5w30 vs 5w40: Which is Better & Outforms Better?
Most of us can’t figure out the right one in a juxtaposition of 5w30 vs 5w40. And when it is about the lubrication of engine parts, avoiding the important terms will not be a wise option. If 5w30 oil fulfills in some conditions, 5w40 lacks there and the same goes for the other.
Where 5w30 oil works best in low temperatures, 5w40 oil outperforms in high temperatures. In similarity, 5w40 contains more viscosity compared to 5w30 and grants more thickness. And talking about the quality, none of them is less than each other.
So what makes them different? And which one can be your better alternative to choose? If you want to pick your oil that matches with your conveniences then have a look at my article.
5w30 vs 5w40: Comparison Table
| Comparison Parameters | 5w30 | 5w40 |
| Kinematic viscosity[mm2/s] | 11.1 at 100° C and 64.2 at 40° C | 14.443 at 100 °C and 90.903 at 40 °C |
| Viscosity Index | 167 | 176 |
| Low Shear Rate Viscosity | 9.3 at 100° C min | 12.5 to 16.3 mm2/s at 100g |
| High Shear Rate Viscosity | 2.9 at 150° C and 10s – 1 min | 3.5 at 150g |
| Temperature Range | -25° C to 25° C | -25 °C to 35 °C |
| Density[g/cm3] | 0.85 g/cm3 | 848.3 kg/m³ |
| Price | $44.79 | $140.02 |
| Thickness | 3.5mPas | |
| Oil Flow | Flows well in cold | Flows well in cold |
Which Oil Is Thicker 5w30 or 5w40?
5w30 oil has a working viscosity of 9.3 to 12.5mm2/s and 5w40 has the working viscosity of 12.5 to 16.3mm2/s.
Thus, it is apparent that 5w40 oil has more viscosity compared to 5w30. And if you are looking for a smooth flow and quick lubrication, 5w30 will be the best option for you. That is because, the more viscosity, the more thickness which 5w30 oil avoids in consideration.
5w30 Vs 5w40 High Mileage
5w30 is a good option when it is about lubricating in different types of vehicles in a different temperature range. You will get the best results from this oil in winter because of the colder temperature.
In the same way, 5w40 serves its best in hot temperatures. The manufacturers often recommend this oil to use in high mileage where the engine sands set warmer.
5w30 Vs 5w40 Fuel Consumption
5w30 oil ranks more in fuel economy compared to 5w40 oil. The reason is, 5w30 works extremely fine with multiple engines with its lower viscosity.
And based on the fuel economy, 5w30 wins the race in terms of performance. On the other hand, 5w40 will not be as great as 5w30 regarding fuel consumption.
5w30 Vs 5w40 Hot Weather
The lower viscosity of 5w30 oil is 5 and the higher viscosity is 30. Similarly, 5w40 oil indicates the lower viscosity of 5 and higher viscosity of 40. Always keep in mind, the more the viscosity of an oil, the more is its thickness and weight.
As 5w30 oil has lower viscosity, it will be suitable to use in both lower and hot temperatures. And we can see that, 5w40 has more viscosity than 5w30. That means, it will not be suitable for use in all temperatures.
5w30: Main Features
The main functions of a motor oil are wear reduction and friction reduction. But that is not where it ends. There are more features that you will get from a 5w30 engine oil.
Transfer Energy
We know, lubricants are incompressible and thus acts like an energy transfer. For example- valve filters and hydraulic equipment.
Prevent Corrosion
One of the prime features that you will find in 5w30 oil is the minimization of internal component corrosion. It neutralizes the corrosive products and forms a barrier between those components.
Dampen Shock
This 5w30 engine oil cushions the blow of mechanical shock and resists the rupture profoundly. As a result, it disperses the energy strike and reduces the damaging forces.
What Is 5w30 Oil Used For?
5w30 oil suits well for a wide range of variety when it comes about vehicles and engines. It gains a viscosity range which is defined to seal, lubricate, and protect the internal components of the engine in any climate condition.
5w30 Oil Is Used For Which Cars?
You can use 5w30 oil in your diesel engines and light-duty petrol. Cars like SUVs are more appreciable when it comes about the recommendation of manufacturers.
