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.
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 | Manufacturer recommendations, but typically meant for longer intervals due to better fuel efficiency and engine protection. | 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 examined above, you have had a look from 10,000 miles up. But to actually dig into the nitty-gritty of the argument, you must go much further down into the differences between oils.
One big difference you find is in the naming. ‘W’ means winter, which means both oils are perfect for use in cold temperatures. The two numbers refer to their thickness/viscosity at different conditions.
The first number refers to their viscosity when cold, while the last number after the letter is their viscosity at operating temperature. The number letter arrangement is in accordance with the ‘SAE’ grade standard. These grades oils according to their thickness.
In the case of 0w20, for example, is that oil can be used in cold temperatures. The 0 is the viscosity at low temperatures, while the 20 is the actual viscosity at operating temperature.
Having brought the 20w into the equation, you see the main variation is in viscosity when cold. Otherwise, they are thickness in operating temperature. The 0w is viscosity in low temperatures (which means it performs better). The two oils are high-quality and will work in high temperatures, but not extreme.
What of 0w30 oils vs. 0w20? Is the 0w30 winter oil very much, meaning ideal in both low and high temperatures? The same as the 5w20 vs. 5w30. Where the first is high-performance oil, used extensively in light petrol and diesel engines. Many auto manufacturers recommend the 0w20 and 5w20. 5w30 and 0w30 work in high temperatures. 5w20 and 0w20 work 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
Can I Substitute 0W20 For 5W20?
You can replace the 5w20 with 0w20, in case you also desire the 0w20 advantage in cooler conditions. Moving from the 5w20 to this other form gives you a benefit to the engine, allowing it to start easier in a cooler environment.
However, you might want to consider using the 5w20 in place of the other kind. Otherwise, it would affect performance since there is variance in viscosity in winter conditions.
What Is 0W20 Oil Used For?
The 0w20 oil is widely used, especially in small to medium-sized cars. You will also notice that many American auto manufacturers and their counterparts in Europe and Japan recommend it due to how effective it is, especially since you reside in the cool areas.
0w20 vs 5w20 rules with the Honda Accord will take you to the discovery that most small and newer cars use the former instead of the latter.
Will 0W20 Hurt a 5W30 Engine?
Before you use the 0w20 and 5w30 combo, spare some time to check the oil specs of your car manufacturer so that you know if you are on the right track.
The 0w20 can help the engine in cooler areas, but it does not help it out in warmer regions. You should stick to the oil specified by the manufacturer of your vehicle.
Is 5W20 Good For Winter?
The 5w20 is a low viscosity engine oil, so it is thinner in colder areas. It carries out duties such as curbing friction and dissipating heat to pretty good standards. It is one of the best oils to be used in the cooler areas.
How Long Does 0W20 Oil Last?
0w20 is a synthetic oil that has set a name for lengthy service. If you use 0w20, you will need an oil change when you clock 8000-10000 miles.
Other cars might even manage the service life to 15,000 miles. Oil changes will protect your engine from worn parts and poor fuel consumption.
Is 0W20 Oil Too Thin?
0w20 is thin oil or thinner; less viscous. It’s synthetic oil and thinner than most, if not all, oils, a factor that is ideal for harsh winters.
It means that this oil will still flow, and if you use this oil, you might realize that starting your vehicle is a piece of cake.
Which Is Better, 0w20 or 5w30?
0w20 vs. 5w30, which of these is a better oil? Both oils are good performers, though depends on the external conditions. 0w20 is one of low viscosity and is better in winter and cold surroundings.
5w30 also works well under cold conditions; however, not to the levels of 0w20. But, it works fine under not very hot and hot temperatures, hence it has the upper hand over 0w20.
Can I Switch From 5W30 To 0W20?
Switching from 5w30 to 0w20 is a move many people make to tap the good side of the latter oil, being of low viscosity.
While you can switch the oils, be keen on the manufacturer’s instructions just to be on the safe side and avoid hitches in your vehicle.
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.