What Thickness Oil Needed?

[turfy77]

I've got a 2012 Rav4 with 45000km on the clock. 

Ive been doing my own oil changes using 20w-50 and somebody told me that I might do damage to the car because the oil is too thick. I've never gave it a second thought because I've always used 20w-50 in the past (older cars). I rang Toyota and they said 10w-30 or 15w-40 is recommended. The problem is I've got about 3 new 4L tubs of this 20w-50 oil and want to use it. I've spoken to a few other mechanics and they said it will be ok but then others say don't use it.

Curious to see what other people think?

[trentmeyer23]

Open your Owner's Manual to the lubrication section(I think Section 8) and it will give you your allowable oil grades. Provided it has the 2AZ-FE, 2GR-FE or 2AD-FTV engine; 20W-50 should be ok for Western Australia's climate.

[turfy77]

yeah the manual say anywhere from 5w-30 to 20w-50. 20w-50 not recommended below about 4° (from memory, don't have manual with me at moment). Therefor on the cold nights the oil will be a bit thick. Recommended oil Id say is 10w-40.

 

[trentmeyer23]

-7°C is acceptable; however, not ideal.