations when deciding to use either of the two oils:
#1. Geographical Location.
It is crucial to consider where you use the vehicle as both 0W20 and 5W20 motor oils fall within almost the same temperature spectrum.
For example, 0W-20 synthetic oil’s range is between -40°C to 20°C while a 5W20 (5W20 synthetic oil) is from -35°C to 20°C. Knowing these details means two things:
It is better to use 0W20 oil if you live in very cold temperatures, such as Alaska or Maine.
You cannot use either 0W20 or 5W20 in areas where temperatures exceed 20°C/68°F, like Florida.
#2. Your Owner’s Manual recommendation.
Referring to your owner’s manual is quite simple yet often overlooked. Always check your owner’s manual to see the recommended viscosity of the motor oil you need to use.
If both 0W20 and 5W20 variants are on the list, use them alternately without hesitation, depending on weather conditions.
#3. Viscosity.
The smaller the number, the better the motor oil will flow. For example, a 0W20 will be more fluid than a 5W20 at startup temperatures but will perform the same way at standard engine operating temperatures.
Remember, engine oils naturally thicken as they cool down and thin as they are heated.
#4. Quality Testing.
Choose any oil brand with the right viscosity grade that displays the starburst symbol and the API donut. The starburst symbol shows that the oil has passed the tests listed for SL service.
The API donut means that the American Petroleum Institute tested your motor oil and met the current SL service rating.
#5. Manufacturer Requirements.
Customarily, the machine designer would recommend a motor oil with high viscosity and heavy honey if your vehicle is heavily loaded. But if it runs very fast, a lubricant that can get out of the way and back just as quickly is more suitable.
#6. Fuel Economy.
Although 5W20 and 0W20 (0W20 synthetic oil) can be used at 20°C/68°F, 0W20 is thinner than 5W20 with cold engine temperatures, especially during the first few minutes after you start your car.
New cars specify it because it gives the car a better fuel economy than the 5W20. The 0W20 variant also meets the demands of a turbo-diesel engine.
Can I use 5W20 instead of 0W20?
Both 5w20 and 0w20 are synthetic oils made of artificial chemical compounds, and this type of oil is pretty good in extreme temperatures. These two oils are identical in function and components but not the same in performance.
While either oil is meant for cool temperatures, evident from the “W” in their names, their fluid flow resistance while burning is different. To be clearer, 0w20 with zero viscosity will run smoother in cold weather than 5w20 with 5 viscosities – liquid resistance at flow.
So, you can substitute 0w20 with 5w20, but the latter will offer more resistance in its flow. 0w20 is a more preferred fuel option in cold temperatures, but 5w20 is also quite functional. However, your car manual is the ultimate guide in such a case.
The answer will remain the same; whether it is a query, “Can I use 5w20 instead of 0w20 Toyota?” or a debate, “5w20 vs 0w20 honda”, the answer will remain the same.
FAQs.
Q: Can I Substitute 0W20 For 5W20?
You can substitute 0w20 for 5w20, where you will benefit from 0w20’s performance in cool conditions. Switching from 5w20 to 0w20 gives you an advantage in the engine, starting easier in low temperatures.
However, use the 5w20 in place of 0w20 with caution, as it may affect the engine’s performance due to the variance in viscosity in winter conditions.
Q: What Is 0W20 Oil Used For?
0w20 finds extensive use in small to middle-sized vehicles. You will notice many American, European, and Japanese car manufacturers recommending this oil due to its effectiveness, more so if you live in cold areas.
0w20 vs. 5w20 Honda Accord discussions will lead you to the discovery that most small and newer car models use 0w20 instead of 5w20.
Q: Will 0W20 Hurt A 5W30 Engine?
Before using 0w20 in a 5w30 engine, check the car manufacturer’s oil specifications to know if you are doing the right thing.
The 0w20 can be advantageous to the engine in low temperatures, but it won’t help it out in high temperatures. It is recommended that you stick to the oil specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
Q: Is 5W20 Good For Winter?
The 5w20 engine oil has a low viscosity, and it is very thin in cold settings. The thinness allows it to execute duties like curbing friction and heat dissipation to impeccable levels. It is one of the best oils to use if you reside in cold areas.
Q: How Long Does 0W20 Oil Last?
0w20 is synthetic oil, which has a reputation for lengthy service. If you use 0w20, you will require an oil change at 8000 to 10000 miles.
Some vehicles may stretch the service life to 15,000 miles. A regular oil change will prevent engine problems such as worn-out parts and poor fuel economy.
Q: Is 0W20 Oil Too Thin?
0w20 is thin oil, or in other words, less viscous. This synthetic oil is thinner than most oils, a feature that makes it ideal for harsh winter conditions as it can still flow freely. If you use this oil in winter, you will realize that starting the vehicle is effortless.
Q: Which Is Better, 0W20 or 5W30?
0w20 vs. 5w30, which is the best? Both oils are excellent performers, though it depends on external conditions.
0w20 has a low viscosity, which makes it ideal for winter and cold surroundings. 5w30 also works well in cold conditions, but not to the levels of 0w20. However, it works fine in moderate to high temperatures, an advantage over 0w20.
Q: Can I Switch From 5W30 To 0W20?
Switching from 5w30 to 0w20 is a move many people make to benefit from the latter oil’s low-viscosity nature. While you can switch the oils, be keen on the manufacturer’s instructions to be on the safe side and prevent hitches on your vehicle.
Final Word
Ow20 and 5w20 are some of the most popular synthetic multi-grade engine oils. In this article, we take an in-depth look at these two oils to have a better grasp of their specifications and functioning.
One thing you may realize is that both of them are high-quality oils that work better in cold conditions. 0w20 appears to be better in such conditions due to its low viscosity.
It is suitable for smaller cars, while 5w20 works well with light petrol and diesel engine vehicles like vans and SUVs.
Pick the best among the two, keeping in mind the manufacturer’s recommendations. Check on the API grade guide for an idea of oil grading.