Can I use 10w40 instead of 5w20? Yes, It is possible to use 10W40 oil instead of 5W20, but it is important to let the engine cool down before making the switch.
Additionally, it is possible to mix oils to achieve a desired viscosity, such as mixing 10W and 30W to get 20W or mixing 5W20 and 10W40.
However, as always, it is important to refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate oil viscosity for your specific engine.
Relevant: 15w40 Vs 10w30
10w40 vs 5w20: Comparison Table Between 10w40 and 5w20
Let’s the differences between 10w40 and 5w20.
| Property | 10W40 | 5W20 |
|---|---|---|
| Viscosity at high temperatures | Thicker, providing better engine protection at high temperatures | Thinner, allowing for better fuel efficiency and faster cold starts |
| Viscosity at low temperatures | Thicker, making it more difficult to start the engine in cold weather | Thinner, allowing for easier cold starts and less engine wear during cold starts |
| Recommended use | Older engines or those with high mileage, or in hot climates | Modern engines, or those operating in colder climates |
| Fuel efficiency | Typically lower due to the thicker viscosity | Typically higher due to the thinner viscosity |
| Engine protection | Provides better protection against wear and tear in older engines, but may not be as effective in newer engines | Provides good protection against engine wear and tear in modern engines |
| Manufacturer recommendations | May or may not be recommended by all manufacturers, always refer to the owner’s manual for the recommended viscosity | Recommended by many manufacturers for use in modern engines |
3 Reasons For Using 10W-40 instead of 5W-20
There are several reasons why you might want to use 10W-40 instead of 5W-20 –
1. Better protection for high-mileage engines
One of the primary reasons to choose 10W-40 over 5W-20 is if you have a high mileage engine. High mileage engines tend to experience more wear and tear, and as a result, they need a thicker oil that can provide better protection.
10W-40 has a higher viscosity than 5W-20, which means it can better withstand the stresses and strains that high mileage engines are subjected to. Additionally, the higher viscosity of 10W-40 can help reduce oil leaks and consumption in older engines.
2. Better protection for hot weather and heavy loads
Another reason to choose 10W-40 is if you live in an area with hot weather or if you frequently haul heavy loads with your vehicle. In these situations, the oil in your engine can get hot and thin, which can reduce its ability to protect your engine.
10W-40 has a higher viscosity than 5W-20, which means it can better withstand the heat and maintain its protective properties. Additionally, the thicker oil can help prevent engine damage when carrying heavy loads.
Note: Dont Miss This Article: Can You Use 75w90 Instead Of 75w85
3. Reduced oil consumption in engines that burn oil
If your engine is burning oil, using 10W-40 can help reduce oil consumption. When an engine burns oil, it can cause the oil to thin out and break down more quickly, which can reduce its ability to protect your engine.
10W-40 has a higher viscosity than 5W-20, which means it can better withstand the effects of oil burning and last longer in the engine. This can reduce the frequency with which you need to top up your oil, saving you time and money in the long run.
Also Read: Can I Use 85w140 instead of 80w90
What Does 10w40 Mean?
The numbers “10W-40” on a motor oil bottle represent the oil’s viscosity rating, which is a measure of how easily the oil flows at different temperatures.
The “W” stands for winter, and the number before the “W” (in this case, 10) indicates the oil’s viscosity at low temperatures, with lower numbers indicating thinner oil that flows more easily in cold temperatures. The “40” indicates the oil’s viscosity at high temperatures, with higher numbers indicating thicker oil that provides better protection under high temperature and high load conditions.
So, 10W-40 oil is a multi-grade oil that provides good performance in a wide range of temperatures, with a viscosity of 10 at low temperatures and 40 at high temperatures.
Also Read: Can You Use 10w40 Instead Of 15w40
What Does 5w20 Mean?
The numbers “5W-20” on a motor oil bottle represent the oil’s viscosity rating, which is a measure of how easily the oil flows at different temperatures.
The “W” stands for winter, and the number before the “W” (in this case, 5) indicates the oil’s viscosity at low temperatures, with lower numbers indicating thinner oil that flows more easily in cold temperatures. The “20” indicates the oil’s viscosity at high temperatures, with higher numbers indicating thicker oil that provides better protection under high temperature and high load conditions.
So, 5W-20 oil is a multi-grade oil that provides good performance in a wide range of temperatures, with a viscosity of 5 at low temperatures and 20 at high temperatures. This type of oil is commonly recommended for use in modern engines to help improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Dont Miss This Article Too: 5W20 vs. 10W40
FAQ’s
Q: What can you use instead of 5w20?
if 5W20 oil is not available or suitable for your specific engine, there are other viscosity grades that can be used as a substitute.
For example, if 5W20 is not available, you can use 0W20, which is a thinner oil that provides good fuel efficiency and cold starting performance. Alternatively, you can use 5W30 or 10W30, which are both slightly thicker than 5W20 but still provide good engine protection and fuel efficiency.
Q: Can I use 10W40 in my petrol car?
Yes, you can use 10W40 motor oil in a petrol car as long as it is recommended by the vehicle manufacturer and meets the required performance specifications.
Q: Is 10w40 good for high mileage?
Yes, 10W40 motor oil can be a good choice for high mileage engines, as it is typically thicker and provides better engine protection against wear and tear. The thicker viscosity can help to seal gaps and reduce oil consumption in older engines that may have developed some leaks or worn out seals.
Q: How long does 10W-40 oil last?
The lifespan of 10W-40 oil can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the oil, driving conditions, and the age and condition of the engine. As a general guideline, most manufacturers recommend changing the oil and oil filter every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first.
Q: Is Thicker oil better for cars that burn oil?
Thicker oil may provide better performance for cars that burn oil, as it can reduce oil consumption by reducing the amount of oil that gets past worn piston rings and other engine components.
Q: Can I Use 10W40 Instead of 5W20 In My 2005 Honda Cr-v Engine?
No, it is not recommended to use 10W40 motor oil instead of 5W20 in your 2005 Honda CR-V engine.
Honda’s engineers recommend using 5W20 motor oil in Honda engines to ensure that the engine is protected against wear and tear, while also promoting fuel efficiency and reducing harmful emissions.
Q: Can you put 10w40 in a 5w20 engine?
Yes, it is possible to use synthetic oil in older engines. Synthetic oil offers better protection and performance, even in older engines with high mileage or wear. However, it is important to choose the correct viscosity and API rating for your specific engine and to follow the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals.
Also Read: Can You Use 85w140 Instead of 75w140
Lets End…
While the recommended oil viscosity grade for your vehicle may be 5W-20, there are situations where using 10W-40 or other viscosity grades may be more suitable. High mileage engines, hot weather and heavy loads, and engines that burn oil can all benefit from the thicker protection that 10W-40 provides.
Choosing the right oil viscosity can help prolong the life of your engine and ensure that it runs smoothly for years to come.
