What is the essential difference between Toyota Genuine 5w20 and 0w20?

[DeAnastasia]

Here are the differences between Toyota Genuine 5w20 and 0w20: 1. Different viscosity: The viscosity of 0w20 is lower than that of 5w20. Regardless of the brand, engine oil uses the unified SAE grade identification. The winter oil grades for viscosity classification are: 0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W, 25W. The symbol W stands for winter. The smaller the number before W, the lower the low-temperature viscosity, the better the low-temperature fluidity, and the lower the applicable minimum temperature. The number after W represents the stability of the oil at high temperatures. 2. Different applicable temperatures: The applicable temperature range for 5w20 is -30℃~-35℃; the applicable temperature range for 0w20 is -35℃~-40℃. "0W" means it can start normally at temperatures as low as -35 degrees. 3. Different starting performance at low temperatures: The number before W represents the fluidity at low temperatures. The smaller the number, the better the starting performance at low temperatures. Therefore, the starting performance of 0w20 at low temperatures is better than that of 5w20.

[VanElliot]

I think the essential difference between Toyota Genuine 5W20 and 0W20 mainly lies in the number before the 'W'. 'W' stands for winter, and 5 or 0 indicates the grade of low-temperature fluidity—the smaller the number, the faster and smoother the oil flows during cold starts. 0W20 can easily start the engine even at temperatures as low as -30°C or below, without any slow start or stuttering issues. On the other hand, 5W20 is suitable for climates around -25°C and performs decently in slightly warmer areas, but may not be as effective in extreme cold compared to the former. At high temperatures, both oils are the same because the '20' after the 'W' indicates the same viscosity, meaning there's no difference in engine protection performance. The choice depends on where you live—prioritize 0W20 for cold regions, while 5W20 is sufficient for moderate climates. The prices are similar, but 0W20 might have a slight advantage in fuel economy.