Will switching from 5w30 to 0w30 affect the engine?
2 Answers
Switching from 5w30 engine oil to 0w30 engine oil will not have any negative impact on the engine, and it actually benefits the engine. 0w30 oil has better low-temperature fluidity than 5w30 oil, which helps reduce engine noise and internal component friction after cold starts. Here are the differences between the two oils: 1. Different low-temperature fluidity: 5w30 oil can flow normally at -30°C, while 0w30 oil can flow normally at -35°C, making 0w30 oil superior in low-temperature fluidity. 2. Different viscosity: The kinematic viscosity of 5W30 at 100°C is 11, while that of 0W30 is 12.2. The shear value of 5W30 is 3.1, and that of 0W30 is 3.6, so 5W30 is thinner with smaller molecular structure under high temperatures.
Over the two decades of driving, I've experimented with various oil change methods. Switching from 5w30 to 0w30 primarily involves two aspects: the first number indicates cold-weather fluidity, where 0w is slightly thinner than 5w, making winter starts smoother in sub-zero temperatures as the oil flows quicker to all engine parts, reducing cold-start wear. The latter number, 30, denotes the same high-temperature viscosity, so performance in hot weather remains largely unchanged. Overall, switching to 0w30 is quite safe, especially if you live in colder regions, as it can help save fuel and extend engine life. However, it's crucial to check the vehicle manual's recommendations, as older engines or certain designs may prefer 5w to avoid long-term minor issues. Simply put, the switch is generally harmless and often beneficial.