5w30 Specification
- Kinematic viscosity[mm2/s] : 11.1 at 100° C and 64.2 at 40° C
- Viscosity Index : 167
- Low Shear Rate Viscosity : 9.3 at 100° C min
- High Shear Rate Viscosity : 2.9 at 150° C and 10s – 1 min
- Temperature Range : -25° C to 25°
- Density[g/cm3] : 0.85 g/cm3
- Oil Flow : Flows well in cold
Top 5 5W30 Oil Review In 2022
| Products | Descriptions |
| AmazonBasics 5w30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil | Best for longer drain intervals Do not let any build-ups to take place Prevents against rust and corrosion Budges out the sudden frictions Gives less engine wear |
| Castrol 03057 GTX MAGNATEC 5W-30 | A relevant synthetic oil for engines Reduces engine wear and improves performance Adapts well with the critical engine parts Gives superior wear protection Holds an outstanding quality |
| Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil | Provides 50% more wear protection than others Assures excellent protection at high and low temperature Fights against deposits and sludge Minimizes breakdown in extreme conditions |
| Pennzoil – Platinum Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil | Does delivery faster in low temperatures Protects engine even at an extreme heat Provides unsurpassed wear protection Gives unbeatable wear protection Keeps engines free from deposits |
| Royal Purple 51530 High Performance Motor Oil 5W-30 | Prevents metal to metal contact certainly Ensures optimized fuel efficiency Helps to reduce low-speed ignitions Works well even in critical lubrication Minimizes harmful effects and exhaust emissions |
1. AmazonBasics 5w30 Full Synthetic Motor Oil
If you are looking for an effective 5w30 motor oil, AmazonBasics has just covered you. Moreover, you can take it as the manufacturer’s recommendation for the manual of your vehicle.
And guess what? You can use this oil for longer drain intervals since the formulation suits it that way.
Most of the time we can see several build-ups which causes rust and corrosion in engines. But don’t worry when you have AmazonBasics Synthetic Oil.
Because it features all ways in preventing such filths and makes sure your vehicle performs up to the mark.
Also, sudden frictions will budge out from your engine due to this oil and give less engine wear.
A thermal breakdown and high resistance to viscosity is all what the product stands for. Other than that, it will help to reduce exhaust emissions and will not let any hindrance come to your engine.
2. Castrol 03057 GTX MAGNATEC 5W-30
Castrol 03057 is an amazing option to have when it comes to choosing a relevant synthetic oil for your engine.
Moreover, we need such oil for the engine which can reduce engine wear dramatically and improve performance at a time.
Sometimes it becomes hard for oils to adapt with the critical engine parts and lubricate smoothly. But that will not be the case when you will be using Castrol 03057 in your vehicle.
Here, you will get superior wear protection even on critical engine parts and immense good quality.
The product recommends the use of Bosch oil filters by meeting the specifications of SN Plus, ILSAC GF-5, GM dexos1 Gen 2, Ford WSS-M2C929-A, WSS-M2C946-B1.
3. Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic SAE 5W-30 Motor Oil
Valvoline Full Synthetic Motor Oil contains innovative anti-wear additives which provide wear protection 50% more than any industry standard.
This confirmation comes from Sequence IVA wear test. And what comes to mind first is, if the oil will give excellent protection in high and low temperatures or not.
In that regard, Valvoline serves best with effective features of full synthetic formula. Moreover, you will get some extra detergents in this oil that help to fight deposits and sludge in motors.
And don’t worry about the breakdown which takes place in extreme conditions. Because, the superior antioxidants are going to resist your engine against them in a full proof way.
4. Pennzoil – Platinum Full Synthetic 5W-30 Motor Oil
Pennzoil Platinum offers extreme performance in high temperature and delivers faster in low temperature.
And if you are thinking about protection at extreme heat, that is also inevitable due to the synthetic formula here.
Also, this oil will provide unsurpassed wear protection against friction uncompromisingly. The natural gas of this oil gets converted into base oil because of the revolutionary process of gas to liquid.
And the essence that this oil holds is the unbeatable engine protection. So, whether you are racing to go home or at Daytona, Pennzoil Platinum will leave no stone unturned in revealing its supremacy.
Until your engine remains free from deposits, there will be no chance of getting high performance from it. This oil will support on that term and keep your pistons cleaner for a long time.
5. Royal Purple 51530 High Performance Motor Oil 5W-30
Royal Purple High Performance Motor Oil has enhanced additive technology which prevents metal to metal contact, certainly. Whenever we see low coefficient of friction, that implies an optimized fuel efficiency.
