Oil Weight Question

So, like an idiot I wasn't playing close enough attention and I bought a 5 quart jug of 5w-20. I didn't notice until I opened it so I can't take it back. Is it going to make any real difference if I just use this so I don't waste $25+?

 

http://www.machinerylubrication.com/Read/171/oil-can

 

I would say unless your in the desert, go 30 weight. But if you use it, it may be okay. But is it worth 25$ if not?

 

San Antonio's not quite a desert...close though. I'll spend another $25 if I have to, just wanted some opinions before I do.

 

Tundra not desert. Higher number thicker oil. I misspoke

 

nah just a lighter weight. i would change it sooner, like at 3k miles instead of the 5k recommended with our tacomas.
I almost did the same thing you did, i picked up a 5 quart special at advance auto parts, got home, looked under the hood, and saw 5-w30. luckily for me i didnt open it and exchanged for the right weight. i keep forgetting what weight it is, 5000 miles is a long time. plus when the store attendant looked it up in the system it pulled up 5-w20... so anyway i see no harm in it, just change it sooner next time, dont throw away $25 or whatever you payed

 

If you are going to change the oil buy three quarts straight 30 weight. Then top off with the 5W-20. Repeat the process next time you change oil until your 5W-20 is gone. This will work fine, protect the engine like a 5W-30 would and you can sleep at night.

 

Well, crisis averted....luckily Wallyworld has a very lax return policy. Thanks for the inputs though.

 

Depends on how you're driving: 5-30 would be better if you're towing in summer temps. If you're towing real heavy in the mountains (not many around SanAnton I know of) in hot mid-summer for long distances at high-way speeds you'd be better off with a 40 weight.

But since it's winter (or close to it) and/or you're not towing you'll be perfectly fine with 5w20; that's what I use up here in Pennsylvania year-round.

 

San Antonio in south Texas is often summer like during the winter at times getting up into the 90's and occasionally cold. Using straight weight SAE 40 anytime during the year is a bad idea. It promotes premature wear and diminishes mpg even during summertime temps.