0w40 vs 10w40

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Synthetic motor oils have the potential to help engines sustain a long life. For example, 0w40 and 10w40 are ideal engine oils synthetic in their blend, with balanced additives in them. In addition, these engine oils are less viscous for both low and high-end temperatures, with respective viscosity indexes.

So, you need to consider the vehicle’s manual to ensure that your car is compatible with these oils for optimal performance. Also, both 0w30 and 10w40 are multi-grade oils that take excellent care of ECG (Engine, Clutch, and Gear).

0w40 vs 10w40

For understanding these two oils, you need to get into their detailed specifications. Being a synthetic motor oil is their plus-point which helps maintain the life of engine components. Apart from that, 0w40 and 10w40 oils also help maintain the consistency and cleanliness of the internal components.

So, make up your mind and refer to this 0w40 vs. 10w40 article to know further similarities and differences between these oils. By doing so, you will be able to choose the correct one for your vehicle.

Jumper cables on a car engine

0w40 Specifications

0w40 is the oil that earns its name in the engine oil market for its advanced engineering and ultra-performance. This formulation and the blend of engine oil are ideal for diesel and gasoline engines to ensure quality performance for those vehicles.

Apart from providing a smooth flow of lubrication, this oil also offers an ideal scope of cleaning the engine. It means that, while the lubricant flows through the engine, it cleans the sludge build-up as well. Thus, irrespective of the driving conditions, this engine oil can boost the engine for superior functionality.

The numbers within the name of this oil stand for its viscosity ratings. For example, the number ‘0’ denotes the viscosity rating of this oil at low temperatures.  And the number ‘40’ denotes the viscosity rating at high temperatures. Moreover, the 0w40 motor oil is Carbon neutral, which means that the CO2e emissions are neutralized within this oil.

Apart from that, natural-based carbon credits are infused into it. This oil has the potential to protect the engine from losing its horsepower. In some of the modern turbo direct-injection engines, low-speed pre-ignition protection is quite essential. And 0w40 has the potential to offer it.

Moreover, 0w40 has the feature to keep the pistons pretty much clean and meets the respective industry standard for the same as well. Therefore, it is highly preferable for modern vehicle engines, especially those with turbo-charge, super-charge, and FI systems. Furthermore, as it is “all-season” engine oil, the vehicles operating in all climatic regions can utilize it for additional efficacy.

10w40 Specifications

10w40 is yet another premium-quality motor oil that has the potential of supporting all types of gasoline and diesel vehicles. Also, it consists of a blend of quality base stocks and balanced additives. Irrespective of the driving conditions, whether in extreme low or high operating temperatures, this oil will support the engine to stabilize it.

Moreover, 10w40 is preferable mostly for passenger vehicles, light vans, light trucks, and other modern engines.

Car crossing a snow covered road

Like 0w40, 10w40 is also a purely synthetic oil that is strong in viscosity and provides wear protection. The numbers within this oil type specify the viscosity rating of this oil at both low and high operating temperatures. For example, 10 is the oil’s viscosity rating for low temperatures, whereas 40 is the viscosity rating at high operating temperatures.

Also, it comes with an integrated double-action formula to ensure the cleaning of sludge within the internal components of an engine. Apart from that, this formulation also intends to prevent the sludge build-up over the engine components.

The dirt dispensing and thermal stability quotient is impeccable with this oil. And it is ideal for both summer and winter climates because the oil can turn thick or thin as per the temperature variations.

Moreover, even though your vehicle has driven over 75,000 miles, this engine oil can give adequate protection to the components. It will protect the emission system of your engine and prevent the loss of power.

0w40 vs 10w40

Similarities

  • Both oils have a high-temperature viscosity rating of 40.
  • These oils have a double-action formula to offer cleanliness to the engine as well.
  • Both of these oils are preferable for gasoline and diesel engines.
  • They are all-season engine oils that work proficiently for both cold and hot regions.

Differences

  • The low-temperature viscosity of these oils differs from one another. For example, the viscosity rating at low temperature for 0w40 is 0, whereas it is 10 for 10w40.
  • The kinematic viscosity of 10w40 at 40 degrees C is 88.7mm2/s, and for 0w40 at 40 degrees C, it is 71mm2/s.
  • The ash and sulfated mass for 10w40 is 1%, whereas for 0w40, it is 1.34%.
  • The flashpoint for 10w40 is 230 degrees C, whereas, for 0w40, it is 226 degrees C.
  • 0w40 is expensive than 10w40.
Mother and daughter working on a car engine

Major Distinguishing Factor

The major distinguishing factor between 0w40 and 10w40 motor oils is the viscosity index. The viscosity index of 0w40 is 185, whereas, for 10w40, it is 150. Also, the higher the viscosity index, the better is the oil for your vehicle.

When To Use 0w40?

0w40 is ideal for gasoline and diesel engines, but the diesel engines should be without DPFs (diesel Particulate Filters). Furthermore, 0w40 is an all-around engine oil for the protection of your vehicle engine in all conditions. But, it is more efficient in terms of performance at cold temperatures.

So, if you live in a cold region, where vehicles need strong cold starts, then this is the perfect oil!

When To Use 10w40?

10w40 is also a suitable pick for both gasoline as well as diesel engines. Moreover, it is an all-season engine oil as well! Therefore, irrespective of the climatic conditions, you can prefer this oil for your vehicles.

But remember that this oil is preferable for light vehicles, such as passenger cars, light vans, or light trucks only.

Final Verdict

Both 0w40 and 10w40 are the best oils of their category. They are multi-grade and have near-about similar specifications. Therefore, the factors for choosing one depend upon the operating temperature and cost.

If you live in a cold region, then 0w40 is the perfect option for you. But, if you live in a region with seasonal climate changes, then either one of them is ideal to consider.