Hello... I changed the oil about 1000 miles ago and now I see a small amount of black smoke when I first start the car. I just realized I used the 5w20 meant for my 03 TL instead of 5w30 for the last oil change. Could that be the cause? It is a 3.2 with 201k miles on it.

thanks,

 

It shouldn't be a problem. I've used 5W-20 in the TL many times.

 

isnt it the more miles the more viscosity you need in the engine oil due to wear issues?.. iv'e used i think 10-40 or more with 190k is that ok?

 

I have heard that it quiets the engine and prevents small leaks.

 

I think I'm going to change it. I never saw any smoke before this oil change and it looks like I already need to add another quart after only 1000 miles. I usually only need one quart per 5000 miles.

I've been using 5w30 without any issues. I figured 10w40 would cause my already iffy MPG to be further reduced.

 

^ Yeah and that too, 10w40 will be cause less oil consumption on older engines, but you loose MPG. I would just stick with 5w30 if it hasn't cause you any problems.

 

5w-20 will be thinner than the 5w-30 which may not lubricate correctly. Engines are designed with certain bearing clearances and oil that is too thin can actually cause worse lubrication. It's fine for you to run 5w-20 but you may not get optimal lubrication/efficiency. just switch back to 5w-30 on the next oil change if you're not burning any oil.