Is higher viscosity oil better for high mileage cars?
High-mileage motor oil doesn’t hurt and it could prevent leaks from starting. Some mechanics recommend switching to a thicker (higher viscosity) oil — such as 10W-30 full synthetic oil instead of 5W-20 full synthetic — or using oil additives to stop leaks.
Why would a car need to use a higher viscosity oil as it gets older vs New?
As cars get older, the engine components start to wear at the places they meet and churn up against each other. This causes small gaps to form where they wouldn’t exist if the engine were newer. Higher viscosity oil can help better lubricate these tough-to-reach areas.
Can I use 5w30 instead of 5w20 in high mileage engine?
Can You Use 5w30 Instead Of 5w20. It is not recommended. Although they both have the same winter rating of 5, the thickness (viscosity) of 5w30 is a bit higher than 5w20. That means your engine’s at stake for using the high viscosity oil.
Is 5W 20 or 5w30 better for high mileage?
Yes, you can. The 5W 30 oil will have more viscosity, meaning more thickness and would do a good job at lubing the engine parts especially at high speed driving. Not that 5W 20 is bad.
Does high mileage oil matter?
Who needs high mileage oil? Cars with more than 75,000 on their odometer can usually benefit from high mileage oil. Older vehicles with fewer miles can benefit too, as engine seals can erode over time regardless of mileage. Degraded seals mean leaking oil, and leaking oil means your engine isn’t working at its best.
What happens if you use a higher viscosity oil?
Using oil that is thicker than recommended may lead to a decrease in fuel economy, a higher load on your engine, and even a shorter life for your engine. Conversely, using thinner, lighter-weight oil than recommended can cause excessive wear and shorter life.
Should I use higher viscosity oil for older cars?
Using a viscosity one grade higher or lower than what’s recommended for your engine likely won’t do lasting harm. But, to alleviate any concerns about engine protection and your vehicle warranty, it’s best to use the viscosity recommended in your owner’s manual.
What happens if I put 10w40 instead of 5w30?
If you use 10-w-40 instead of 5-w-30 specified by the manufacturer then the viscosity of 10-w-40 used by you will be higher and oil thicker than what is specified during winters. Similarly the oil viscosity will be higher and oil thicker than specified during summers.
What type of oil is best for high mileage cars?
10 Top-Rated Oils and Additives for High-Mileage Vehicles
- Valvoline High Mileage with MaxLife Technology Synthetic Blend Motor Oil.
- Pennzoil High Mileage Motor Oil.
- Slick 50 Recharged High Mileage Treatment.
- Gumout Fuel System Cleaner.
- Royal Purple High Mileage Synthetic.
- Techron Fuel Cleaner.
- Mobil Super High Mileage Oil.
At what mileage should I switch to high mileage oil?
The first is to switch when your vehicle reaches 75,000 miles. The second is to switch if your older vehicle is beginning to show signs of engine loosening. If you notice an oil drip, that’s a sign you should start using high-mileage engine oil.
Is high mileage oil thicker or thinner?
Newer vehicles can utilize thinner oils for faster lubrication of new engine parts. In contrast, older, high-mileage engines benefit from thicker oils to prevent friction and oil loss.
What is the advantage of high mileage oil?
It can help reduce oil consumption, smoke, and emissions from older engines. High mileage oil also works to minimize leaks and oil seepage. While you could use high mileage oil in a younger car without harming it, the issues that high mileage oil addresses usually don’t appear in vehicles with fewer than 75,000 miles.