When it comes to changing and topping off the motor oil, consumers are regularly confused about what viscosity to use. With so many options on the market, it’s tough figuring out what’s best to use. For example, can you put 10w30 in a 5w30 engine?
In this guide, I examine the main differences between the two motor oils and discuss how to read the motor oil ratings. I also look at if it’s okay to mix the two viscosities and describe what’s going to happen if you switch out the type.
Understanding Oil Viscosity and Its Importance
To understand why using 5W30 instead of 10W30 can be a problem, we need to delve into the world of oil viscosity. Viscosity refers to an oil’s thickness or resistance to flow. The higher the viscosity, the thicker the oil.
The W in Oil Viscosities: Winter
The “W” in oil viscosities like 5W30 and 10W30 stands for “Winter.” This rating tells us how well the oil flows in cold temperatures. The lower the number before the “W,” the thinner the oil and the better it flows in cold weather.
5W vs 10W: Flowing in the Cold
- 5W: This oil will flow more easily at cold temperatures compared to 10W. It’s designed for regions with colder climates.
- 10W: This oil is thicker at low temperatures and will take a little longer to flow freely when the engine is cold. It’s often a good choice for milder climates.
The Second Number: High-Temperature Performance
The second number in the viscosity rating (30 in both 5W30 and 10W30) indicates the oil’s thickness at operating temperature. This number is critical for the oil’s ability to lubricate and protect engine parts when the engine is hot.
30: A Mid-Range Viscosity for Lawn Mowers
A 30 weight oil is a common choice for lawn mowers because it offers a balance between protecting engine components under high loads and flowing smoothly at operating temperatures.
10W 30 and 5W10 Engine Oils Comparison Table
The choice between 10W30 and 5W30 engine oils may depend on factors such as the climate in your area, the age of your engine, manufacturer recommendations, and your specific driving habits.
Here’s a comparison table between them to determine the recommended oil viscosity for your engine.
| Features | 10W30 Engine Oil | 5W30 Engine Oils |
| Viscosity at low temperatures | Higher viscosity flows less easily at cold temperatures. | Lower viscosity flows more easily at cold temperatures. |
| Viscosity at high temperatures | Thicker at high temperatures compared to 5W30 | Slightly thinner at high temperatures compared to 10W30 |
| Cold-start performance | Takes a bit longer to flow in extremely cold temperatures. | Flows more readily in very cold conditions, aiding faster starts. |
| Engine protection in high temperatures | Provides good protection at high temperatures but is slightly thicker. | Slightly lower viscosity may offer slightly better fuel economy. |
| Common Use | Used in warmer climates and in older engines. | Suitable for most temperatures and modern engines. |
| Fuel Economy | Slightly less fuel-efficient compared to 5W-30 due to higher viscosity. | Slightly better fuel efficiency due to lower viscosity. |
| Wear Protection | Standard | Slightly Better |
| Price | Affordable | Slightly Bigger |
What is 10w30?
10w30 is a multi-grade engine oil ideal for heavy-load engines because of its ability to withstand hot temperatures for a long time without compromising the performance of the engine.
This engine oil has a viscosity grade of 10 in low temperatures and 30 in high temperatures. This engine oil has a low viscosity at low temperatures, which means that it is thin when the temperatures are low.
10w30 Major Specifications
Some of the things you need to look for in the 10w30 motor oils are ACEA, API SN rating, and its grade of viscosity. This motor oil meets all the requirements of the API SN. API SN is an engine category introduced by the American Petroleum Institute.
It states that the engine should be able to protect the piston of the engine from any deposits which could be caused by combustion.
The oil has better sludge control. This means that this motor oil does not form any undesirable sludge or gels at high temperatures. 10w30 motor oil is also compatible with after-treatment and seal.
10w30 motor oil should have an ACEA A3/B4 or A3/B3 rating, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association. The association is responsible for assigning oil sequences for various specifications of engine oils.
Benefits of 10w30
10w30 has different unique features and benefits. This engine oil forms a continuous layer over all the parts of the engine so as to reduce friction between them. They also reduce the wear and tear of the engine during the stop/start operation while keeping the engine cool.
10w30 protects parts of the engine from rust. This oil will increase the life of your engine. It gives the user noiseless and smooth gear and clutch operations. This engine oil will maintain its viscosity even under high temperatures.
