Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum - 0W-20 vs 5W-20 (2023)

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Toyota 4Runner Forum - Largest 4Runner Forum(https://www.toyota-4runner.org/)

- 5th gen T4Rs(https://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/)

- - 0W-20 vs 5W-20 - Can we run both?(https://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/275270-0w-20-vs-5w-20-can-we-run-both.html)


Rapid_Amble07-17-2019 06:43 PM

Toyota 0w20 is really runny at low temperature compared to other 0w20s from Mobil 1, Amsoil and Redline.

Properties for Toyota are here Genuine Toyota Synthetic SAE 0W-20 API SN

properties for others are available elsewhere but they all have much higher viscosities at low temps - as temperatures decrease, the difference in viscosity of the other oils vs Toyota increases. Their viscosities at 0 deg. C are ~70-90% higher than Toyota oil.

You see this when using viscosity calculators such as this one Calculate viscosity at given temperature | Nimac Great Britain

I haven’t heard of any engine failures due to using Mobile 1 or any other 0w20 brand of oil over the long term. So, I suspect there’s decent tolerance in these engines for such tomfooolery as using after market 0w20 or even 5w20.

Also per the link to Toyota oil spec above, the back of the Toyota bottle shows it’s good for gas engines requiring 0w20/5w20. Maybe that’s a typo?


Tuco S.07-17-2019 07:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by eelliiss(Post 3323222)

I also think that the gas mileage decrease, however slight, over the 10k mile interval would negate the savings on oil by far.

Also, sign up for Pennzoil and Mobil 1 notifications. They regularly offer $10 and $12 off five quart jugs. You can also go to their websites and see what they offer now.

^ This.

I recently ordered two 5-quart bottles of Pennzoil 0W-20 to try out. The rebate period just closed, but they have one every year. $10 off any 5-quart bottle up to $20 off (full price is @ $23 on amazon, so nearly half off). Submitted the rebate form online for the two bottles, and received a check for $20 the same week.

Also, Havoline Pro DS 0W-20 comes in a 6-quart box for about $20 through Walmart (online). At that price, a DIY oil change with oem parts costs less than $30. Cheap enough?


83Mule07-17-2019 09:45 PM

Stop!.....too much BS. Mobil makes Toyota's 0/20 and it has minor tweaks to the add-package...it is not magical. 5/20 is fine....and this same exact motor in other parts of the world is allowed to run up to 10/30 with a full warranty. No....it won't blow up...no the VVT doesn't care. It comes down to CAFE requirements and using the most low drag oil they can spec to achieve the numbers. Does my 4Runner KNOW it isn't in Puerto Rico? Does my Truck have any part numbers in the Engine that are ''North American Only''? Does the fact it is way hotter where I live than anywhere on the planet but Death Valley mean I can't run 5/20? No,No,No and I do run 5/20 Valvoline Synth and Mo1. Toyota has spec's for running various oils based on a range of temps for many models over the last 42 years I have driven them......until CAFE and CARB got involved and twisted some arms to get what they want from the Manufacturers. Politics and Lawyers are dictating it more that the Engines inability to use several weights of oil safely.......Relax.


thennen07-17-2019 10:05 PM

1.) Besides saving $3-$5 per oil change, what motivates you to want to deviate from Toyota’s recommendation?

2.) Personally, I’ve never seen an engine failure that was caused by using slightly incorrect viscosity oil.


borfoo307-18-2019 02:24 AM

We run nothing less than 5w30.. most Toyotas around here run 20w50 weight oils. Our environment is extremely hot that thinner oils don't exist

Like mentioned above, recommended oil weight is determined not only by engine specs, but also fuel and emissions targets as well.

Most people run into problems not due to different oil weights, but neglecting timely maintenance of oil and fluids in general.


Texas_Ranger07-18-2019 06:41 PM

Here's the comparison of the oil I was wanting to try next. This stuff shows to be a great oil. The first link is the 0W-20 and the second is the same oil in 5w-20. I understand that this is trivial and not spending the green for the health of the car can be seen as controversial but this was just a question on why the prices vary on weight.

https://www.amazon.com/Pennzoil-5500...-1-spons&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Pennzoil-5500...-1-spons&psc=1


83Mule07-18-2019 08:07 PM

Keep in mind the narrower the range in weight the longer the oil stays in spec.........5-20 will hold it's Add-Pack longer....10/60 would fall out sooner. With correct intervals it's not an issue......stretch the OCI and get accelerated wear. I go 7500 but it seems 10K is fine with a quality synth oil.


