Guest

I know the manual states that 5W is the recommended oil rating for the TLS. Are there any downsides (or even upsides) for using 10W?

LORD STANLEY

10W is a bit heavier oil with a different temperature range...My suggestion is to stick with what the manufacturer reccommends which is 5W since the engine tolerances are so tight.

ymckoon

What Lord Stanely said is correct. Also 5w-30 has a more wide temperature range of operation and is thinner. Many will claim that you will get better gas mileage using 5W-30. I believe it, but don't have proof on it, but from my experience, I think I get better mileage on 5W-30, but then again, it could be more freeway driving at that time, who knows...

10W-30 is not as versatile as 5W30, but since CA weather is not THAT extreme either way (compared to Maine or Chicago for example) 10-30 is can be used. Some mechanics will claim that the older your car gets, it's better to use the thicker oil (1030) because it won't slip through the cracks as much. I don't know if it's true. Regardless, since you're in CA, i don't think it matters that much, just change it every 3000 and stick to the manual if you ever have doubts, so go with 5-30 if you can, and with 1030 if it's on sale.

If you're change your own oil, buy 5 -30.

songoku

I use Mobil1 5W-30

2001TL4KCdude

where you are I would stick with 5-30
I use 10-30 in the winter, it is a little thicker. I use 5-30 in the spring, summer and fall. This implies I change my oil 4x a year.

Mr Hyde

Why are you using a thicker oil for your car in the winter???? The whole point of using 5w is that it is thinner and flows quicker when it is cold especially in the winter compared to a 10w oil. Using a 10W in the winter makes absolutely no sense.

Bottom line keep 10W away from our cars and definitely dont use it in the winter