Anybody here use 0W-30 Viscosity?

[ricamryman]

While in Walmart today, I noticed that Mobil-1 makes a 5-Qt., jug of
0W-30 weight! I am thinking that maybe this oil will be much better during the cold starts in the morning+ return greater fuel ecomony! I have a 93 V6.
What are your thoughts on this oil for our cars?.......

[92Squiggy]

You shouldnt use anything other than the specified 5w-30 or 10w-30 depending on weather in the Camry. I tried 5w20 in my 1992 last fall and the oil light went on after about 2 miles of driving. Apparently the oil was too "thin" for the car to recognize and was giving it problems.

[AlmightyCamry777]

Originally Posted by 92Squiggy

You shouldnt use anything other than the specified 5w-30 or 10w-30 depending on weather in the Camry. I tried 5w20 in my 1992 last fall and the oil light went on after about 2 miles of driving. Apparently the oil was too "thin" for the car to recognize and was giving it problems.

Yes. He's right. I wouldn't use any grade not approved by the manufacturer. Toyota does not specify the approved grades for no reason, sometimes it can be based on a lot of considerations about the engine. the oil pump, oil passage diameter in the block, even the oil pressure relief valve depend on the fact that you use what oil they say to use. It may be unlikely but using a 0weight oil when its not recommended might do more harm then good to your engine.

If you want better starting, etc. then maybe try a synthetic oil of the proper weight. conventional oil does often thin out under hard use or extended oil change intervals - but a synthetic oil will most likely stay the same viscosity in between changes (one of the reasons they invented it in the first place).

[csaxon]

ILSAC GF–4 ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATION – EG018-06 March 29, 2006
ILSAC GF–4 SAE 5W–20 Minimum recommended by Toyota for all 1MZ-fe and VZ series engines.
NOTE:
DO NOT use these oils in engines other than those listed above. These low–viscosity
oils cannot maintain lubrication effectiveness in engines with older designs and could
result in smoke emissions from the tailpipe and/or unusual engine noise.

[Stillrunning]

I have used Mobil1 0w-30 now for about 2 years. Mobil states "Exceeds 5w-30 and 10w-30 warranty requirements". During the initial use of this oil I performed used oil analysis with very good results. My oil change intervals are 1yr/6k with a new filter and top up at 3k. Can't speak for the V6 but don't know why it would be any different. I would recommend used oil analysis (about $20) with your present grade/brand to establish a base of comparison then do a couple with the 0w-30. I don't bother too much with MPG calculations so I can't vouch for the gas saving.

[hill8570]

I've never felt the need (it doesn't get all that cold here in the banana belt), but you could try it with an oil pressure gauge installed in place of the oil light sender. If the oil pressure stays well within spec, then you'd probably be OK.

Not sure if 92Squiggy's experience was unique to his engine, but the oil light doesn't come on until the oil pressure is dangerously low, not just a smidge low. Not a good sign. Of course, he was also using 5W20 -- 20 at the hot end is awfully thin for a warmed up engine, especially an older engine with larger-than-factory clearances.

IMHO, it seems sort of pointless, 'tho -- a decent 10W30 synthetic already has excellent flow characteristics at low temps.

[Stillrunning]

Originally Posted by hill8570

I've never felt the need (it doesn't get all that cold here in the banana belt),

Good point. Here in NC we do get some low temps in winter. My summer results 90*+, are very good.

could try it with an oil pressure gauge installed in place of the oil light sender. If the oil pressure stays well within spec, then you'd probably be OK.

I have an Autometer mechanical gauge and the oil pressure exceeds idle spec and runs well within the 3k spec range.

[chronoti]

toyota new 1mz spec is 5w-20 year round
3mz/2az is 0w-20 ...... had no problems with 0w-20,

[llcoolpass]

i use mobil 1 , 0w-40

[Stillrunning]

Originally Posted by llcoolpass

i use mobil 1 , 0w-40

At first I tried the 0w-40, as I use that in a 4x4 I have, but I found a noticable struggle and momentary rattle on initial cold start with the Camry so I went with the -30 and have good smooth start-ups.

[llcoolpass]

but I have 3vz-fe, a different engine than you. so does the person who started this thread and to whom I replied.

[sk8ersublime]

doesnt the oil cap say 5w-30? where are you seeing 5w-20?

[Stillrunning]

Originally Posted by llcoolpass

so does the person who started this thread and to whom I replied.

Testy? I guess if you want to get technical he wasn't asking about 0w-40. But since you seem to want to help maybe you can tell him why you think 0w-40 is better and how it has helped your engine over the spec'd oil with your UOA's to back up your choice.

[1994camryle]

I use 10w 40



works fine

[llcoolpass]

stillrunning,

not testy or anything emotional. just being exacting. sorry if you took offense.

i picked that oil because it has high zinc additive like they used to put in motor oil until recently. i'd ellaborate, but i have to go bring in my car parts because its starting to snow.