Q: Can I use 5W20 oil instead of 5W40

asked by on May 17, 2017

The oil cap calls for 5W40 synthetic oil. I would like to know if 5W20 synthetic can be used?

My car has 38410 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

The quick answer is no you should not use 5w20 when 5w40 is recommended by manufacturer. The thinner oil may not lubricate the internal engine as designed. The turbo also needs synthetic oils to withstand the heat of the turbo.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What does the Brake Fluid Low message mean?
The Brake Fluid Low message can appear on your driver information center (DIC). When the DIC displays this alert, then your vehicle has detected that the fluid in your brake system is low. The brake system should be serviced as...
Kia Rio cranks but stutters, revs high but won't accelerate
This is not a common complaint and I would speculate the engine has a major vacuum leak or a mass air tube leak between the throttle body and the sensor. I can only recommend having a mechanic, like one from...
Rattling noise on a 2002 Honda Passport
It's a 14-year-old Honda Passport and if you hear rattling sounds, a lot of times it is those little stabilizers bolts where the sway bars go and keep the car nice and tight for cornering. On each side there will...
I have deep, thick layers of tar on my paint.
The easiest way to remove bug mess and tar from your paint is to lay a pre-treated wipe over the affected area and let it soak. This allows the chemicals to soak in and saturate the tar. Try rinsing off...
I replaced my starter, but my car still will not start and keeps blowing fuses
Hi there. I'm not sure what could have happened when the ignition was accidentally turned off while driving; typically, there should be no issue. The blown fuses (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuse-replacement) are an indication that a component(s) or the wiring in a given...
1 cylinder is down on compression 2005 Subaru Legacy
Hello - there are several possible causes of low compression (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-to-do-a-compression-test-by-robert-tomashek) on 1 cylinder only. Causes include: burned valve, worn piston rings (not common for a single cylinder), worn camshaft lobes (not allowing full air charging of the cylinder), valve...
Gear Shuffling Problem in Vauxhall Vectra 52 Registration
Hi there. We don't see a lot of Vauxhall Vectra's here in the United States, so unfortunately, we're not able to suggest a possible solution or cause of this problem you're experiencing. You should consult with a professional mechanic in...
My engine is misfiring.
Hi there. Check the injectors on the throttle body and see if they have a metered spray. If the injectors are spraying correctly, then there is a vacuum leak on the engine and is only effective when under a load...
rapid overheating
The most common causes of overheating include low coolant level, a faulty thermostat, a plugged radiator, a faulty radiator pressure cap, collapsed hoses, non functioning cooling fans, and a faulty water pump or drive belt. Certain engine faults, such as...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2010 Dodge Viper
2010 2010 was the last production year for the Dodge Viper before it took an extended leave of absence from the automaker’s lineup. It would debut once more in 2013. The 2010 Dodge Viper is a two-seat roadster (convertible) and...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re a Massage Therapist
If If you're a massage therapist, one of the cornerstones of your business has to be that you don’t keep your clients waiting. That means you need a vehicle that’s reliable. You also will have to move your gear, including...
How to Check the 5 Essential Fluids in Your Car
Checking your oil and adding engine coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid are essential for maintaining your car.