What is the difference between 0W20 and 0W40?
4 Answers
The differences between 0W20 and 0W40 are as follows: 1. Base viscosity differs: 0W40 oil has a higher viscosity than 0W20 oil, meaning that at the same temperature, 0W40 oil has much poorer fluidity compared to 0W20. 2. High-temperature shear resistance differs: 0W40 oil is superior to 0W20 oil, providing a stronger and thicker oil film. 0W-40 oil offers better high-temperature protection, as higher kinematic viscosity in oil results in better high-temperature shear resistance. The higher the high-temperature shear resistance of the oil, the better the stability of the oil film and the engine protection capability. If the oil film is torn due to insufficient strength during high-speed engine operation, it can lead to wear. Below is relevant content introduction: Oil selection: Since oil significantly affects the performance and lifespan of the engine, it is essential to strictly follow the vehicle's user manual to select oil of the same series, service grade, and viscosity grade.
I usually pay close attention to motor oil selection. Simply put, it's about the difference between low-temperature performance and high-temperature viscosity. The '0' before the W represents low-temperature fluidity - both types can maintain flow at -35°C, providing good cold-start protection in winter. But there's a big difference between the numbers 20 and 40, which indicate the oil's viscosity at 100°C operating temperature. 0W20 is noticeably thinner with lower flow resistance, making it particularly suitable for modern small-displacement cars with auto start-stop systems to save fuel. 0W40 is more viscous with thicker oil film at high temperatures, offering stronger protection during prolonged high-RPM operation - more suitable for older cars that frequently drive on highways or for those who enjoy aggressive driving.
Choosing the right engine oil depends on your vehicle's condition. Nowadays, 0W20 is commonly recommended for new Japanese and Korean models—Toyota hybrids using this grade can save half a liter in fuel consumption. However, for German performance cars or older vehicles over ten years, where engine clearances have widened, 0W40 is the safer bet. Once, I used 20-weight oil in my old Tiguan, and the oil pressure light flickered on the highway—switching back to 40-weight fixed it. Always check the manual for special certification requirements, like Volkswagen's VW502 standard, which mandates 40-weight oil.
From the perspective of maintenance costs, 0W20 is more mainstream now. 4S shops use it as the default oil for servicing, which can save dozens of yuan per visit, and the fuel-saving effect is also noticeable in the long run. But don't just look at the price. For example, my buddy's modified Golf GTI, which had its ECU tuned, suffered camshaft wear from stubbornly using 20 viscosity oil, costing over 8,000 yuan to repair. Lower viscosity does indeed mean weaker heat dissipation and oil film strength. For vehicles frequently carrying heavy loads, climbing slopes, or operating in high-temperature areas during summer, using 40 viscosity is more reassuring. Actually, 5W30 is the most versatile choice, suitable for owners who are unsure.
