Is it better to use 5w30 or 5w40 for the Lavida 1.6L naturally aspirated engine?
2 Answers
It is better to use 5w30 for the Lavida 1.6L naturally aspirated engine. Difference in high-temperature stability: The number after "W" indicates the kinematic viscosity of the engine oil at 100°C. A higher number means greater viscosity, which provides better protection at high temperatures and reduces the likelihood of thinning under heat. In other words, 5w40 is more stable at high temperatures compared to 5w30. Difference in application: 5w40 has better viscosity than 5w30, making it more suitable for older vehicles. 5w30 is more effective in reducing fuel consumption, allowing the engine to dissipate heat faster and more efficiently while also producing less noise, making it suitable for new cars or naturally aspirated engines.
Speaking of my Lavida 1.6L naturally aspirated engine, I've been driving it for several years and I always stick to 5W40 oil. Living in the hot southern summers, the higher viscosity 40-grade oil provides better engine protection, reduces friction noise, and ensures smoother performance, especially after high-speed driving. The car manual recommends 5W40, as Volkswagen engines are designed to favor it, making it quite suitable for naturally aspirated engines. I tried 5W30 for a short period and felt that while cold starts were quicker, the oil seemed too thin under prolonged high loads, leading to slightly higher fuel consumption. If your car is older or frequently used for long-distance driving, 40-grade oil is a safer bet to prevent excessive wear and major overhauls. Regularly check the oil condition and change it seasonally or by mileage—don’t skimp by buying low-quality products.
