Nowadays, it is quite common to mix the two types of motor oils with various intentions like increasing the mileage of the car. You can also use expensive motor oil and mix it with less expensive motor oil to save up the cost. If you wish to mix the 5W20 oil and the 5W30 oil, then it might not fit your car in the long term, and it is not ideal to do so.
However, if you are using this mixture occasionally, then it might not be that much of a big impact on your car.
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Can you mix two types of motor oil of different viscosity and components?
Yes, you can mix two different oils with different weights and viscosity; however, if you do this regularly, it might negatively impact your car’s engine performance. That is why it is never advised to use a mixture of two different oils with different viscosity in your car. You should look for oils that are compatible or are in the range of the recommended oil weight.
Oil weight is termed viscosity, the main factor that should be considered for engine oil. The oil with lower viscosity can easily be poured at low temperatures compared to oil with a higher viscosity. Lower viscous motor oil will flow quickly to the engine parts and will aid in the development of the lubrication film on engine parts, leading to durability.
Difference between 5w-20 and 5w-30
The main difference between the oils, the 5W20, and the 5W30, is the oil viscosity; if we compare the two, the 5w30 engine oil comes out to be more dense than the 5W20 motor oil. This makes the 5W30 motor oil much more suitable for hotter climates than the 5W20 motor oil.
If we talk about which oil is best economically among the 5W20 and the 5W30 motor oil, then it turns out that 5W30 might be the most suitable option if you want a slightly higher mileage. This is because the 5W30 motor oil is more viscous and can handle more wear and tear than the 5W20 motor oil.
In winter or colder climates, both the 5W20 and the 5W30 motor oil works the same because both the oils are designed in the same way in terms of viscosity for the colder climates.
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Can you mix 5w20 and 5w30? The actual answer
Yes, you can use the mixture of 5w30 and 5w20 motor oil. The 5W20 motor oil is less viscous than the 5W30 motor oil; however, it is not recommended to use the mixture for long term but there’s no harm using it for long term.
Even if you intend to increase the mileage of your car or for cost-cutting, you need to do it carefully and consider the opinion of your mechanic before doing it.
Still, if you have been using this method for the long term, this might negatively impact your car’s performance.
Also Find Out: Can you Mix 5w30 and 5w40 oil
Things To Consider When Mixing 5w20 and 5w30
Even if you are mixing the 5W20 and the 5W30 motor oils, there are a few things you should keep in mind before doing so; however, it is not advised to do it for the long term as this can harm your engine’s performance. You should consider a few things before implementing this idea of mixing the two different motor oils. We have articulated all the necessary points that are worth pondering:
- The oil 5W20 and the 5W30 that you are using should be of the same company and brand.
- Both oils should belong to the API service level.
- Always consult a mechanic before doing this activity that directly impacts your car engine.
What Ratios Can You Mix?
You can mix the two motor oils and use them in your car engine, but only for a short span or in case of emergencies. It is not ideal to permanently use a mixture of two motor oils that are of different viscosity; this might be hazardous for your car engine.
Also, if you are doing it, remember to do it after consulting your mechanic to avoid any confusion. You should try going for your car owner’s manual for the correct ratios and proceed accordingly.
Will mixing oils hurt your car?
Suppose you are using a mixture of different oils occasionally. In that case, this might not affect your car in any cases. Still, in case you are using this technique permanently, this can destabilize the engine oil’s effect, reducing the efficiency of your car and eventually hampering the performance of your car. Also, remember to use the oils that belong to the same company or brand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is 5W20 good for winter?
Q2. Can You Use 5w20 Instead Of 5w30?
Conclusion
Mixing the two engine oils can be beneficial in some short terms, like the increased economy or engine performance. Still, if you use this technique for the long term, it can be harmful to your car engine, and the repairs for it can burn a hole in your pocket. To perform this technique wisely only in emergency cases. I hope I have been able to clear your confusion regarding the question “can you mix 5w20 and 5w30?”
