Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

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  #1  
Old 07-28-2008, 06:20 AM
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Default Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

I've read a number of threads recommending to not overfill on oil changes.
I searched (a little) but didn't find the thread, so...how much oil does one use for an oil change?
Another question...in warmer weather, is there any advantage in using 0W20?
Thanks!
 
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Old 07-28-2008, 08:05 AM
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Default Re: Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

From the manual in your sig...

SAE 5W−20 or 0W−20 engine oil may be
used. However, SAE 0W−20 is the best
choice for good fuel economy and good
starting in cold weather.

Oil capacity (drain and refill), L (qt., Imp qt.):
With filter 4.3 (4.5, 3.8)
Without filter 4.1 (4.3, 3.6)

You should always use 0W-20, unless it is normally below 40F.
Never overfill! When changing your own oil, Drain it, change the filter and put 4L of oil. Let it sit for about 2 minutes, then run the ICE for about 30~45 seconds. Check the dipstick and fill until the level is at about the center of the markings.

Overfilling is very bad. You don't want the crank splashing in the oil.
 

Last edited by Intrus; 07-28-2008 at 08:12 AM.
  #3  
Old 07-28-2008, 08:07 AM
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Default Re: Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

Ouch!

...but thanks!!!
 
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Old 07-28-2008, 09:52 AM
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Default Re: Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

I just had my second oil change since I've had my TCH. The first I bought 0w20 and had a mom and pop shop change the oil. I've decided they aren't trust worthy with a hybrid so I have decided to let the dealer do it...plus they were cheaper. I had them put in 5w20 and have seen no ill effects on my mpg. I am on track for a record tank (for me that is). I was at 46.6 when I brought it in (per MFD) and am 46.8 this morning. I will stay with the 5w20 until winter time and then probably switch to 0w20 for winter.

I'm curious as to if anyone stays with the 5w20 throughout the whole year.
 
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Old 07-28-2008, 10:30 AM
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Default Re: Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

odd, that's the exact opposite of the manual, which states 0W20 unless normal outdoor temp is below 40F
 
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Old 07-28-2008, 02:14 PM
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Default Re: Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

Basically the 0W20 is synthetic while the 5W20 is dino, so it really boils down to the never-ending synthetic/dino debate. For whatever it's worth, we use 5W20 year round with no problems, but we don't get exceptionally cold weather here.

According to the chart in the owners manual, either can be used at any temperature.
 
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Old 07-28-2008, 02:24 PM
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Default Re: Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

Originally Posted by Intrus
odd, that's the exact opposite of the manual, which states 0W20 unless normal outdoor temp is below 40F
My neighbor, who is a mechanic, explained to me that the first number in the oil type ie:0w20.....is the temperature rating. By that rational then you would use 5w20 in warmer weather and 0w20 in colder. Their only 5 degrees apart but as someone else pointed out it's dino vs synthetic again.
 
  #8  
Old 07-28-2008, 09:04 PM
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Default Re: Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

A description of the oil rating system can be found on Wikipedia, here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_oil#Grades
 
  #9  
Old 07-30-2008, 08:03 AM
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Default Re: Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

I have used 5w20 year round for 37,000 miles in my TCH here in Tucson, but it rarely gets below freezing, and if it does, I am probably not out driving. LOL
 
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Old 07-30-2008, 05:11 PM
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Arrow Re: Oil change capacity and warm weather grade recommendation

Originally Posted by Intrus
Never overfill! When changing your own oil, Drain it, change the filter and put 4L of oil. Let it sit for about 2 minutes, then run the ICE for about 30~45 seconds. Check the dipstick and fill until the level is at about the center of the markings.
il
Another approach which I use is to only add 4 liters of oil.

I find that the car does not burn oil in between changes and that 4 us close enough to full.
 


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