Thread: SAE 10W-20 vs 10W-30

Manual says 5W30. Went to Walmart last night after work to pick up the 4L jugs for 10.99. I'll look for a new mech...

I used to own a 1998 Altima. The manufacturer's recommendation is to use 5w30 oil all year or 10w30 and even 10w40 if you live in a hotter climate such as southern USA Check your owner's manual for the best advice. Don't listen to anyone else.

Quote: Originally Posted by nyik So, if 10w30 is more viscous than 10w20, isn't 10w20 "better" than 10w30? ie less resistence? No, my mech told me to use 10w20 . There used to be a time (back in the old days...yes my days), you changed the oil summer and winter. Less viscous in winter and thicker in summer. The principal was the same then as it is now. The difference was back then, you used to get 20 weight, 30 weight,...

Quote: Originally Posted by nyik So, if 10w30 is more viscous than 10w20, isn't 10w20 "better" than 10w30? ie less resistence? If you go by that definition of "better" then why not pour in skim milk instead? It's less viscous than any of these Forget about what your mechanic told you, what does the owner's manual for the vehicle say?

I didn't think I've ever seen 10W20 grade oil anywhere?

Quote: Originally Posted by KorruptioN I didn't think I've ever seen 10W20 grade oil anywhere? +1, I don't remember ever seeing any consumer grade car stuff. There's 10W20 racing oil, but it's not for street cars. Also 10W20 oil for motorcycles.