Can I Use 5w30 Instead Of 5w20 In My Jeep?

Every vehicle has a particular oil recommended for its engine, but can I use 5w30 instead of 5w20 in my jeep? Yes, you can but you may notice a slight difference in performance if 5w30 oil is not specified for your jeep.

If you use another oil on the engine, it can cause a significant drop in your car’s performance, and in worse scenarios, it could damage the engine. Yes, modern cars are highly sophisticated than ever, and highly computerized too.

The computer can detect when you use the wrong oil and would send wrong signals to other parts of the car; thus, causing unusual occurrences, and possibly damages.

But, this is not to scare you; you could actually mix motor oils, or use certain oils instead of another. You just need to know the possible consequences of using another oil on your car – in this case, your Jeep.

How is 5w30 Difference From 5w20?

The difference between these two oils is not too significant. If you look closely, you’d notice they have the same “First” number – 5 – the difference is in the last number (after the “W”).

Now, what do these numbers mean, and how do you make a perfect choice from these oils?

Firstly, the numbers represent the “Weight” of these oils at different temperatures – hot and cold. The first number is the weight at “Cold” temperatures, while the last is the “Weight” at hot temperatures.

So, these oils have the same weight at cold temps but have different weights at high temps. Now, that is the difference – their weight in high temps is what distinguishes between these two oils.

However, while this difference may seem insignificant, you really should choose carefully between these two motor oils for the sake of your engine.

At cold temperatures (or in cold seasons like Winter or Autumn), the 5w30 and 5w20 oil will flow at the same rate. But, if the temperature gets high, the oils would flow differently, and that’s where you need to pay attention.

5w20 oils are liable to thin out in extremely high temps, but the 5w30 would still flow evenly at such temps. The 5w20 oil has less viscosity for high temps than 5w30; so, if you live in areas where the temps can get so high, it’d be better to go with 5w30.

But, what’s recommended in your owner’s manual? Apparently, every automaker recommends the exact type/weight of oil to use on each model of their cars in the owner’s manual.

While the particular oil recommended in your owner’s manual may not sit well with you, it’s advisable to stick with that so you don’t void the warranty on your new car.

Read Also: Can I Use 10w30 Instead Of 5w30?

Can I Use 5w30 Instead Of 5w20 In My Jeep?

Yes, pouring 5w30 into an engine specified for 5w20 would not cause any harm. However, depending on your car model, you may notice a drop in performance.

Also, the manufacturer that specified 5w20 has a reason for that. Most modern engines are designed to run with lighter motor oils. So, using thicker oil may cause damage to the seals and other engine components.

Notwithstanding, many drivers out there aren’t using the oil specified by their vehicles’ makers, yet their cars seem to be working just fine.

Yes, this is because, oils are made with additives, and somehow, certain aftermarket oils seem to have more beneficial additives to unlock your engine’s performance than genuine/OEM oils.

So, the main point is this; you can use 5w30 instead of 5w20 for your Jeep and not notice any significant change in how your engine works.

Nevertheless, if you notice unusual signs after pouring 5w30, it’s advisable to drain it completely and continue with the recommended 5w20. Again, when buying motor oils, you should be careful of the brand you patronize.

What More?

Some people go to the extent of mixing 5w30 and 5w20; while this may not cause instant damage to an engine, mixing motor oils can make an engine break down earlier than expected.

5w20 or 5w30 can be used instead of the other, but it’s advisable to stick with the specified one for your engine.

However, if the brand recommended by your automaker sells 5w20 at an expensive price, you can find good universal equivalents that meet the specifications of the OEM-recommended 5w20. Usually, universal motor oils are cheaper.

Read Also: Can I Use 5w30 Instead Of 5w20 In My Ford?