Should the Tayron use 5W-30 or 5W-40 engine oil?
3 Answers
The Tayron should use 5W-40 engine oil. Differences between 5W-30 and 5W-40 engine oil: 5W-40 offers better oil stability than 5W-30 under extremely high-temperature conditions in the engine. For older vehicles, using 5W-30 oil may result in slightly louder engine noise compared to 5W-40. For oils of the same quality grade, 5W-30 has better fluidity than 5W-40, which helps reduce fuel consumption and dissipate engine heat more quickly (low-viscosity oils have better fluidity than high-viscosity oils). For engines that strictly require 5W-40, using 5W-30 may lead to higher-than-normal oil consumption (commonly known as "burning oil"). Meaning of engine oil grades: These indicate the viscosity and quality of the oil. Gasoline engine oil quality grades are classified as: SA, SB, SC, SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM, with quality increasing from left to right. The "S" stands for gasoline engine oil, and the following letters represent the grade. Low-temperature viscosity grades are: 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W, 25W, with smaller numbers indicating better cold-start performance. "W" stands for "winter," indicating low-temperature performance. For example, 0W oil freezes at -35°C, while 5W oil freezes at -30°C.
I've been driving the Volkswagen Tayron for over five years, mainly in the city with occasional long-distance trips. Initially, I was torn between using 5W-30 or 5W-40 engine oil. I checked the manual and consulted a few experienced drivers, and here's what I concluded: 5W-30 provides smoother cold starts, especially in winter, due to better oil fluidity, which protects the engine faster and slightly improves fuel efficiency. On the other hand, 5W-40 performs more stably under high temperatures, such as when using air conditioning in summer or climbing hills, thanks to its thicker oil film and stronger wear resistance. Since my car is relatively new, the 4S shop recommended 5W-40, stating that Volkswagen engines prefer higher viscosity to prevent carbon buildup. After following their advice and changing the oil a few times, I noticed significantly reduced engine noise during summer drives. Remember not to switch viscosities arbitrarily—always consider your car's climate conditions and driving habits before changing the oil, as using the wrong type could affect engine lifespan.
As a young owner who just bought a Tiguan L one year ago, I pay great attention to performance and maintenance. When choosing engine oil, I checked on forums and found that 5W-30 viscosity oil is more fuel-efficient and suitable for daily commuting since thinner oil reduces engine resistance. On the other hand, 5W-40 has higher viscosity, offering better protection for engine components during high-speed driving or frequent acceleration. I often take short trips with aggressive driving, and the mechanic suggested that 5W-40 is more reliable for the Tiguan L, especially the turbocharged T version, as thicker oil can better withstand high-temperature impacts. After trying 5W-40 myself, I felt the throttle response became much firmer. But don’t overlook the basics—the oil must meet Volkswagen’s VW certification, such as the 50200 standard. Regularly check the oil dipstick, as mixing oils or delaying oil changes can lead to cylinder scoring.
