Should the Mistra use 20 or 30 viscosity oil?
2 Answers
Naturally aspirated models can use 20 viscosity oil, while turbocharged models should use 30 viscosity oil. The Mistra is a mid-size sedan under Hyundai, equipped with two engines: a 1.8L naturally aspirated engine and a 1.6L turbocharged engine. More details are as follows: 1. Turbocharged engines have higher oil requirements because they contain turbochargers that also rely on oil for lubrication and cooling. 2. When operating at full load, turbochargers can reach speeds of over 100,000 RPM, significantly higher than the engine speed, so turbocharged engines demand higher oil viscosity. It is recommended not to use oil with viscosity below 30 for turbocharged engines. 3. Over time, oil performance degrades, so regular oil changes are crucial for engine maintenance. Failing to change oil promptly can accelerate engine wear. 4. Always replace the oil filter when changing oil. The oil filter cleans the oil; without it, the oil becomes contaminated quickly, affecting engine lubrication. Always purchase oil from reputable sources and opt for well-known brands.
I've been driving the Mistra for several years and have gained quite some experience in choosing engine oil. Generally, I recommend using 30-weight oil, such as 5W-30, because the Mistra's engine is designed to run most smoothly at this viscosity, offering better protection against high temperatures, especially during long summer drives when the engine is less prone to overheating. While 20-weight oil like 0W-20 is thinner and might save some fuel, it provides less protection in the long run. Aggressive driving or frequent high-speed runs could accelerate wear and tear. I suggest checking the owner's manual first—it usually specifies the viscosity. Mine, for example, recommends 5W-30. Don't just rely on online discussions; using the wrong oil can make the engine noisier and even shorten its lifespan. To be safe, I always stick with 30-weight oil and maintain regular oil change intervals.
