Hello,

I am due to change the oil in my wife's 2005 Santa Fe V6 2.7L AWD. It has a little over 61,000 miles on it and I've always used 5W30 and original Hyundai oil filters. I was reading in the owner's manual today that you could use 5W20 oil as well.

I was just wondering if anyone here uses it and what they think about it protection and performance wise. Experiences good and bad are wanted. Thanks.

John

 

It depends on where you live, and what kind of driving you do. If you drive really hard in hot climates, or in a lot of city traffic, then I wouldn't do it. If you take it easy, and don't drive to fast with lots of highways in a not too hot climate, then it's ok.

 

Thanks for the reply. It's a mix of city driving and highway. I live in Massachusetts. I talked with the service manager at the local Hyundai dealer and he suggested sticking with the 5W30. I change my own oil religiously and the car runs beautifully with just under 62,000 miles on it. I guess if it ain't broke don't fix it comes into play here. I'm just looking for the maximum life out of the engine, which I'm sure I'll get if I just keep doing what I'm doing. Thanks again.

John

 

With computer controlled milling technology, the tolerances on new engine built in the past 8 to 10 are much closer than before, permitting the use of thinner viscosity oils for lubrication. Thinners oils also usually translate into better mileage, so auto makers have moved towards 5w-20 as the standard weight oil for new cars. You Santa Fe was likely sold new with 5w-20 in the crankcase. I agree with the others, stick with the 5W-30. If you ever end up towing a small trailer or get stuck in stop & go traffic, the heavier viscosity will provide an extra measure of protection.

 

Put Mobil 1 or similar synthetic in and do not look back. Makes a huge difference to how smooth mine runs.