Charlievee07-18-2019 08:19 PM

What about straight 50 weight?


83Mule07-19-2019 07:04 PM

50 would be too heavy and drop oil pressure on start-up, plus cut mpg. You want the lightest weight that will get the job done at operating temp so 20 is fine for most usage....30 for severe heat. If you live in sub-zero the 0/20 makes the most sense at start-up but even a 5/20 is only a fraction heavier at freezing. Anything over 40 degrees or so and there is no functional difference between the two.


zonzin07-19-2019 07:10 PM

Well,, I switch to 0-30 in the summer due to heat and I tow a travel trailer in the summer. My instinct tells me that is better protection than 0-20.

.


Rapid_Amble07-19-2019 09:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zonzin(Post 3324846)

Well,, I switch to 0-30 in the summer due to heat and I tow a travel trailer in the summer. My instinct tells me that is better protection than 0-20.

.

That’s an interesting choice. Any reason 5w30 wouldn’t work, to close the spread a little plus it’s summer temperatures.


Charlievee07-19-2019 09:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 83Mule(Post 3324845)

50 would be too heavy and drop oil pressure on start-up, plus cut mpg. You want the lightest weight that will get the job done at operating temp so 20 is fine for most usage....30 for severe heat. If you live in sub-zero the 0/20 makes the most sense at start-up but even a 5/20 is only a fraction heavier at freezing. Anything over 40 degrees or so and there is no functional difference between the two.

Sarcasm, these tiny mighty mo's can't handle real American crude. Lol

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_hrJyoKmDk&app=desktop


Axix2307-19-2019 11:44 PM

keeping in simple terms, the first number 0 or 5 is the weight of the oil when its cold. the second number is for when the oil is hot. So, say you have a turbo car in Alaska, your probably going to want to run a very low first number so the oil circulates through the engine/turbo faster so it doesn't cause damages.

I have a high hp turbo Honda and I normally run Mobil 1 (0w40) I am running a higher second number for added protection as turbo cars run very hot.

Running 5w20 won't kill your motor. Unless you can't find any other oil, I would just use 0w20


redneckj07-19-2019 11:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IanB(Post 3323292)

When we bought our 5th gen used the dealer had changed the oil, I drove it like that for about 5000kms and found the performance underwhelming.

I changed the oil early for this reason, used 0w20 and the difference was very noticeable right away, engine was more eager to rev, and had way more power in the upper revs, my theory is whatever weight bulk oil they used wasn't allowing the vvti to work properly, and made the truck a real dog, hopefully no damage was caused (I strongly doubt it), but it really drove home how picky these engines are about oil.

Use the right stuff, buy a case when it comes on sale, the oil change interval is LONG on these trucks so it's not like you'll have to do it every 3 months or anything.

They must have installed straight 90W



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FAQs

Is there a big difference between 5w20 and 0W20 oil? ›

As 0W20 is a far thinner oil than 5W-20, it is more stable at cold temperature than the latter and flows smoothly through the critical engine parts. 5W-20 is a comparatively thicker viscosity oil and is better for a normal operating temperature range of -22°F to 68°F.

Can I use 5w20 instead of 0W20 Toyota? ›

No, your engine will be fine with the 5w-20. If you look at your car owner's manual recommendations, it should give you a range of viscosities that are acceptable.

What happens if you use 0W-20 instead of 5W-20? ›

The 0W or 5W refers to the pumpability in cold temperatures. Therefore, a 0W would flow more easily than a 5W and could be an acceptable substitute. Thus, it is suitable to use a SAE 0W-20 as a replacement for SAE 5W-20 application. **Offers same protection as 5W but also provides faster flow and better fuel economy.

What is the recommended oil weight for Toyota 4Runner? ›

0W-20 (All TEMPS) - 0W-20 is the best choice for good fuel economy and starting in cold weather. If 0W-20 is not available 5W-20 may be used. However, it must be replaced with 0W-20 at the next oil change.

Is it OK to use 0W20 instead of 5W-30? ›

Nothing bad will happen. As long as the oil has the certification for your make and model it should be good. You will likely get a bit better cold temp performance.