This term is exactly what you will get from this product which will help to reduce low speed ignitions.
If you have turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection engines then this oil will help you out in every critical lubrication.
Moreover, you will get superior protection against corrosion and rust. The fuel of this product ethanol to give an improved compatibility with all engines.
And coming to white sludge, that is totally avoidable with the additive technology of higher concentration gasoline-ethanol blends.
Other than that, the anti-wear additives will minimize all harmful effects and exhaust emissions from your engine.
5w40: Main Feature
5w40 oil is an effective alternative to ensure the longevity and performance of the engine. Some more features that are relevant for this oil are-
Engine Protection
This oil comprises corrosion inhibitors which will protect your engine against wear, tear and corrosion.
Fuel Efficiency
You don’t have strain about the metal to metal contact anymore if you have 5w40 oil with you. By reducing the friction, this oil will reduce the fuel consumption and increase engine performance.
Stabilize Temperature
The 5w40 oil will cool the engine parts and prevent energy deterioration and energy loss.
What Is 5w40 Oil Used For?
Gas powered engines like European vehicles perform their level best with 5w40 oils. Moreover, you can use this oil for American diesel pickup trucks in the long run. Ultimately, the best sources for 5w40 oil are diesel and gasoline powered engines.
5w40 Oil is Used for Which Cars
5w40 oil is a crude based motor oil that is a better fit for gasoline and diesel engines. This oil is mostly used for those cars that are under warranty as it holds some particular features. 5w40 oil is completely suitable for vehicles with leaded and unleaded gasoline.
5w40 Oil Specification
- Kinematic viscosity[mm2/s] : 14.443 at 100 °C and 90.903 at 40 °C
- Viscosity Index : 176
- Low Shear Rate Viscosity : 12.5 to 16.3 mm2/s at 100g
- High Shear Rate Viscosity : 3.5 at 150g
- Temperature Range : -25 °C to 35 °C
- Density[g/cm3] : 848.3 kg/m³
- Price : $140.02
- Thickness : 3.5mPas
- Oil Flow : Flows well in cold
4 Top 5w40 Oil Review In 2022
| Products | Descriptions |
| AmazonBasics Full Synthetic Motor Oil | A good quality synthetic motor oil Conveys utmost efficiency to engines Prevents against rust and corrosion Gives less engine wear and reduces friction Removes exhaust emissions overtime |
| Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Engine Oil | Protects at extreme operating temperatures Procures no hassle in fuel consumption No hassle regarding fuel consumption Reduces poisonous substances and blocking |
| Castrol 5W-40 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil | Helps to gain efficiency at engine Gives superior protection against oxidation, wear, and deposits Commendable longevity and sheerness Transforms under pressure and reduces friction |
| Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 Engine Oil | Oil delivery is rapid at low temperature Gives a high level of protection against wear Saves fuel and reduces pollutant emissions Offers high lubrication reliability at high temperatures |
#1. AmazonBasics Full Synthetic Motor Oil
There is no doubt, AmazonBasics serves the best when it comes to a good quality synthetic motor oil. Here, the formulation defines long drain intervals with utmost efficiency to engines.
Frequently, we see sudden buildups which cause rust and corrosion. But don’t stress about that when you have AmazonBasics Oil.
Moreover, this oil gives less engine wear while reducing friction at a great price. If you are thinking about the thermal breakdown, that is completely uncompromising with a high resistance to viscosity. Also, the exhaust emissions will reduce overtime once you start using this oil.
#2. Shell Rotella T6 Full Synthetic 5W-40 Diesel Engine Oil
You must count on Shell Rotella T6 Synthetic Oil because of its all rounded control system. This product gives enough protection at extreme operating temperatures with fuel economy performance.
Here, you will get advanced technology of heavy-duty engine oil and a holding of economy capability of 1.5%.
There will be no hassle regarding fuel consumption because of the increased level of protection. As a result, the harmful engine wears will stay out and will not create any hindrance in performance. Also, the deposit control will keep improving along with heat resistance.
This oil contains dispersant additives of multifunctional combinations of synthetic bases. And the low-ash formulation will help to reduce all poisonous substances and blockings that cause damage to the engine.