It is suitable for engines using advanced fuels such as biofuel and biodiesel. 10w30 can be used in cold weather, but it is more suited for hot weather use.
What is 5w30?
5w30 is a multi-grade viscosity used in automobiles. This engine oil has a viscosity grade of 5 at low temperatures, and 30 is the viscosity grade of the oil at high temperatures.
5w30 Major Specifications
5w30 meets all the requirements of API SN and an ACEA, which differs depending on the oil brand. It was also approved 5w30 by MB. MB refers to Mercedes Benz’s specifications that allocate a specific grade to the motor oil.
5w30 MB grade will depend on the brand of oil you use. It also contains Volkswagen (VW) approval, Porsche oil specifications, and Ford oil specifications.
Benefits of 5w30
5w30 has different features, which makes the oil outstanding among other motor oils. Just like 10w30, this engine oil forms a continuous layer over the engine parts, reducing friction between them.
It also reduces the wear and tear of the engine and protects engine parts from rusting. It also increases the life of your car engine and has superior thermal stability. This means that their properties remain the same, even when the temperature varies.
This motor oil is designed in a way that minimizes the consumption of oil. This is because only a small amount of engine oil is needed to lubricate the engine.
5w30 engine oil is suitable for automotive gasoline engines, light-duty petrol engines, and light-duty diesel engines. The oil gives a food flow in low temperatures, and thus it is the appropriate choice for cold climates.
What is the Difference Between 10w30 vs. 5w30?
Both 5w30 and 10w30 engine oils are the same, but their difference is brought about by their viscosity.
Both of the motor oils are multi-grade, meaning that they work well in both high and low temperatures. Let us now discuss things that make the two engine oils different:
#1. Viscosity.
The Society of Automotive Engineers determines the viscosity ratings of motor oil. 10w30 and 5w30 have different viscosity ratings.
Considering that the W in the rating stands for winter, you can see that 5w30 is going to have a lower viscosity rating than the 10w30. It is a thinner oil when operating at lower temperatures.
However, both of these oils feature the same viscosity rating in warmer temperatures and conditions. With that said, neither of these is going to make a big difference under normal conditions. You shouldn’t see any significant issues when using them interchangeably.
#2. Performance.
Because of the viscosity rating, you can anticipate the engine performance with either. Both 5w30 and 10w30 feature a similar SAE rating, proving that they will perform equally once the engine reaches normal operating temperatures.
However, 10w30 is going to thicken up more when used in colder weather. For this reason, 5w30 is going to be more suitable in some colder climates, although there’s not much difference in most situations.
#3. Lubrication.
The 5w30 is going to provide enough lubrication for most passenger vehicles. There’s no reason to use a thicker oil in most situations.
However, 10w30 is thicker before the engine reaches normal temperatures. For this reason, it might provide better lubrication for commercial vehicles or anything with a heavy-duty engine.
#4. Ideal Environment.
Where you live and the conditions in which you drive your car have a profound effect on what oil you need to use. Both 5w30 and 10w30 are considered multi-grade oil.
If you live in a region with sub-zero temperatures, you want to use 5w30. It’s going to perform better in the winter than 10w30, although both operate the same once the engine is warmed up.
On the flip side, 10w30 flows the best when temperatures reach triple digits in the southern states.
Compatibility of 10W30 and 5W30
#1. Manufacturer Recommendations.
When it comes to choosing between 10W30 and 5W30 motor oils, it is important to consider the recommendations provided by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
They have extensive knowledge of your engine’s specifications and requirements, and their recommendations are based on extensive testing and research. Following their guidelines ensures optimal performance and longevity of your engine.
#2. Effects on Engine Performance.
The choice between 10W30 and 5W30 can have an impact on your engine’s performance. Both motor oils have different viscosity ratings, which directly affect how well the oil flows and lubricates the engine.
10W30 is thicker at higher temperatures compared to 5W30, which means it provides better protection under extreme heat conditions.
On the other hand, 5W30 is thinner at lower temperatures, allowing for easier cold starts and better protection during cold weather.
#3. Potential Damage to Engine Components.
Using the wrong motor oil viscosity can potentially lead to damage to engine components. If you use 10W30 in an engine that requires 5W30, the oil may not flow properly during cold starts, leading to increased wear on critical engine parts.
