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Different automakers recommend specific motor oils for their various engine models, and if you use a different oil, you’d void the warranty coverage.
Well, sticking with the OEM-recommended lubricant can be very expensive; hence, some drivers seek good (cheaper) alternatives they could use on their vehicles.
Talking about 5w30 and 5w20; these oils are closely significant, but of course, they differ in certain aspects. So, can i use 5w30 instead of 5w20 in my Ford?
Actually, using a different oil for your engine won’t break it down, but can cause a significant drop in performance.
For example, the 2008 Ford Fusion has 5w20 specifications, and according to Ford, “5W-20 provides optimum fuel economy and durability” for 2008 Fusion engines.
What’s The Difference Between 5w30 and 5w20?
Basically, the difference is in the flow at high temperatures. Both 5w30 and 5w20 engine oils would flow at the same rate at cold temperatures.
But when the temperature increases rapidly, 5w30 would survive while 5w20 is likely to thin out.
There’s no much difference between these oils – even if you bought them from different stores and they’re made by different brands.
The most common reason people shy away from using other oils for their engines is due to warranty concerns.
You’re most definitely not risking any serious engine damage scenario when you switch motor oils.
Can I Use 5w30 Instead Of 5w20 In My Ford?
What you’d see on most Ford cars owners’ manuals with 5w20 specifications is thus, “5W-20 oil provides optimum fuel economy and durability performance…”
Ford also mentions that 5w20 meets all the requirements for its vehicle’s engine to function well. You shouldn’t let this notice stop you from switch your engine oil; here’s what you should know.
Yes, you can use 5w30 instead of 5w20 in your ford car. In fact, according to many drivers and mechanics on different forums (including Bob is The Oil Guy), 5w30 is actually a better multi-grade oil to use on engines with “5w” specifications.
From different perspectives, the 5w30 looks to be a better option. However, auto manufacturers – in other to get certain market approvals – specify a particular type of oil for their vehicles in different regions.
If you bought a new car and the oil specification is 5w20 but you’ve got some gallons of 5w30 in your garage, it is okay to fill the 5w30 – nothing would happen to your engine.
Can I Use 5w30 Instead Of 5w20 In My Ford F150?
Can i Use 5w30 Instead Of 5w20 In My Ford F150? All Ford F15 pickup trucks are specified to use either 5w20 or 5w30 motor oil. They all need thin oils regardless of the model you won.
However, the exact recommendation for each model is clearly stated in the owners’ manuals. Ford F150 is one of the most popular pickup trucks in the USA, and this is not unconnected to its reliability and solid design.
Ford officially endorses Motorcraft oils for its F150 models, but practically, any American Petroleum Institute (API) approved SWA 5w20 or 5w30 would work just fine on your Ford pickup.
Since Ford approved 5w30 and 5w20 for its F150 series, it implies you can use either of these motor oils on your Ford pickup truck. But then, depending on the year and make of your pickup truck, you may actually need to stick to either 5w30 or 5w20.
Yes, both of these oils are pretty similar and have almost the same viscosity rating. But the 5w30 is slightly thicker and liable to perform better than 5w20 in high temps. Should this be a concern to you? Yes, somehow, it should.
What Happens When You Use 5w30 On A 5w20 Engine
There’s nothing to be afraid of, your engine would still function very well. However, the warranty on your car would be voided. If you’re not too concerned about the warranty coverage, then you’re all good to go.
Notwithstanding, it is important to note that modern cars are highly computerized.
If you use a different oil rather than what’s specified in your owners’ manual, your car’s computer system may detect that and send wrong/warning signals to other components.
This action can trigger the check engine light to come on, or you may start noticing different unusual signs.
Furthermore, when you switch to new oil, stick to that oil for a long time. Don’t use different oils at oil changes, else, you may actually trigger a fatal engine breakdown.
Motor oils are made with different additives meant to offer different benefits to the engine.
If you keep mixing or switching oils, your engine won’t be getting enough of those additives, and constant commotion of those chemical additives can lead to serious damage.
Final Words
It’s safe to use 5w30 in place of 5w20; both oils offer almost the same performance in cold and hot temperatures. If it’s the summer season, 5w30 is the better option to choose.
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