Engine oil is one essential fluid for your vehicle, the primary function of which is to lubricate moving parts. Other roles include cleaning, preventing heat buildup, and also keeping the engine from corrosion.
One other thing you should know about is that there are two categories of engine oil, specifically synthetic oil and mineral oil. Synthetic oil is made of artificially derived chemical compounds, while the latter is derived from nature.
Synthetic oils are the most desirable as they work nicely even at extreme temperatures. Since we are talking about synthetic engine oils, we should know about the 0w20 vs 5w20 argument.
These are both synthetic oils that have caught the attention of numerous car buffs and mechanics as they wonder which of the two is the best. If you fall in this category, then you are in luck, as we will explore the 0w20 vs. 5w20 debate, focusing on their various attributes.
0W-20 vs 5W-20: What Are They?
0W-20 and 5W-20 are types of multi-grade oil with low viscosity and low pour point temperatures.
What does that mean?
Instead of thickening, these oils flow (or pour) more easily at low temperatures.
Now, let’s break down their acronyms.
The letter ‘W’ stands for ‘Winter,’ indicating that both oils are suitable for cold weather conditions. They help your cars achieve a better fuel economy by requiring less idling time.
The numbers indicate the viscosity or thickness of the engine oil.
- The number before ‘W’ indicates the oil’s viscosity at a low temperature.
- The second number after ‘W’ represents the oil’s viscosity at the engine’s operating temperature (or higher temperatures).
This means that the 0W20 oil has a viscosity rating of 0 in low temperatures and 20 at the engine’s normal operating temperature. Similarly, the 5W20 oil has a viscosity rating of 5 at a cold temperature and 20 at the engine’s normal operating temperature.
Important: Engine oil with low viscosity flows easily at a low temperature, whereas a higher viscosity oil is thicker and flows slowly.
Given their different viscosity ratings, which is more likely to enhance engine performance during a cold start?
5W20 vs 0W20 engine oils: Comparison Highlighted in Table
Note: Recommendations may vary for your vehicle, so it’s best to consult your car’s manual or a professional mechanic for the best choice of engine oil. Here’s the comparison between 5W20 and 0W20 engine oils:
| Characteristic | 5W20 Engine Oil | 0W20 Engine Oil |
| Cold Weather Performance | Offers good cold start protection, but slightly thicker than 0W20. | Provides excellent cold start protection due to its thinner consistency. |
| Operating Temperature Performance | Performs well in normal operating conditions, especially in warmer climates. | Offers good performance in a wide range of temperatures. Suitable for both cold and warm climates. |
| Viscosity at Low Temperatures (0⁰C) | Thicker (SAE 5W) at low temperatures. | Thinner (SAE 0W) at low temperatures. |
| Viscosity at Operating Temperatures (100⁰C) | SAE 20 | SAE 20 |
| Fuel Efficiency | Slightly less fuel-efficient than 0W20 due to its higher viscosity when cold. | Generally offers slightly better fuel efficiency because it’s thinner, reducing internal engine friction. |
| Engine Protection | Provides good engine protection, but it may take a little longer to reach full lubrication during cold starts. | Offers excellent engine protection, especially during cold starts, due to its quick flow and thinner consistency. |
| Common Use Cases | Commonly used in older vehicles and in regions with warmer climates. | Often meant for newer vehicles and in areas with colder climates. |
| Recommended Applications | Most gasoline engines | Gasoline engines in cold climates and turbocharged engines |
| Oil Change Intervals | Manufacturer recommendations, but slightly more frequent compared to 0W20 due to slightly faster degradation. | Manufacturer recommendations but typically meant for longer intervals due to better fuel efficiency and engine protection. |
| Cold Start Protection | Good | Excellent |
| Wear protection | Good | Slightly Less |
0w20 vs. 5w20 Diffrences
With the differences pin-pointed above, you have had a clear overview. But to get to the root of the debate, you have to dive far deeper into the differences between the two types of oils. Read on.
One standout difference you will notice is in their naming. The ‘W’ denotes winter, meaning the two oils are ideal for use in cold temperatures. The two numbers refer to their viscosity in different conditions.
The first number is the viscosity in cold temperatures, while the last number after the letter is the viscosity in operating temperatures. The number and letter arrangement is per SAE grade standards, which grade oils according to their thickness.
In the case of 0w20, for example, is that the oil is suitable for use in cold temperatures. The 0 is its viscosity in low temperatures, while the 20 is the viscosity in operating temperature. When you bring the 5w20 into the equation, you see the main variation is the viscosity in low temperatures. Otherwise, they have the same operating temperature thickness.
The 0w20 is less viscous in low temperatures, which means it will perform better than its counterpart. The two oils are of high quality and will also work in high temperatures, though not extreme. What of 0w20 vs. 0w30 oils? The 0w30 is ideal for both low and high temperatures, evident by its significant operating temperature.
The same applies to the 5w20 vs. 5w30 discussion, where the former is a high-performance oil that finds extensive use in light petrol and diesel engines. Many car manufacturers recommend the 0w20 and 5w20 due to their great performance in harsh weather conditions. 5w30 and 0w30 work better in high temperatures, while 5w20 and 0w20 work well in cool temperatures.
Ow20 vs. 5w20 Viscosity
When changing motor oils from one type to another, you should look at the viscosity. It simply means the thickness of oil in hot and cold temperatures.
The thinner the oil at extreme temperatures, the better. It will be more efficient in functions such as lubrication and preventing friction.
