Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

Can’t decide if you should be using 10W30 or 10W40 oil in your car? Wonder what the difference is between the two? You’re not alone. Many people don’t know which type of oil to use in their vehicle, and even more, they don’t understand the differences between 10W30 and 10W40 oil. 

The 10W30 oil is a fine option for most drivers since it provides excellent fuel efficiency and prevents engine wear and tear. For drivers who drive in severe climates, 10W40 oil may be a superior choice.

So which one should you choose for your vehicle? Let us break down those differences for you and help you decide which type of oil is better for your car.

What Is the Difference Between Oil Grades?

The oil grade rating system is confusing for many people. But don’t sweat. We’ll explain what the numbers and letters mean and how to choose the right motor oil for your car.

The first number in the cold oil grade rating, 10W, refers to the low-temperature viscosity of the oil. The “W” stands for winter. The lower the number, the easier it is for the oil to flow in cold temperatures.

The second number in the hot oil grade rating, 30 or 40, refers to the high-temperature viscosity of the oil. The higher the number, the thicker the oil is.

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

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10W30 vs 10W40 Oil: Viscosity

When it comes to motor oil, there are different types with varying thickness, also known as viscosity. The main difference between 10W30 and 10W40 oil is their viscosity.

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

10W30 oil is a type of motor oil that has a lower viscosity. This means that it is thinner and flows more easily than 10W40 oil. 10W30 oil is typically used in warmer climates or during the summer months.

10W40 oil is a type of motor oil that has a higher viscosity. In other words, it is thicker and flows less easily than 10W30 oil. 10W40 oil is generally used in colder climates or during the winter months.

The winner: It really depends on the climate and temperature. If you live in a warm climate or it is summertime, 10W30 oil would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you live in a cold climate or it is wintertime, 10W40 oil would be a better choice.

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

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10W30 vs 10W40 Oil: Fuel Economy

Viscosity isn’t the only difference between 10W30 and 10W40 oil. Another key difference is fuel economy.

10W30 oil has better fuel economy than 10W40 oil. This is because 10W30 oil is thinner and flows more easily, which means it doesn’t put as much strain on the engine. As a result, the engine doesn’t have to work as hard, which leads to better fuel economy.

The winner: If you’re looking for motor oil that will save you money at the pump, 10W30 oil is the way to go.

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

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10W30 vs 10W40 Oil: Prevention of Wear and Tear

One of the most important functions of motor oil is to prevent wear and tear on engine parts. 10W30 and 10W40 oil both do a good job of preventing wear and tear, but 10W30 oil slightly outperforms 10W40 oil in this area.

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

This is because 10W30 oil is thinner and flows more easily than 10W40 oil. This means that it coats engine parts more evenly, which leads to less wear and tear.

The winner: 10W30 motor oil is the best option if you want to keep your car’s engine running smoothly for a long time.

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

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10W30 vs 10W40 Oil: Manufacturer Specifications

Now that we’ve looked at the key differences between 10W30 and 10W40 oil, you might be wondering which one is right for your car. The answer to this question depends on your car’s manufacturer specifications.

Most car manufacturers recommend 10W30 oil for normal driving conditions. This is because 10W30 oil provides good fuel economy and prevents wear and tear on engine parts.

However, some car manufacturers recommend 10W40 oil for severe driving conditions. Severe driving conditions include cold weather, towing, or racing. If you drive in severe conditions, it’s best to follow your car manufacturer’s recommendations.

The winner: 10W30 oil is the best choice for most drivers, but 10W40 oil may be a better choice for drivers who drive in severe conditions.

Motor Oil Blend Ratings

While 10W30 and 10W40 oil are the most common motor oil blends, there are other options available. Here is a quick guide to motor oil blend ratings:

  • 10W30: Common, midweight motor oil. Used in warmer climates or during the summer months.
  • 10W40: Common, heavyweight motor oil. Used in colder climates or during the winter months.
  • 20W50: Heavyweight motor oil. Used in high-performance engines or in hot climates.
  • 30W60: Extra heavyweight motor oil. Used in very high-performance engines or in extremely hot climates.

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Starburst Certification

The Starburst Certification is a voluntary program that oil companies can choose to participate in. The program tests motor oils to see if they meet certain standards.

Motor oils that pass the test are given a star rating, with the highest rating being five stars. The ratings are based on factors such as fuel economy, wear protection, and cold weather performance.