Similarly, using 5W30 in an engine that requires 10W30 can result in inadequate lubrication and potential damage under high-temperature conditions. It is crucial to choose the right motor oil viscosity to avoid costly repairs and premature engine failure.
Is It Okay to Mix 10w30 and 5w30 Motor Oil?
In general, it’s considered safe to use 10w30 and 5w30 interchangeably as long as you follow the manufacturer’s oil specifications.
There are some minor differences, but nothing that’s going to cause a major problem in most vehicles. However, it’s still best to follow specification recommendations whenever possible.
What do you do if you are topping off the oil and you only have the other one available? Should you put the two together, or would it be best to drain the old oil out first?
Honestly, there’s nothing stopping you from putting a little of the other oil in with what’s already in there.
In most situations, it’s fine to mix oils as long as they both match the specifications of what’s recommended by the car manufacturer. For this reason, it’s best to read your owner’s manual before proceeding.
What’s more important is that there’s enough oil in the system. You don’t want to leave the engine low because you don’t have the precise formula on hand. Oil levels should always fall between the Empty and Full markings on the dipstick. If not, go ahead and top it off.
How to Read Motor Oil Ratings
Let’s dive deeper into how to read the oil ratings set by the SAE. For starters, you want to look at the number that occurs before the W. I’ve already covered that the W stands for winter.
The number before the W shows how well the oil flows when used in lower temperatures. If you live in a cold-weather climate, both the 5W and 10W oil are going to be a good option for you. However, the 5w oil will flow slightly better at first if temperatures are cold.
10w30 is recommended as long as the minimum outside temperature is above 0°F. If your area hits lower temperatures during the winter months, you’ll want to swap it out for 5w30.
Now, let’s deal with the number that comes after the W. This figure reveals the thickness of the oil at normal operating temperatures. In both of these cases, you see that the oil will perform the same once the engine is warmed up.
There are other motor oil options that provide different operating viscosities, but you don’t want to use these if they aren’t recommended for your vehicle.
Choosing the Right Oil for Your Vehicle
Selecting the appropriate motor oil depends on several factors, including your vehicle’s manufacturer recommendations, climate, and driving conditions. Consider the following guidelines:
Follow Manufacturer Recommendations
Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended motor oil viscosity grade. The manufacturer knows the engine’s specifications and the oil best suited for its optimal performance.
Climate Considerations
If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, such as very cold winters or scorching summers, 5w30 might be a preferable choice.
It provides better cold-start protection and adapts well to temperature fluctuations. If you reside in a consistently warm climate, 10w30 can handle the higher operating temperatures effectively.
Driving Conditions
Consider your typical driving conditions. If you frequently tow heavy loads, drive in stop-and-go traffic, or subject your engine to intense heat, 10w30 may be more suitable due to its higher viscosity at high temperatures.
It provides better protection under these demanding conditions. For standard daily driving without extreme loads or temperature variations, 5w30 should suffice.
Seek Professional Advice
If you’re unsure about the best motor oil choice for your vehicle, consult with a trusted mechanic or contact the vehicle manufacturer’s customer service. They can provide expert guidance based on your specific vehicle model and usage patterns.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Using 5w30 Oil?
Despite the numerous advantages, 5w30 oil also has its disadvantages. Let’s delve into both sides of this discussion and explore the benefits and drawbacks of using 5w30 oil.
Pros
- The 5w30 motor oil is specially formulated to substantially reduce the amount of engine oil needed for lubrication. This revolutionary design provides a long-lasting and reliable performance with less consumption than ever before.
- 5W30 oil offers superior lubrication at low temperatures due to its impressive viscosity; this makes it extremely simple for your engine to start up even in frigid weather.
- Not only is 5W30 oil more fuel-efficient, but this lubricant also thins out faster and flows quicker.
- It can maintain optimal performance in a wide range of temperatures.
- It also helps to prevent sludge buildup and other deposits, keeping your engine clean inside and out!
Cons
- A possible downside of using 5W–30 is its NOACK (evaporation tendencies at high temperatures), which could prove to be an issue for certain applications.
- 5W30 engine oil has a higher flow rate, it’s more likely to leak in old engines not designed for low-viscosity oils.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Using 10w30 Oil?
10w30 oil is undoubtedly advantageous, yet there are a few downsides to be aware of. To ensure you make an informed decision on whether or not 10w30 oil is right for your vehicle, we must analyze the positive and negative aspects associated with this particular type of motor oil.
