What is the difference between engine oil w20 and w30?
2 Answers
w20 is more suitable for use in lower temperature regions compared to w30. The "W" stands for winter, and the smaller the number before it, the better the low-temperature fluidity of the oil, indicating a lower usable environmental temperature and better engine protection during cold starts. The number after the "W" (after the hyphen) represents the oil's high-temperature resistance index; the larger the number, the better the oil's protective performance at high temperatures. Below is some relevant information about engine oil: 1. Function of engine oil: Engine oil lubricates and reduces friction in the engine, assists in cooling, seals against leaks, prevents rust and corrosion, and provides shock absorption. It is known as the "blood" of a car. Choosing the right oil and changing it regularly can maintain the engine in good condition and extend its lifespan. 2. Oil selection: When selecting engine oil, it's not about choosing the most expensive one but rather selecting the most suitable oil based on the characteristics of the car's engine and driving habits. It can be categorized by the oil used in winter and the oil used in summer. For winter use, the primary consideration is the low-temperature viscosity grade, while in summer, due to higher temperatures, there's no need to choose an oil with a better low-temperature viscosity grade.
The main difference between W20 and W30 engine oils lies in their viscosity. W20 has lower viscosity, meaning it flows more easily during cold starts, especially on winter mornings when the engine won't hesitate. I've driven several cars and found W20 makes cold starts much smoother in northern winters. W30 has higher viscosity and provides better protection at high temperatures, preventing engine overheating during summer traffic jams or long highway drives. Simply put, W20 saves some fuel and makes the car more responsive; W30 is more stable, suitable for older cars or high-temperature environments. I recommend checking your vehicle's manual for recommendations. As a commuter, I change oil according to seasons: W20 in winter, W30 in summer. Ultimately, your choice should match your driving habits – don't switch randomly as it affects engine lifespan.