Not all motor oils are rated by the Starburst Certification, but it is a good way to compare different brands of motor oil.

10W30 and 10W30 oils are both good choices depending on your needs, but if you want to be sure you’re getting a high-quality motor oil, look for one that has a Starburst Certification.

Mixing 10W30 With 10W40 Oil

It’s not recommended to mix 10W30 with 10W40 oil. This is because the two oils have different viscosities, which can lead to problems.

If you mix 10W30 and 10W40 oil, the resulting mixture will be too thick and could cause damage to your engine. It’s best to use the oil that is recommended by your car’s manufacturer.

The bottom line: 10W30 and 10W40 oil are both good choices for different purposes, but you should never mix them together.

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

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FAQs

Is It Better to Use Synthetic or Conventional Motor Oil?

There are benefits and drawbacks to both synthetic and conventional motor oil. Synthetic oil is generally more expensive than conventional oil, but it can last longer and perform better in extreme temperatures. Conventional oil is less expensive, but it needs to be changed more often than synthetic oil.

How to Change Motor Oil?

The process of changing motor oil is relatively simple and can be done in a few easy steps:

  1. Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
  2. Find the oil drain plug and place a pan underneath it to catch the used oil.
  3. Remove the drain plug and let the oil drain into the pan.
  4. Once the oil has finished draining, replace the drain plug and fill the engine with new oil.
  5. Start the engine and check for leaks.

How Often Should I Change My Motor Oil?

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

Most car manufacturers recommend that you change your motor oil every 5000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, this may vary depending on your car and driving habits.

It’s a good idea to check your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends. You can also talk to your mechanic to get their opinion on how often you should change your motor oil.

What Are the Consequences of Not Changing Motor Oil?

If you don’t change your motor oil, it will eventually break down and turn into sludge. This can clog up your engine and cause serious damage. It can also lead to decreased fuel economy and increased emissions.

Changing your motor oil is an important part of maintaining your car, so be sure to do it at the recommended interval.

Is Thicker Oil Better for Older Engines?

Thicker oil (like 20W50) is often recommended for older engines because it can help to prevent leaks. However, thicker oil can also cause engine damage if it’s not changed frequently enough.

It’s important to consult your owner’s manual to see what oil weight is best for your car.

How Do I Know if My Motor Oil Needs to Be Changed?

There are a few ways to tell if your motor oil needs to be changed:

  • Check the color of your oil – If it’s dark brown or black, it needs to be changed.
  • Check the consistency of your oil – If it’s thick and viscous, it needs to be changed.
  • Check for metal shavings in your oil – If you see metal shavings, it’s an indication that your engine is wearing down and you need to change your oil.

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult your owner’s manual.

What Are the Symptoms of Bad Motor Oil?

Bad motor oil can cause a number of problems:

  • Decreased fuel economy
  • Increased emissions
  • Engine knocking
  • Engine damage

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get your car checked as soon as possible. Bad motor oil can cause serious damage to your engine, so be sure to change it at the recommended interval.

What Is the Difference Between SAE 30 and SAE 40 Motor Oil?

SAE 30 and SAE 40 refer to the viscosity of the motor oil. SAE 30 is thinner than SAE 40, so it flows more easily. SAE 40 is thicker, so it offers better protection for your engine.

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

Which one you should use depends on your car and driving habits. Consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.

What Kind of Oil Is Best for High Mileage Engines?

High-mileage engines often benefit from synthetic oil because it can last longer and perform better in extreme temperatures. Synthetic oil is also more resistant to breaking down and turning into sludge.

If you have a high mileage engine, be sure to consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.

Can Too Thick Oil Damage the Engine?

Yes, too thick oil can damage your engine. Thicker oil is more likely to cause engine damage because it doesn’t flow as easily. This can lead to clogged passages and reduced lubrication.

Thicker oil is also more likely to cause leaks. If you’re using thicker oil, be sure to change it at the recommended interval to prevent engine damage.

What Are the Benefits of Synthetic Motor Oil?

Some benefits of synthetic motor oil include:

  • Improved performance in extreme temperatures
  • Longer lasting protection
  • Resistance to breaking down and turning into sludge
  • Reduced emissions

Synthetic motor oil can be more expensive than conventional motor oil, but it often provides better protection for your engine. If you’re unsure which one to use, consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.

What Oil Is Best for Small Engines?

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

Small engines often benefit from synthetic oil because it can last longer and perform better in extreme temperatures. One more benefit is that it is more resistant to breaking down and turning into sludge.

