Motor oil is known as the heart and soul of your car’s engine, so you should choose a type of this product that is suitable for your vehicle and does not cause any disruption in its performance. In this article from SaadNews, we will discuss the consequences of pouring 20w50 motor oil instead of 10w40 in your car. Stay with us.
Motor oils are produced in various weights, grades, or viscosities, and one of the most common oils for consumer vehicles is 10W-40 motor oil. This name refers to the oil's viscosity within different temperature ranges, which should be selected based on your location or the area you're planning to travel to.
Can you use 20W50 motor oil instead of 10W40? The type of oil you should use depends on the season, vehicle type, driving speed, and more. If you use 10W40 in a vehicle that requires 20W50 for an extended period, the oil can damage the engine. The car will begin to lose power and will not lubricate as intended. Different oils have unique flow characteristics and different viscosities.
Pouring 20W50 instead of 10W40 and using the wrong oil can cause leaks and engine noise. Additionally, using oil with insufficient viscosity for winter or cold temperatures, less than what the manufacturer recommends, will prevent the vehicle from starting in cold weather.
Final thoughts: Some mechanics might recommend using 20W50 or 10W40 as part of regular service schedules, regardless of the vehicle type you're driving. You should always follow the guidelines in your owner's manual to determine the most suitable oil for your engine and take note of your mechanic's advice, as they have more experience with vehicles and engine issues.
