What does 5w30 engine oil mean?
2 Answers
5w30 engine oil means: 5 represents the applicable temperature above -30 degrees Celsius; W stands for Winter; 30 indicates that the viscosity of the oil at 100 degrees Celsius is 30. The larger the number, the higher the viscosity of the oil, the stronger its ability to withstand high temperatures, and the better its high-temperature protection performance. The SAE lubricant viscosity classification for winter oil grades includes: 0w, 5w, 10w, 15w, 20w, 25w; the SAE lubricant viscosity classification for summer oil grades includes: 20, 30, 40, 50. The larger the number, the higher the viscosity and the higher the applicable maximum temperature.
The 5W30 oil label is basically a viscosity grade, telling you how the oil performs in cold and hot weather. The 'W' stands for 'Winter,' and the 5 indicates low-temperature viscosity—the lower the number, the better the flow in cold conditions, making it easier to start your car in sub-zero temperatures. The 30 represents high-temperature viscosity—a higher number means better engine protection against wear in hot weather. 5W30 is widely recommended for many family cars because it offers a good balance of fuel efficiency and engine longevity. It's closely tied to ambient temperatures: use oil with better cold flow in freezing winters and higher high-temperature viscosity in scorching summers for stable engine operation. Always check your manual during DIY maintenance and avoid switching to other grades like 0W20, which may be thinner but offers less protection.
