Is it worth it to change to Toyota's 0w20?

[Lloyd_Hanning]

I have a 4 cyl 2009 Rav4 with 21k on it...Would it be worth it in terms of cost effectiveness (longer oil changes) and longer engine life and better fuel economy if I switched over to Toyota's 0w20? I currently use conventional 5w20 oil. Was that engine designed for that "thin"(0w)of an oil? And, with 21k on the engine, is it "broken in" on conventional oil?

Thanks
Lloyd

 

[HTSS_TR]

If your Rav4 is still under warranty you should change your oil and filter according to the manual, switching to Toyota 0W20 is okay but don't extend your oil change interval until after warranty.

 

[LeakySeals]

I don't think you will notice any difference in fuel usage based on your location. Not being able to switch between conventional and syn is a old wives tale. Being able to extend intervals is the main advantage. The Toyota brand 0w20 is refined by XOM so M1 0w20 would be a good alternative.

 

[Falken]

I don't have any experience with Toyota 0W20 yet, but for Arizona heat I'd be more inclined to use QSUD 5W20.

I plan to use Toyota 0W20 for my Spring to Fall fill, so I have chilly weather in there with 2 months of extreme heat.

 

[rcy]

If they both fall within the range of a 20 weight when hot, what difference will it make? The weight of the oil isn't going to be 0 at operating temperature, which is where the engine should be the majority of the time.

 

[river_rat]

The lower number (can't get much below zero) before the W is a good thing = better cold flow. Toyota OEM motor oil is pretty good, in my opinion.

Welcome to the forum!

 

[moto94536]

It really doesn't matter you use 5w20 or 0w20. If you want to save money, use dino 5w20..

Just change oil on time, I believe it is every 5,000 miles.

You can run 5w20 in any weather.

 

[Indydriver]

My new V6 Sienna comes OE with 0W-20, a 10,000 mile specified OCI and no OLM. They must be pretty confident in this oil. My dealer's parts desk says list price is $7.25/qt. They sold me 2 cases at $6.15/qt.

 

[Lloyd_Hanning]

Hey guys, thanks a bunch....I think I'll stay with the 5w20...I just wasn't sure if it was cost effective..I REALLY appreciate all the feedback....was on another board and like, there's nobody home!

Oh, and AR is Arkansas, AZ is Arizona...

Thanks again
Lloyd

 

[fdcg27]

The marginal cost for a change is pretty small.
If you can get the Toy 0W-20 for ~$6.00/qt, I'd certainly consider it.
Why not use a really high VI oil in your ride, especially when the cost is reasonable?