#3. Castrol 5W-40 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor Oil
Castrol 5w40 Advanced Full Synthetic Motor oil deserves the compliment when it is about gaining efficiency in your engine.
The fighting power of robbing deposit wholly confines up to 42% with a better rating. Moreover, this oil will give superior protection against oxidation, wear and deposits.
While talking about the sheerness and longevity that is uncompromisingly commendable for this product. And if you want maximum engine performance, Castrol Oil can be your preferable choice for that.
There is a fluid titanium in this oil which helps to reduce friction and transform under pressure. And don’t worry about the viscosity breakdown as the oil consumes three times more stronger lubricity than the other full synthetic oil.
#4. Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 Engine Oil
Liqui Moly is one of the best brands of engine oil in Germany. Their quality is outstanding with pure emotion and maximum dynamics.
Here, the oil delivery is rapid at low temperatures and offers high lubrication reliability at high temperatures. You will get a high level of protection against wear which will assure a long engine service life.
And if you want, you can mix this oil with commercial engine oil as it is compatible in all ways. Moreover, the engine cleanliness is outstanding with this product and the performance proves to be better with turbochargers.
Liqui Moly leaves no stone unturned to save fuel and reduce pollutant emissions. The pressure is also optimum in all engine speeds in high shear and aging stability. And Can I use 75W140 instead of 75W90?
Check Answer:
can I use 5w40 instead of 15w40?
What does 5W30 Engine Oil Mean?
5w30 engine oils are a great source for diesel engines and light-duty petrol. Here, the “W” in name defines winter and the preceding number indicates thickness or oil viscosity at low temperatures.
And the number you see after W indicates higher temperature viscosity at the time of engine running.
Properties and Specifications of 5w30 oil
- Grade : SAE 5W-30
- Kinematic Viscosity @ 100 C, mm2/s, ASTM D445 : 11.1
- Density @ 15.6 C, g/cm3, ASTM D4052 : 0.852
- Kinematic Viscosity @ 40 C, mm2/s, ASTM D445 : 64
- Total Base Number, mgKOH/g, ASTM D2896 : 9
- Flash Point, Cleveland Open Cup, °C, ASTM D92 : 230
- Hi-Temp Hi-Shear Viscosity @ 150 C, mPa.s, ASTM D4683 : 3.0
- Ash, Sulfated, mass%, ASTM D874 : 0.9
- Mini-Rotary Viscometer, Apparent Viscosity, -35 C, mPa.s, ASTM D4684 : 13900
- Viscosity Index, ASTM D2270 : 167
- Pour Point, °C, ASTM D97 : -45
Advantages and Benefits :
When you have a perfect engine oil, that assures to reduce costly repairs. This is how 5w30 oil prevails certain benefits which are appreciable for any engine.
Ensures a Longer Lifespan of Engine
This oil will prevent your engine from clogging and damages by reducing friction and cleaning the entire engine. Thus, your engine will perform to a greater efficiency and procure increased lifespan.
Improved Fuel Efficiency and Performance
Motor oils play a great role in keeping the engines at their top nick and clean apparently. In this way, 50w30 oil helps in maximizing the mechanical output and performance as well.
Lower Vehicle Emissions
This oil engages in strict norms which makes the engine run in a healthy state and assures a clean exhaust.
What Does 5w40 Engine Oil Mean
5w40 is an effective engine oil with a winter viscosity of grade five. It means the oil consumes less viscosity at very low temperatures.
Always remember, the motor oils where the second number is higher, the viscosity is higher at a defined temperature. As 5w40 has a number of grade five, that means the oil is less viscous at low temperatures.
Properties and Specifications of 5w40 oil
- Viscosity, cSt (ASTM D445)
At 40° : 80
At 100° : 13.7
- Viscosity Index : 176
- Phosphorous : 0.1
- Sulfated Ash, wt% (ASTM D874) : 1.3
- Density @15.6 ºC g/ml (ASTM D4052) : 185
- Total Base Number, (ASTM D2896) : 11.8
- Flash Point, ºC (ASTM D92) : 231
- HTHS Viscosity, mPa•s @ 150ºC (ASTM D4683) : 3.9
- MRV at -35ºC, cP (ASTM D4684) : 24,453
Advantages And Benefits:
Here are some important advantages and benefits you will get from a 5w40 engine oil.
Lubrication
You will get a fine lubrication in your engine parts which remains constantly in friction.
