Can I Mix 5w20 and 5w30? Choose the Right Engine Oil

Yes, you can 5W20 and 5W30 engine oils since they are both synthetic and can perform extremely well at different temperatures. However, in extreme weather conditions, you might face a few problems if you mix these oils. 

In cold weather, 5W20 will thin out and in warmer weather conditions 5W30 will get thicker. To get a detailed idea of the overall compatibility of different engine oils, keep reading this article. 

Can I Mix 5w20 And 5w30?

Yes, you can mix 5W20 and 5W30 engine oils, but it’s not the greatest idea. It’s better to use the oil weight recommended for your car. Mixing these oils may not give you all the benefits. The 5W30 will thin out the 5W20 in cold weather, and the 5W20 will make the 5W30 thicker in hot weather. Check your owner’s manual for the best oil weight for your car.

Bonus: Check out which one is the best type of oil for a 1.8 L Turbo. 

Will The Wrong Oil Damage My Engine?

Yes, using the incorrect engine oil will harm your engine. If the oil isn’t right, it might not properly lubricate the engine parts, causing metal-on-metal contact and potential engine damage. 

This can lead to problems like oil leaks, overheating, lower fuel efficiency, and more wear and tear on your engine. To make sure your engine gets the best protection and performance, it’s crucial to use the oil recommended by the manufacturer.

Can I Use 5w20 and 5w30 Interchangeably?

5w20 Instead of 5w30:

Yes, you can use 5W20 instead of 5W30, but it’s important to use the oil weight recommended for your car. This is because 5w30 is better for warmer weather due to its higher viscosity. So, using 5w20 means your oil has lower viscosity during extreme weather events. 

5w30 Instead of 5w20:

Yes, you can use 5w30 instead of 5w20 but once again there lies the issue of compatibility. 5w20 due to its viscosity is better in colder conditions since it can maintain the flow at a relatively better rate. 

So, always check the recommendation and then use the oil. But in normal conditions, you can use them interchangeably since they are both synthetic and work excellent at different temperatures. 

What Is The Difference Between 5w20 And 5w30 Engine Oil?

There are a few key differences between 5w20 and 5w30 engine oils. The first is that 5w20 is a lighter oil, meaning it is thinner and flows more easily. This can be beneficial in cold weather, as the oil will flow more easily and help to keep the engine moving.

Additionally, 5w20 is synthetic oil, while 5w30 is petroleum-based oil. This means that 5w20 is designed to resist breakdown and degradation better than 5w30, which can be important in extending the life of your engine.

Finally, 5w20 has a higher viscosity than 5w30, meaning it is better at protecting against wear and tear. This can help prolong your engine’s life and keep it running smoothly.

Bonus: Find out why a car stalls after an oil change. 

Can You Mix Synthetic Oil With Regular Oil?

Yes, you can mix synthetic oil with regular oil. The key is to ensure that the two oils have the same weight or thickness. This will ensure that the engine will run smoothly.

Synthetic oil is a man-made lubricant designed to last longer and withstand higher temperatures than regular oil. It can be made from various chemicals, but the most common type is polyalphaolefin (PAO).

Synthetic oil can be used in any engine, but it is particularly beneficial for high-performance engines or those that operate in extreme conditions.

While synthetic oil can also be mixed with regular oil, the two should not be mixed in large quantities. The best way to mix synthetic and regular oil is to add a small amount of synthetic oil to a full tank of regular oil. This will help to protect your engine while still providing the benefits of synthetic oil.

5w30 Or 5w20 For High Mileage?

You can choose both 5W20 and 5W30 oils for high mileage, but 5W30 is generally considered a better choice. The reason is that 5W30 oil is thicker, offering extra protection at higher temperatures, which is beneficial for warmer climates. 

Additionally, 5W30 has a higher viscosity, creating a thicker coating for improved engine protection. On the other hand, some people prefer 5W20 oil for high-mileage engines because it’s thinner and flows more easily, potentially reducing wear and tear on the engine. 

Ultimately, the best oil for a high-mileage engine depends on the engine’s specific needs and the recommendations of the manufacturer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What oil can I use instead of 5w20?

If you’re looking for an oil with similar performance to 5w20, 10w30 is a good option. These two oils have similar SAE ratings, which means they’ll perform similarly at operating or high temperatures.

However, 10w30 tends to get thicker in cold weather, so if you live in an area with colder climates, 5w20 may be a better choice.

Why does my car smoke after the oil change?

The smoke is coming from the engine because the oil is burning off. When the engine oil gets too hot, it starts to break down, which can cause smoking.

Changing your engine oil every 3,000 miles or as recommended in your car’s owner’s manual is important to help prevent this from happening.

Conclusion

While it is possible to mix 5W20 and 5W30 engine oils, it’s best to consult with an expert mechanic to see what would be the best option for your engine.

Depending on the age and make of your vehicle and how you drive, a specific weight oil may be recommended for optimal performance.

Ultimately, you want to find an engine oil that will protect your investment and keep your car running smoothly for years to come. Have you ever mixed two types of engine oils? What was the result?