Should Volvo use 0w20 or 5w30?
2 Answers
Volvo uses 0w20. Better performance: The 0W20 model engine oil has better low-temperature performance and better fluidity. The 0 in 0W20 indicates the lowest applicable temperature of minus 35 degrees Celsius, W stands for winter, and 20 indicates that the kinematic viscosity at 100 degrees Celsius is 20. Engine lubricating oil: Engine oil is a lubricant for engines, which can lubricate and reduce wear, assist in cooling and temperature reduction, seal and prevent leakage, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption and buffering. Volvo is an automobile brand founded in Gothenburg, Sweden in 1927. Its logo consists of three parts: the first part is a circle representing Mars, the Roman god of war; the second part is a diagonal line, a ribbon set on the radiator that slopes from the upper left to the lower right; the third part is the Volvo company trademark, which is the word Volvo written in ancient Egyptian font.
I've been driving a Volvo XC60 for several years and noticed that new models, especially those after 2020, mostly recommend using 0W20 oil, as clearly stated in the manual. The main reason is that the low viscosity helps with quicker cold starts, particularly in winter when temperatures drop below zero, eliminating engine sluggishness and saving a bit of fuel. 0W20 flows better, reduces friction, and makes driving smoother; whereas 5W30 is slightly thicker, more suitable for older models like pre-2010 Volvos or if you frequently drive long distances under heavy load. I always stick to the manufacturer's recommendation—don’t switch randomly as it could affect warranty or engine lifespan. My advice is to check the manual during every service, rather than blindly trusting online opinions, since different models have different requirements.
