The oil grades 0W-30, 5W-20, and 5W-30 are equivalent to 0W-20 oil. Therefore, you can use these oil grades as alternatives to 0W-20.
But don’t jump to a conclusion just yet.
Sure, you can use 0w-30, 5w-20, and 5w-30 oil grades replacing 0w20. However, making it a random choice is not a good idea. If you can’t find 0w20 than use other grades.
These oils flow smoothly in your engine and provide similar advantages such as enhanced engine performance, fuel efficiency, improved gas mileage, and reduced sludge formation.
However, the engine has its own function and regularity. Using the wrong oil can lead to inadequate engine protection.
Now, let’s have a closer look at the basics that can create a significant impact on your decision regarding this matter.
0W-20 Oil Difference from Other Oils: Side-by-Side Comparison
Without babbling too much, let’s just have a side-by-side performative comparison between 0w-20 and other similar functioning oil grades.
| Property | 0W-20 | 0W-30 | 5W-20 | 5W-30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viscosity at Low Temps | Excellent | Good | Good | Good |
| Viscosity at High Temps | Good | Good | Good | Good |
| Engine Start-Up | Very Smooth | Smooth | Smooth | Smooth |
| Fuel Efficiency | Excellent | Good | Good | Good |
| Engine Performance | Excellent | Good | Good | Good |
| Recommended Applications | Modern Cars | Diverse Range | Modern Cars | Diverse Range |
| Cold Weather Performance | Best | Good | Good | Good |
| Hot Weather Performance | Good | Good | Good | Good |
| Sludge Build-Up | Reduced | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate |
| Manufacturer Approval | Common | Common | Common | Common |
| Recommended for Turbocharged Engines | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
As you can see, compared to oils like 0W-30 or 5W-20, the difference with 0W-20 is minimal. According to manufacturer data, 0W-20 is a bit more robust, making it perform better in colder climates, though engine efficiency remains consistent.
In contrast, when compared to heavier oils like 10W-30 or 20W-50, 0W-20 is notably thinner. It excels in low-temperature conditions, offering smooth flow with minimal friction in the engine.
Conversely, 20W-50 is a high-temperature oil designed for heavy-duty diesel and gasoline engines, not typically used in everyday vehicles.
So, there should be no more confusions regarding the difference.
What to do if 0W-20 synthetic oil isn’t available?
First, you better try to look for similar synthetic oil. It’s a good idea to know about some popular brands that produce 0w-20 synthetic oil. So, you can look at those brands. The most popular brands include:
- Mobil
- Castrol
- Pennzoil Platinum
- Amsoil
- Royal Purple
- Liqui Moly
- Valvoline
- Idemitsu
So, you better try to look for synthetic oil from different brands. Still, failed to find one?
The Second Alternative
Now, you can do one thing, check the manufacturer’s data and your car’s warranty. Choose the oil grade that is warranty-friendly. Using 0w30 or 0w40 oil grade is a good option if you own a BMW or similar vehicle.
0w-20 is too thin. Considering the thinness, using 0w-40 should be a fine option.
When Should You Consider to Replace 0w-20?
This question wires down to the thinness. 0w-20 is too thin. Too many premature engines and hot weather climates are a hindrance for 0w-20 grade synthetic oil.
If you live in a hot weather climate substituting 0w-30, 0w-40, and 5w-20 should not pose any problem. But just like I said, always check the warranty-friendly listing of oil grade.
But change comes at a good cost.
0W-20 is required for the 10,000-mile OCIs. Just study the owner’s manual closely and you’ll understand what I am trying to say. The manual usually states that 5W-20 can be substituted, but then the OCI is reduced to 5,000 miles.
Related Readings:
- Can I Put 5 Quarts Of Oil Instead Of 4
- Can I Use 20w50 Instead Of 10w30
- Can I Use 15w40 Instead Of 5w20
Final Verdict
We can understand why people want to find a reliable substitute for 0w-20 grade synthetic oil. It’s too thin.
However, choosing the right engine oil can bring significant change. Substituting the recommended grade will cost you something even though you are getting benefits.
The right approach here is choosing the right viscosity and grade oils that meet your warranty requirements.
