Does Using 10w40 Engine Oil Affect New Cars?
3 Answers
As long as it meets the viscosity specified by the original oil, 10w40 engine oil can be used for new cars. Meaning of engine oil specifications: Taking 15W-40 and 5W-40 as examples: W stands for winter. The smaller the number before W, the better the low-temperature fluidity of the oil, indicating it can be used in lower environmental temperatures and provides better engine protection during cold starts. 5W represents resistance to external low temperatures of -30°C, while 20W is resistant to -15°C. The number after W represents the kinematic viscosity of the oil at 100°C, with higher values indicating higher viscosity. Difference between mineral oil and synthetic oil: Synthetic oil has a wider temperature range, longer service life, and higher cost. For the same oil film requirements, synthetic oil can achieve the goal with lower viscosity, whereas mineral oil requires higher viscosity compared to synthetic oil to meet the same requirements. In the same working environment, synthetic oil indeed has a higher cost due to its significantly longer service life than mineral oil.
A few days ago, my friend just bought a new car. Excited, he asked me if he could use 10w40 engine oil, which reminded me of similar situations. As a frequent driver, I think it's best not to use high-viscosity oil like 10w40 for new cars, as it is much thicker than the recommended low-viscosity oils like 0w20 or 5w30. During cold starts, the oil flows slower, potentially increasing engine wear and fuel consumption; in high summer temperatures, lubrication may not be as smooth, and long-term use could lead to more carbon buildup or emission issues. New car engines are often designed with precision, and using 10w40, which is unsuitable, may accelerate part aging, and repair costs could be high if faults occur. I suggest new car owners first check the manual for the recommended oil type—don’t save small money at the expense of the whole car. Using the right oil ensures a longer lifespan.
I've driven several types of cars and found that using 10w40 oil in new vehicles does pose risks. Modern engines require rapid lubrication, yet 10w40 flows slowly during cold starts, increasing internal engine friction. While it might perform acceptably in summer, winter cold starts lead to higher fuel consumption and inadequate protection. Using incorrect oil during the warranty period may void manufacturer coverage, resulting in additional expenses. The higher viscosity of 10w40 isn't suitable for most new cars' lightweight designs and can lead to carbon buildup and system clogging. From a cost perspective, saving a few dollars on cheaper oil changes short-term isn't worth the long-term fuel efficiency loss. My experience shows that sticking to manufacturer-recommended oil specifications prevents unnecessary issues and provides better engine protection—a far wiser investment.
