Can 5w30 be replaced with 10w40?
2 Answers
If it's a new car using 5w30 engine oil, it's not recommended to switch to 10w40. For vehicles that have been in use for a longer period, switching to 10w40 oil is acceptable as it allows better oil flow within the engine, enhancing engine performance. Below are specific details about 5W-30 engine oil: 1. 5: The number 5 indicates resistance to external low temperatures down to -30 degrees Celsius. A smaller number means the oil can be used in lower environmental temperatures and has better fluidity in cold conditions, indicating a lower applicable minimum temperature. 2. 30: The number 30 represents the kinematic viscosity standard at 100 degrees Celsius, indicating the oil's high-temperature resistance. A higher number means better protective performance of the oil at high temperatures. 3. W: W stands for winter, indicating the oil's performance in cold conditions.
As someone who regularly maintains my car, I often get asked about oil viscosity. While both 5w30 and 10w40 are engine oils, they differ significantly. The former flows better during cold starts in winter, quickly lubricating the engine, while the latter is thicker at high temperatures, offering stronger protection. However, they shouldn’t be mixed arbitrarily. If your car’s manual specifies 5w30 and you switch to 10w40, it might seem fine in the short term, such as during hot summers, but long-term use can lead to oil pressure issues, cold start difficulties, increased fuel consumption, and even accelerated engine wear in severe cases. New cars, in particular, require extra caution, as their precision components need specific viscosity to maintain optimal performance. I recommend first checking the recommended viscosity in your vehicle’s manual or consulting a professional technician for a temporary substitute in emergencies. Cutting corners could result in repair costs several times higher than the price of new oil.
