Engine oils are important fluids that make cars work smoothly. While most drivers use specific engine oil for their cars, others mix engine oil for different reasons. Cars cannot perform well if their engines lack enough oil.
Also, oil types determine how efficient and for how long your car can perform. There are three types of oil: Synthetic oil, non-synthetic oil, and conventional oil, the ones your use depends on your car engine.
The question then is, can you mix 5w30 and 5w40 oil? Let’s look at what both oils can do, the differences, and what to expect when you mix both oils.
What is 5w30 oil?
5w30 oil is engine oil that many drivers use because of its thickness. The ‘w’ before it indicates winter and the number after shows the oil viscosity at any temperature level when the car engine is running.
The 5w30 oil has a winter viscosity level of five, which means it can perform at low temperatures compared to oils like 10w40. Its Viscosity grade is 30 and is used in many Western countries.
What is 5w40 oil?
The 5w40 motor oil helps your car engine to perform efficiently and also reduces car parts overheating from friction. The 5w40 oil helps in transferring heat from the combustion system and keeps the engine neat by burning all by-products.
This motor oil protects the engine from oxidation processes. The 5w40 oil has an operating viscosity level of 12.5 to 16.4mm3/s. The oil is mainly used by European cars that have gas-powered engines and American diesel vehicles.
Can I mix 5w30 and 5w40 oil?
Yes, you can mix 5w30 and 5w40 motor oils because some viscosity grades are compatible. Drivers with low oil can also mix them to top up their oil. However, you should find out if your car engine can accept both oils.
Generally, you shouldn’t have any side effects by mixing 5w30 with 5w40 oil, but make sure they are from the same oil brands. Furthermore, when you mix both oils, a new viscosity will be produced that is different from the manufacturer’s specifications, so adjust correctly with this new viscosity level immediately.
What differentiates 5w30 and 5w40 motor oil?
Here are some differences between these two oils:
- While they are both motor oils, their viscosity differs.
- 5w30 works better than 5w40 oil with car engines because it has a thicker solution.
- The 5w30 oil performs well irrespective of the temperature in the area. However, the 5w40 oil is better in cold temperatures.
- 5w30 oil is a more costly motor oil than 5w40, which is more affordable.
- The 5w40 oil can be purchased easily from stores, while the 5w30 is scarce to find.
What will happen if the 5w30 is mixed with the 5w40 oil?
While there is a certain result when both oils are mixed, drivers who are low on oil can mix both oils to power up their car. This mixture can still offer proper lubrication and viscosity to all internal parts of your car. However, for peace of mind, it is ideal to purchase an engine oil that matches the weight of your vehicle.
But, for drivers who like experiments and would love mixing both oils, it isn’t recommended. “But you just said it is possible to mix both oils?”. Yes, however, it is only suggested for emergencies only.
Car oils are made from accurate recipes. Mixing two or more oils of different viscosity would create an unstable ratio different from the engine specifications.
Moreover, it could also affect engine performance negatively. Let’s look at these factors:
Additive Formula
All motor oils have a unique formula with different additives for a single purpose. These additives are put in place to ensure the efficiency, performance, and cleanliness of your vehicle’s engine. Mixing motor oils can change some of these properties and the results are unpredictable.
Motor Oil Mixture Instability
Intentionally mixing oils of different viscosity will produce a new viscosity that might be too thick or thin to grease all car parts. The engine oil is a critical part of car care and you shouldn’t gamble with its performance.
If you are toying with the idea of adding oil to another, ensure it is from the same brand. This will make sure there won’t be additional oil additives and it’s on a perfect ratio.
Conclusion
Choosing the right motor oil is important if you want your car engine to perform well without problems. While mixing the 5w30 and 5w40 oil is possible, it isn’t ideal because of additives composition. However, in emergencies and for top-up reasons, you can mix both oils.