What are the disadvantages of 0W20 engine oil? ›

Here are some of the cons of using 0W-20 oil:
  • Low viscosity burns easily at high temperatures.
  • Not a natural oil–synthetically made.
  • More expensive than thicker oils.

Is there a big difference between 0W-20 and 5W-30? ›

0w20 engine oil is known as the popular choice of lubricant that delivers the best performance. It flows well even at cold temperatures when compared to the 5W-30 oils, thanks to the ability of the lubricant to maintain the same viscosity or the semi-fluid consistency throughout the internal structure of an engine.

Why does Toyota recommend 0w20 oil? ›

To reduce friction 0w20 oil is used. The main reason is friction reduction and fuel efficiency. Lighter oil, less friction engine rotates faster.. better fuel economy.

What oil is best for Toyota 0w20? ›

Only Answer. Genuine Toyota motor oil 0W-20 utilizes a Toyota-specific additive package that will provide the best results for oil performance and fuel economy.

How often should you change 0W-20 oil? ›

If your Toyota vehicle uses 0w-20 synthetic oil, the manufacturer has approved an oil change interval of 10,000 miles or 12 months. Vehicle owners who use this type of oil should regularly check the oil level in the engine and top it off as needed.

Is 0W20 too thin? ›

Answer: Yes, 0W-20 is unquestionably safe for your engine. Manufacturers have been specifying 5W-20 and 0W-20 since the early part of the last decade and there is no evidence whatsoever that engine wear rates have increased.

Why do some cars use 0W-20 oil? ›

Auto manufacturers are looking to make engines smaller and lighter while delivering more power than ever. To protect these smaller powerful engines, thinner oils with better ability to protect and clean engines are needed. This has led to 0W-20 being the fastest growing grade in the motor oil marketplace.

What cars use 0W-20 oil? ›

0W20 Motor Oil - Quart
  • Recommended for small cars, hybrids and some trucks like Honda Insight and Civic Hybrids, Toyota Solara, Camry, Rav4, Tundra 5.7L and Venza.
  • Increased fuel economy and improved wear at cold start.
  • Better flow at extremely cold temperatures compared to 5W20.

How often should I change full synthetic oil on 4Runner? ›

An oil change is one of the most basic and critical services for your vehicle. Toyota recommends getting your 2022 Toyota 4Runner oil & filter changed every 3,000-5,000 miles for conventional oil. Synthetic oil ordinarily should be changed every 7,500 - 10,000 miles.

How often to change full synthetic oil 4Runner? ›

Toyota recommends getting your 2021 Toyota 4Runner oil & filter changed every 3,000-5,000 miles for conventional oil. Synthetic oil usually should be changed every 7,500 - 10,000 miles.

What kind of oil does a 2023 4Runner take? ›

Toyota 4Runner Motor Oil Change Kit - 2010-23 - 4.0L - 0W20 Fully Synthetic Eurol. BLAU Toyota 4Runner Oil Change Kit includes 7 liters of 0W20 weight engine oil, oil filter, and hardware for 2010-2023 4.0L V6 applications.

Is 5w20 better than 5W-30 in hot weather? ›

Main Differences Between 5w20 and 5w30 in Points

However, because 5w30 is more viscous than 5w20, it flows more slowly. Because of its viscosity, 5w20 is always suggested for use in cold environments or during the winter. 5w30, on the other hand, is better suitable for use in hot climates or throughout the summer.

What happens if you put 5W-30 in a 0w20 car? ›

What happen if my car requires 0w20 and I put 5w30? Absolutely nothing. Completely. It almost literally doesn't matter, except at the outer limits in super cold climates… and then only maybe.

What happens if I use 5 30 instead of 5 20? ›

Most car engines are designed to handle 5w20 oil because this type of oil flows well when the engine reaches its operating temperature of 212 degrees. If 5w30 oil is used, the engine will encounter much more resistance at this stage which is not good for it.

Is 0W-20 good for high mileage? ›

Mobil 1 High Mileage full-synthetic motor oil 0W-20 is designed for engines with over 75,000 miles to go up to 10,000 miles between oil changes.

