Should I choose 0w20 or 5w20 for Corolla?

[DiBrody]

Whether to choose 0w20 or 5w20 engine oil for Corolla mainly depends on the vehicle's usage environment: 1. If you are in the northern region with colder weather, 0w20 engine oil is recommended. 0w20 oil has better low-temperature fluidity and cold resistance than 5w20. 2. If you are in the milder climate of the southern region, 5w20 is completely sufficient. Here is some relevant information about engine oil: 1. The number before W represents the oil's cold resistance. For example, 0W oil will freeze at -35°C, while 5W oil will freeze at -30°C. 2. The low-viscosity grades of engine oil are 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W, and 25W. The smaller the number, the better the low-temperature cold start performance. The viscosity grades at 100°C are 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60, with higher numbers indicating higher viscosity.

[MargaretLee]

I've been driving for many years and am quite familiar with the Corolla. Choosing engine oil depends on your daily environment. 0w20 has better low-temperature fluidity, providing superior protection during cold starts in winter, preventing engine wear, and offering slightly better fuel efficiency—especially in northern regions with significant temperature variations. 5w20 is also usable, performing similarly in areas with milder temperatures like the south, though with slightly higher fuel consumption. Toyota manuals typically recommend 0w20 as it aligns with modern engine designs, ensuring fuel economy. I suggest prioritizing 0w20—don’t worry about the slightly higher cost; the oil change interval remains the same, and it’s better for your car in the long run. If budget is tight or you live in a consistently warm region, 5w20 is an acceptable alternative, but avoid using higher-viscosity oils unnecessarily.

[OmarDella]

I drive a Corolla to commute every day, and fuel costs on the road are a big concern. When it comes to engine oil, I prefer 0w20—it starts up quickly in cold temperatures, makes the engine quieter, and ensures smoother cold starts during the morning rush hour. 5w20 performs decently at normal temperatures, but in winter, the oil temperature drops faster, potentially increasing fuel consumption, though the difference is smaller in summer. Toyota vehicles are designed to match 0w20, and following the manual's recommendation saves money and protects the car. I've tried both oils during changes, and after switching to 0w20, my city fuel consumption dropped by about 0.5 points, and highway driving felt more stable. If you live in a tropical area or have a tight budget, 5w20 can work, but don’t neglect regular oil level checks.

[Rod]

As an average driver, choosing oil for the Corolla is straightforward. Toyota recommends 0W20, so prioritizing it is safe and ensures good engine protection in cold temperatures. 5W20 can be used in warmer climates with minimal difference. The key is keeping maintenance simple.