If you have a small engine, be sure to consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.

What Are the 5 Functions of Motor Oil?

The big five functions of motor oil are:

  • Lubrication
  • Cleaning
  • Cooling
  • Sealing
  • Protection

How Often Should I Change My Motor Oil?

The interval at which you should change your motor oil depends on a number of factors, including:

  • Your car’s make and model
  • Your driving habits
  • The type of oil you’re using

Consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends. It’s important to change your motor oil at the recommended interval to prevent engine damage.

What Are the Symptoms of Low Oil Pressure?

Some symptoms of low oil pressure include:

  • Engine knocking
  • Decreased fuel economy
  • Increased emissions
  • Engine damage

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to get your car checked as soon as possible. Low oil pressure can cause serious damage to your engine, so be sure to check the level regularly and top it off if necessary.

Which Car Oil Lasts the Longest?

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

Synthetic oil often lasts the longest because it’s designed to withstand extreme temperatures and break down less than conventional motor oil.

If you’re looking for an oil that will last a long time, be sure to consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.

What Is the Best Motor Oil?

The best motor oil is the one that’s recommended by the manufacturer of your car. Every car is different, so it’s important to consult your owner’s manual to see what type of oil is best for your car.

Why Do High Mileage Cars Burn Oil?

High mileage cars often burn oil because the seals and gaskets start to degrade, allowing oil to leak into the combustion chamber. This can lead to increased emissions and decreased fuel economy.

If you have a high-mileage car, be sure to consult your owner’s manual to see what type of oil is best for your car. You may need to change your oil more frequently to prevent engine damage.

What Are the Disadvantages of Synthetic Oil?

Some general disadvantages of synthetic oil are that it can be more expensive than conventional motor oil and it may not last as long as advertised.

If you’re looking for an oil that’s cheaper and will last a long time, be sure to consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.

Does Synthetic Oil Clean Sludge?

Synthetic oil can help clean sludge, but it’s not a cure-all. If your engine is already full of sludge, you may need to have it professionally cleaned.

If you’re concerned about sludge build-up, be sure to consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends. You may need to change your oil more frequently or use a different type of oil to prevent sludge build-up.

Is Engine Flush Necessary?

An engine flush is not necessary if you change your oil at the recommended interval. However, if you have a lot of sludge build-up, an engine flush may be necessary to clean out your engine.

If you’re unsure whether or not an engine flush is necessary, be sure to consult your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.

Is Motor Oil the Same as Engine Oil?

Whats the difference between 10w 30 and 10w 40 oil

Motor oil is the same as engine oil. They are both used to lubricate and protect your engine.

What Happens If I Put Too Much Oil in My Car?

If you put too much oil in your car, it can cause damage to your engine. The excess oil can get into the combustion chamber and cause the engine to “knock.”

Putting too much oil in your car can also cause problems with your emission control system. Check your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends in case you’re unsure how much oil to add.

Conclusion

10W30 oil is a good choice for most drivers because it provides good fuel economy and prevents wear and tear on engine parts. 10W40 oil may be a better choice for drivers who drive in severe conditions. If you’re looking for high-quality motor oil, look for one that has a Starburst Certification.

Here are some more articles for you to check out:

Can You Put 10w30 in a 5w30 Engine?

5W30 vs 10W30 – What’s The Difference? Which is Thicker?

Can You Mix Different Weights of Oil?

Can 10w30 be used instead of 10W40?

There's not much difference between 10W-30 and 10W-40 motor oil. What sets them apart has more to do with temperature fluctuations and engine load. For moderate weather, either engine oil grades should work fine. Your choices will become more critical when you start getting into high-heat situations.

Which oil is better 10w30 or 10W40?

Thinner oil can also help to improve fuel economy. The main difference between the two oils is that 10W-40 is better for high temperatures and older engines, while 10W-30 is better for newer engines and improved fuel economy.

What is 10W

Higher viscosity oil such as a 10W-40 can be useful for older engines burning or leaking oil. We offer Mobil™ 10W-40 high viscosity motor oils for use in vehicles with more than 75,000 miles, and a synthetic blend oil when cost is a consideration.

Is 10W40 good for high mileage?

Designed for high mileage vehicles Mobil 1 High Mileage 10W-40 motor oil is recommended by ExxonMobil for use in high mileage vehicles (even those that have used lower quality conventional oils), including: Cars.