Can you use 0W-20 in hot climate? ›

0W-20, for example, is rated at 104°F (40°C) for external temperatures, and 212°F (100°C) for internal engine temperatures. So, the 0W rating of most oils, including ENEOS, is within operational parameters of warmer climates like Hawaii, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.

Is 0W-20 good for winter? ›

0W-20 is an excellent winter viscosity grade oil with superior engine performance and a smooth oil flow. Its thinner oil structure makes it ideal for cold starts and below-freezing temperatures. The right engine oil can do wonders for the car's critical engine parts and performance.

Is 0W oil thicker than 5W? ›

The 0W-30 engine oil is a lower viscosity than a 5W-30 meaning it is thinner. As the 0W-30 is a lower viscosity, its resistance to flow is lower. The lower viscosity grade flows through the engine faster and helps the parts perform their roles more efficiently as they reduce friction.

When did Toyota switch to 0w20? ›

Idemitsu brought 0W-20 stateside in 2010. Since then, it has been the factory-fill oil of millions of Honda, Toyota and Nissan vehicles made in America. And with mounting government pressure to increase fuel economy, US automakers are now looking at 0W-20 as a viable option.

Why is 0w20 green? ›

This oil features a particularly low ash content and has a reduced high-temperature viscosity (HTHS) this results in properties such as fuel-saving. The oil is coloured with a green marker, because it is not backwards compatible and can be used only with approved engines.

Do you have to use Toyota oil in a Toyota? ›

Toyota, as you might expect, recommends that owners utilize Toyota Genuine Motor Oils when changing the oil in their vehicles. These motor oils are specifically designed to work with Toyota engines and will offer better performance than other motor oil options.

Which brand oil is best for Toyota? ›

Mobil 1™ Advanced Fuel Economy 0W-16 is recommended by ExxonMobil for select Honda and Toyota engines requiring a 0W-16 viscosity oil. ExxonMobil recommends Mobil 1™ Advanced Fuel Economy 0W-20 for 5W-20 applications and Mobil 1™ Advanced Fuel Economy 0W-30 for 5W-30 and 10W-30 applications.

Can you mix different brands of 0w20 oil? ›

THE ANSWER IS NO!

Even if two different brands of oil have the same viscosity, you still should not be mixing them together.

Is 0w20 better than 5w20 in cold weather? ›

“W” refers to winter, so both oils are ideal for use in cold temperatures. 0W-XX oils have a lower viscosity which enables the engine to respond better, while 5W-XX oils have a higher viscosity to maintain protection under extreme conditions.

What does Toyota recommend for oil changes? ›

Only Toyota vehicles in which 0w-20 synthetic oil is required (except 3UR-FBE Engines*) have been approved for extended oil change intervals of 10,000-miles/12-months. (However, you should continue to check the oil level regularly and top off if needed. That will help your engine get the full benefit of synthetic oil.)

How long is synthetic 5W 20 good for? ›

Mobil 1™ Extended Performance 5W-20

Provides proven protection for 20,000 miles between oil changes - guaranteed. While your car is under warranty follow the recommendations in your car's owner manual. An advanced full synthetic motor oil.

Can I use 0W20 in summer? ›

0w20 is a fast flowing oil used in modern multi valve engines it will flow quickly through the engine when it is cold. If it is recommended by the manufacturer it should not be a problem in hot weather.

What is the closest oil to 0W20? ›

Generally, 0W-30, 5W-20, and 5W-30 oil grades behave very similarly to 0W-20 oil. So you may want to look into those if 0W-20 oil isn't available. These are thinner oils, similar to 0W-20, and flow smoothly throughout the engine.

What happens if I put the wrong oil in my car? ›

Using the wrong engine oil can cause the metal parts of your engine to shear, making additional noise, and leaving metal shavings in your engine oil. If the temperature has been very cold, you might also be in for some trouble.

What is the lifespan of 0w20? ›

How Often Should You Change Synthetic Oil? Standard oil change intervals are typically listed at 5,000 miles or 6 months to ensure peak performance. Toyota models that are required to use 0W-20 synthetic oil extend that interval to 10,000 miles or 12 months.

Is 5w20 better for summer? ›

You'll get better protection with 5W 30 oil in cold as well as hotter climates. 5W-20 oil is best for those who live in colder climates with low temperatures. It can be used for light-duty applications, for engines that do not reach very extreme temperatures.

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