The 0w20 has a thickness grade of 0 in cold weather, making it a very light garage oil. The 5w20 has a thickness grade of 5, thus also a low differential, though not as light as the 0w20s.
A look at their flow in cold weather, we find that they both flow thinly, and the vehicle moves well. However, the 0w20 would flow better in very cold places than the 5w20.
0w20 vs. 5w20 Grade
Engine oil grades actually refer to the viscosity grades. We use eleven viscosity grades, from 0w to 25w, and then 20 to 60. The grades will provide a clue to the oils’ range of operation over different temperatures.
The two oils mentioned are multi-grade, meaning that they function in cool and hot temperatures. The zero in 0w20 means its design is at the 0w mark, and the W represented for winter. It means if you live in cold areas, it will be an excellent pick.
The 20 is for its operating heat. Next down the pecking order is the 5w20 oil, which also does well in cooler environments.
The values mean that the two oils will be less dense in low temperatures, which comes in handy, thus being good choices as oils that will move freely in the engine. That helps in heat sparring and preventing friction.
The 0w20 has a lower grade, meaning in maximal cold conditions, it will do better than the 5w20. As mentioned earlier, they work in high temperatures too, but not extreme temperatures.
0w20 vs. 5w20 Performance
When you look at each of the oils’ performances, you will notice that they’re almost similar. The 0w20 has a slight advantage. On this occasion, the temperatures are so cold. In this case, it’s very easy for the car to start as the oil will flow freely.
They have the same operating temperature, though. Both can work in high temperatures, but they do have a limit. In summary, both 0w20 and 5w20 perform their best in cold conditions.
0w20 vs 5w20 Fuel Economy
0w20 vs 5W20 fuel economy is another area where many people look to determine the best. To tell you the truth, when it comes to fuel economy, 0w20 and 5w20 are similar. While there might be a slight contrast in favor of the former, both ensure your fuel consumption nis earer the independent.
You see, their thinness simply translates to smooth and easy flow. Thus, now that most parts are to move, there is less reliance on much power from the engine to affect this movement.
0w20 vs 5w20 in price.
Another important area to pay attention to is the price of the 0w20 and 5w20. The prices might differ from supplier to supplier, but in most cases, you will find that this is not the case between the two stockists.
In other words, the price of 0w20 is slightly higher than the other. It is probably because of its top-grade efficiency in cold conditions. And you only need to look at these two multi-grade engine oils to discover that they are more expensive than most mono-grade types.
With that hefty price tag, you can justifiably deem the money well spent, as you are about to see in functionality.
Can I use 5w20 instead of 0w20?
Both of these oils are synthetic oils, which means they are made of artificial compounds, and this type of oil rocks in extreme temperatures.
These oils do the same thing, are made of the same components, but are not the same in their performance! For sure, neither oil is intended for hot weather, as indicated by the “W” in their names.
Put in another way, 0w20 with no viscosity will run smoother, in cold weather, in the cold way, than 5w20 with 5 viscosities, liquid resistance at flow.
So, can you substitute 0w20 for 5w20? Sure, but the latter will give you more resistance in its flow.
0w20 is probably the more preferred fuel option in temperatures below 32F, but 5w20 will also be functional. Your car manual is the final authority in such a case.
The answer will be the same, be it a question, “Can I use 5w20 instead of 0w20 Toyota?” Or a debate, “5w20 vs 0w20 Honda,” the answer will be the same.
FAQs
1. Can You Use 0W-20 Instead of 5W-20?
Ideally, you shouldn’t switch to oil with a different viscosity than the one recommended by your car manufacturer.
0W20 oil is more suitable for passenger cars, light-duty vans, SUVs, and newer vehicle models with turbocharged engines. On the other hand, the 5W20 oil is apt for hybrid modern engines, gasoline engines, small-sized trucks, and multi-valve fuel-injected engines.
2. Can You Mix 0W-20 and 5W-20 Oil?
Ideally, you shouldn’t mix oils of different viscosity ratings. Mixing can alter the engine oil’s ability to maintain the appropriate viscosity across different temperatures, leading to ineffective lubrication.
Additionally, 0W-20 and 5W-20 oils contain different viscosity modifiers and corrosion inhibitors that may be incompatible with each other.
3. What Happens if You Put the Wrong Oil in Your Engine?
Adding an oil of unsuitable viscosity can damage your car’s critical engine parts, reducing its reliability and lifespan. Your car’s fuel efficiency will also take a hit. If you accidentally add the 20 weight oil instead of the recommended thinner oil to your car, drain it immediately and get an oil change.
Remember, using a thicker or thinner oil than the one recommended can also void your car’s warranty.
4. What’s the Oil Change Interval for 0W-20 or 5W-20?
The oil change interval for vehicles using 0W-20 and 5W-20 is generally similar. You should change the oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles or every 6 to 12 months.
However, you should regularly check the oil level and top off as needed.
Final Word
Ow20 and 5w20 are among the most popular synthetic multi-grade engine oils. We take a close look at them in this article to have a better appreciation of their specifications and working. One thing you will figure out is that they are both quality oils that work better in cold surroundings.
0w20 even seems to be a better option in such environments because of its low viscosity. It works alright for smaller cars, while 5w20 goes well with light petrol and diesel engine vehicles like vans and so on.
Pick the right one among them depending on what the manufacturer recommends. Check on the API grade guide for an idea of oil grading.