Cooling
This 5w40 engine oil provides part lubrication that helps to release heat by the lubrication circuit.
Cleaning
The cleaning power of 5w40 oil is fundamental. Here the flow of oil takes all the impurities to the filter and purifies gently.
Sealing
5w40 oil enhances the engine sealing, specially the sealing of cylinders and pistons. Hence, it deposits a protective layer between different parts where clearances may take place.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Happens If I Use 5w40 Instead of 5w30?
The difference between 5w40 and 5w30 is the viscosity. 5w40 is a good choice for warmer conditions, whereas 5w30 is perfect for cool temperatures.
There is no doubt 5w30 is more convenient but an expensive one to choose. But if you want you can use 5w40 instead of 5w30 if that comes to be unavailable. Maybe the function can differ, but that will not give any impact to your engine.
2. Which is Better 5w40 or 5w30?
While judging a better engine oil what comes to mind first, if the liquid will flow well through the engine or not.
Specifically, 5w30 oil has a winter viscosity from 9.3 to 12.5mm2/s and 5w40 gains an operating viscosity from 12.5 to 16.3mm2/s.
That means, 5w30 has less viscosity than 5w40. As a result we can say that 5w30 oils are better than 5w40 when it comes to smooth lubrication.
3. Is 5w30 or 5w40 Better for Winter?
Though different types of vehicles have different temperatures, they are ideal for cool conditions. But when it comes to choosing a 5w40 oil, keep in mind you are going for a higher mileage engine oil.
Also, 5w40 is nowhere bad for low temperature but not better than 5w30 oils. Because, 5w30 is one of the most relevant choices you can have for winter.
4. Can I Switch from 5w40 to 5w30?
5w40 oils are thicker than 5w30 oils when they are at an operating temperature. You must be thinking about the indication of “W” which will be meaningless if they are in at operating temperatures.
But when you will notice both the oils at lower temperatures, they will procure the same viscosity or thickness.
So, even if you switch from 5w40 to 5w30, that will also give a solvent feature to your engine uncompromisingly.
5. Is 5w30 Thicker than 5w40?
Basically, 5w30 oils have a working viscosity ranging from 9.3 to 12.5mm2/s. On the flipping side, 5w40 oils consume the operating viscosity of 12.5 to 16.3mm2/s.
Hence, the justification shows that 5w40 oil obtains larger viscosity than 5w30 oil. The larger the viscosity of oil, the more the thickness is. Therefore, 5w40 is thicker than 5w30 and works well in warmer temperatures.
6. Can I Put 5W40 in My BMW?
Yes, you can put 5w40 in your BMW, but make sure it has an LL-01 or LL-98 rating. BMW cars use a spec in castor oils which weighs between 30 and 40.
But when you will run shorter change intervals, there will be no need for the standard ratings. Sometimes, you may not get the LL-01 oil and that time you can go for LL-04 rated oil.
However, I will suggest that putting 5w30 in your BMW will be better, though using 5w40 is nowhere a bad alternate even.
7. Is 5W40 Good for Summer?
5w40 oils are preferable when it is about lubricating in summer. There are cold start specs with added bennie in this oil conserving in an operating temperature.
You can go longer when it is about interval and depend on the shoot load safely. Moreover, that will give fuel dilution conveniences which are suitable for different climates and weather. So, I will say that you can use 5w40 in summer if you are expecting good results from your engine.
8. What is 5W 40 Oil Used for?
5w40 is a motor oil that works effectively for high rated engine performance. Most of the manufacturers recommend this oil as a prevalent viscosity for engines of Europe vehicles and other gas powered engines.
Even the American diesel pickup trucks use 5w40 oils for the high performance of their engine. Ultimately, what goes right for this oil is diesel and gasoline powered engines.
Final Verdict
Hopefully you got a concerned idea about 5w30 vs 5w40 in mere comparison. Each of them serves best in their own way by fulfilling the specific terms.
But what matters most is how well the oil will lubricate through the engine. If your vehicle is available for high duty lubrication, then 5w40 can be the effective one for you.
On the other hand, if your vehicle is thriving for a smooth flow and clearance then 5w30 has just got you covered.
Lastly, to meet your confusion I will say 5w30 oil deserves the crown when it comes to less viscosity. Because lesser the lubrication, lesser the thickness. And if 5w30 can do so, you must give it a shot.
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