For the proper functioning of your car, it is advisable to choose the correct type of oil viscosity for your vehicle. If there are some circumstances and you want to know if can you mix 0w20 and 5w20.
The answer for mixing is Yes; both oils can be mixed because of their characteristics and compatibilities in a moderate environment.
Although mixing is possible, but this mixing shouldn’t be encouraged due to the potential impact on the engine and additional wear on pistons and valves.
Table of Contents
Compatibility of 0w20 and 5w20 Oil
Both 0w20 vs 5w20 are good in compatibility. Let’s explore those factors that make them more compatible and easy to mix.
1. Viscosity
Both oils show the same viscosity level in fair weather conditions and standard engine temperatures and run accordingly.
Both of these oils possess low viscosity levels in most situations, so they are beneficial for optimizing engine performance and fuel consumption.
Although they will show some minor differences in the start, as 0w20 will show more fluidity than 5w20, their viscosity becomes compatible after a regular interval.
2. High-Quality Oil Grade
Both 0w20 and 5w20 are multi-graded oils, which directly impact the optimization of fuel economy.
0w20 is a full synthetic oil, while 5w20 is semi-synthetic oil. So mixing both oils won’t have that much impact on the car’s normal functioning.
3. Operating Temperature
Considering their characteristics and thickness levels, you will see both oils work efficiently at the same operating temperature up to -22°F to 68 °F.
The W in 0w20 and 5w20 oils indicate their compatibility to work in colder environments.
In the high temperature, you’ll see a similar level of performance from both, in terms of sludge resistance and cleanliness of the engine.
However, if the difference is there, it will be too slight to notice, so these 0w20 and 5w20 are compatible regarding their standard temperature.
Factors to Consider While Mixing 0w20 and 5w20
1. Warranty
Make sure to go through the warranty documents before blending both oils.
If the warranty is still applicable, it is advised not to mix them because it will create a potential void on your vehicle warranty, which will have consequences in the future. So, it’s better to remain on the safe side.
If the warranty is over, you can go for it without a second thought.
Manufacturer’s recommendation
It’s better to consult with the guidelines recommended by the manufacturers. The recommendation mentions the best viscosity oils and their compatibility in a listed form, so go through it before making the final decision.
Toyota manufacturers suggest mixing 0w20 and 5w20 oils in essential circumstances.
Viscosity modifiers
It is recommended to check that both oils have compatible viscosity modifiers because they help stabilize the mixed oil viscosity of both oils.
If modifiers are different, there will be potential harm to the engine, impacting the lubrication of the critical parts.
Temperature
You should check whether both oils are adequately heated or not. Upon checking, if both oils are warm enough to blend, you must not worry more and mix them.
This warm temperature will make them close around 28 weight, which is compatible with both oils.
2. Benefits Of Mixing 5w20 and 0w20
If we talk honestly, no significant benefits emerge after this mixing. However, certain aspects could be considered:
Customized Viscosity
After mixing the 5w20 and 0w20, the newly customized viscosity will be made from the existing viscosity of both oils. This will be a factor in maintaining the hotter and colder environment balance.
Price Saving
If you’re looking to spend less on the engine oils and aren’t looking for the quality, then you can go for this mixing, as this would save you from spending extra money on buying separate oils and the requirements.
3. Possible Drawbacks
If you have concerns and are confused about what happens after mixing both oils and potential drawbacks. Let’s find out for you.
Minimized Engine Performance
Mixing 0w20 and 5w20 oils, having different characteristics, may not provide enough lubrication to the engine parts, impacting the performance.
Mainly, mixing 5w20 into 0w20 at a lower temperature, like -30*C, harms the engine of 0w20 due to incompatible modifiers and additives of 5w20.
Throughout oil changes, if you make oil blending a regular practice, your car engine will surely start to minimize its functionality due to the changed viscosity level and efficiency.
More Fuel Consumption
The vehicles are designed to work under a certain viscosity level for better fuel economy.
However, when there’s an impact on the engine’s efficiency when mixing the oils, your car will automatically consume more fuel than usual.
Improper Blending
While topping 5w20 and 0w20, there are possible chances that these two oils won’t mix properly.
Ocassionly, Both oils will not blend in the parts and remain stuck to the side parts of the engine or gun. As 0w20 is thinner than 5w20, it will not adequately mix with 5w20 at a colder temperature, like 35*C, failing to blend.
This improper blending will have consequences on the engine performance.
Incompatible Additives
Sometimes, incompatible additives might be included in both oils, which could have dark effects on the engine parts.
It might slide off the remaining elements or purities from the engine, which are being left by the regular oil.
When Mixing 0w20 and 5w20 Oil is Recommended
If oil mixing is a must, then there are certain factors in which blending of 5w20 and 0w20 is recommended. Read on to find out.
1. Lower Quantity of 5w20
It is highly suggested that both oils shouldn’t be blended if 5w20 is in the higher volume, so try to ensure that 5w20 is adequately drained and has little volume compared to 0w20.
Because 5w20 is thicker, keeping it low is necessary for adequately blending oils.
2. Moderate Temperature
Mix oil composition at a moderate temperature, where both oils can be blended easily.
Otherwise, you’ll probably see blending failure, improper lubrication, sludgy engine parts, and inefficient engine performance due to the colder temperature.
3. Immediate situation
When you are stuck in a situation where you have no option other than mixing these 0w20 and 5w20 oils, you can top up both oils temporarily.
Make sure to do the oil change after returning to normal for the optimal and smooth performance of the vehicle.
Conclusion
All the required information is given above on whether can you mix 0w20 and 5w20.
If you have accidentally add 5w20 to 0w20 and are panicking, don’t worry and enjoy your ride, as there will not be any immediate reaction to that mixing.
Still, it is highly recommended to use this mixing option in emergencies rather than making it a regular practice. So be mindful and change the oil sequence after returning to normal circumstances.
You should consult with OEM recommendations or the nearest technician if there will be any severe issues after mixing the oil, but this will most likely not happen.
Read next: Can I use 0w20 instead of 5w20?
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