Should the Prado use 0w20 or 5w30?
3 Answers
The Prado requires the use of 5w30 viscosity engine oil, as 0w20 viscosity oil is too low for its engine. The domestic version of the Prado is equipped with a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, while the Middle Eastern version features a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated engine. These engines are large-displacement, multi-cylinder naturally aspirated units, hence requiring 30 viscosity oil. Here are the relevant details: 1. Using the appropriate oil: During normal engine operation, the oil forms a protective film on the surfaces of various engine components, reducing wear and friction between parts. If the oil viscosity is too low, it cannot maintain a stable protective film during operation, which can accelerate engine wear. Engines operate at high temperatures, and low-viscosity oil tends to thin out under these conditions, making it unsuitable. 2. Oil specifications: The 'w' in oil grades stands for 'winter.' The number before 'w' indicates the oil's low-temperature flow performance. For example, 0w oil can flow normally at -35°C, while 5w oil can flow at -30°C. The number after 'w' represents the oil's high-temperature viscosity—the higher the number, the higher the viscosity. When purchasing oil, focus on the number after 'w' and choose the viscosity that best suits your vehicle's engine.
As a veteran mechanic with over a decade of experience, I can tell you that choosing oil for a Prado depends on the year and engine model. The new 3.5L engine must use 0w20 because modern engines have higher machining precision and require this thinner, fast-flowing oil, which also makes cold starts easier in winter. For the older 4.0L engine, 5w30 is more reliable since older machines have slightly larger component gaps, and thicker oil provides better sealing. You should also consider your daily driving conditions—if you frequently drive in high-temperature areas or go off-roading with heavy loads, 5w30 is recommended for better protection. The oil change interval also affects the choice: full synthetic 0w20 can be changed every 8,000 km, while semi-synthetic oil should be changed earlier. Never mix oils randomly—engine repairs can be very expensive.
I've been driving a Prado for five years and used to struggle with engine oil choices. The manual states that the new model uses 0w20 for better fuel efficiency, environmental friendliness, and faster cold starts, with fuel consumption about half a liter lower than 5w30. However, older engines with wear might experience faster oil consumption with 0w20, making 5w30 a more reliable choice. My 2016 model now runs quieter on 5w30, especially during highway driving in summer. Always opt for full synthetic oil for maintenance—don’t cheap out with mineral oil. For frequent short trips or city traffic, 0w20 offers better cleaning performance. Most importantly, follow the manual’s specifications and avoid being misled by repair shops into using higher viscosity oils unnecessarily.
