Last oil change I did it myself for the first time on my wife’s 06 Honda Odyssey. I used 5w-30, like I use in my Lexus, instead of the recommended 5w-20. This was the first time her car was switched to synthetic Mobil 1, but now the engine sounds louder and not smooth as usual. Did I do something…

I don’t think going from 5W-20 to 5W-30 would make the engine noisier or run less smoothly. If you aren’t imagining this, then something other than the viscosity of the oil is causing the engine to run noisier and less smoothly. Years ago, I had the engine become noisy on a 1985 Ford Tempo. The h…

I agree with Triedaq. If anything, switching to 5W-30 from 5W-20 would make the engine quieter.

The bearing clearances are designed for 20w oil and using heavier or higher viscosity oil will result in less flow to bearings. This may or may not affect bearing life and I do not think it will cause harm. But, why not drain oil and put in 20w and see if noise changes?

How cold will it get at your house this winter, scooter? If the temperature never drops below ZERO you are most likely OK. If the temperature never drops below freezing your engine my benefit from that grade.

I’m a mechanical engineer, and have an extensive background in engine lubrication system design for a major auto manufacturer (not Honda). I strongly recommend that you use the grade of oil recommended by the manufacturer. You may not be at risk of engine damage by using 5W-30… but then again it’s p…

Welcome, chilehed, to our forum. We routinely get questions on oil grades and on the differences between dino oil and synthetic oil, and your expertise will be a blessing.

@chilehead, don’t you think you may be overreacting? Millions of Ford owners put 5w30 in their vehicles without ill effect. And we know that 5w20 is called for.

db4690, I don’t think that the OP needs to panic, but I also don’t think I’m overreacting. It’s not really possible here to give an adequate explanation of why… my opinion is the bottom line of a lot of experience. Is it possible that you might be able to get away with using an off-spec oil? Sure. I…

As we beat this dead horse I remain curious regarding the manufacturer’s climate specific recommendations regarding oil. Whenever I have taken the time to dig beyond the obvious I have found that manufacturers have temperature/viscosity charts that are relatively equal with respect to the most popul…

Las Oil Change I used 5w-30 instead of 5w-20

Maintenance/Repairs

Triedaq January 2, 2013, 4:44am 4

I had the opposite happen once–5W-20 was put in the car instead of the specified 5W-30. It was in the winter when this happened. I didn’t think it would hurt anything. We even made a 700 mile road trip. I kept my eye on the oil level, but none was used. In your situation, I am certain that nothing bad will happen due to putting in 5W-30 oil. At your next oil change, just put in the 5W-20.

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Las Oil Change I used 5w-30 instead of 5w-20

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