Pros
- Employing 10w30 oil in your engine will help to maximize its performance, as it reduces friction and wear.
- Utilizing 10w30 oil can augment your vehicle’s fuel economy by as much as 2%, making every mile count.
- 10W30 is superior at withstanding high temperatures, and its supreme protection from friction makes it an ideal choice for preventing engine components from damage.
- The NOACK volatility is remarkably low with this product.
- 10w30 oil helps guard your engine against sludge and gels while running at high temperatures.
Cons
- 10W30 oil is more viscous than 5W30 oil at lower temperatures and thus makes starting your engine a bit more difficult.
- The thicker viscosity of 10w30 oil may be responsible for increased engine noise when used in comparison to 5W30.
Circumstances Where Using 10W30 is Acceptable
#1. Extreme Heat Conditions.
Are you living in an area with scorching hot temperatures? Then using 10W30 might be the right choice for you. This oil is specifically formulated to perform well under high temperatures, providing your engine with the necessary lubrication and protection it needs.
With its higher viscosity, 10W30 oil maintains its thickness and stability even in extreme heat, ensuring that your engine stays cool and runs smoothly.
#2. Older Engines with High Mileage.
If you have an older vehicle with a high , 10W30 oil can be a suitable option. As engines age, they naturally experience increased wear and tear.
The thicker consistency of 10W30 oil helps to compensate for the wear in older engines, providing better lubrication and reducing the risk of friction-related damage. This can help extend the life of your engine and keep it running smoothly for longer.
#3. Limited Availability of 5W30.
Sometimes, you may find yourself in a situation where 5W30 oil is not readily available. In such cases, using 10W30 oil can be a viable alternative.
While it may not offer the same level of cold weather performance as 5W30, it still provides adequate lubrication and protection for your engine in a wide range of temperatures.
Just be sure to check your vehicle’s manufacturer recommendations and consult with a professional if you have any concerns.
In summary, there are certain circumstances where using 10W30 oil is acceptable. If you live in an area with extreme heat conditions, have an older engine with high , or are faced with limited availability of 5W30 oil, 10W30 can be a suitable choice.
However, always consider your vehicle’s specific requirements and consult your manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
FAQs.
Q: Can I Use 10w30 Instead Of 5w30?
It is always good to use the weight of motor oil as per the recommendation of the car’s manufacturer; using the right oil will provide you with maximum fuel economy and the best protection.
Using oil with high viscosity can result in increased drag and excessive oil temperatures since thick oil will not transfer heat better than thin oils.
On the other hand, using oil with low viscosity than required for your vehicle will make the oil fly off the internal parts when the vehicle is in motion. This will eventually lead to metal-to-metal contact, causing the wearing out of the engine components.
Q: Can I Mix 10w30 and 5w30?
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.
Q: Is 10w30 thicker than 5w30?
10w30 is thicker than 5w30 because it has a higher viscosity in low temperatures. The engine oil will flow slower than 5w30 during the cold season.
Thicker or higher-viscosity metal oil has a better seal compared to low-viscosity oil. Thicker oil offers better lubrication of motor and engine parts.
Q: Should I Use Thicker Oil In An Older Engine?
Yes, it will be prudent to use thick engine oil like 10w30 on older engines and motors. Thick engine oil will improve the oil pressure of older engines. This is because when the engine gets old, its clearances extend, thus demanding less liquid oil for better protection.
Q: Which is better, 5w30 or 10w30?
Both 10w30 and 5w 30 engine oils are superb. For the best performance, it is crucial to understand how each of them works in a given ambiance. 5wso is ideal for any season and offers maximum protection in both the summer and winter seasons.
This oil also provides the user with a decent level of fuel economy since it produces a minimal drag on bearings and moving components of the motor. 10w30 offers enhanced sealing capabilities for old motors since it is thicker.
Final Words
Engine oil is used to lubricate engines so as to reduce friction between the engine parts, which increases the lifetime of the engine. Engine oils are more characterized by viscosity. Both 10w30 and 5w30 are thicker and suitable for heavy-duty and older engines.
With this information, you have the answer to Can I use 10w30 instead of 5w30? Before you choose the right engine oil, consider the external temperature, effect on components, and fuel economy.
Check your vehicle manual and see what oil the manufacturer has recommended for you.