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Old 08-05-2023, 04:41 PM   #77
cdrptrks

 
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Drives: 2017 Blue Camaro 1SS 1LE with PDR
Join Date: Sep 2018
Location: Houston, TX
Posts: 1,073
Quote:
Originally Posted by FollowMyLine View Post
So, what happens if I leave the 15W-50 in the car and do not switch back to 0W-40? Another excellent question. I’m so glad you brought your thinking cap.

There is absolutely NOTHING wrong with leaving 15W-50 in your car, depending on where you live. The downside to this is that you get less cold-weather protection, and your fuel mileage will suffer minimally and in theory, you’ll lose a tiny bit of horsepower. Think less than 1 mile per gallon or a hand full of horsies. However, depending on environment, your mileage may vary.
Mobil1 says "Up to 70% of engine wear may occur during the first 3 seconds of startup".

Amsoil says "most engine wear happens at startup" and "An engine is considered “cold” after it’s sat long enough to cool to ambient temperature, typically overnight. When it’s time to start your vehicle in the morning, the thicker oil doesn’t flow as rapidly as it does at operating temperature, leaving components vulnerable for a short time. Therefore, even in warmer climates, the motor oil’s cold-start capability matters for vehicle longevity."

Update: I think this might be an incorrect conclusion:
Code:
Based on this info, I would only use 0W or 5W oil unless the car is trailered to the track and not driven on the street because the 15W oil is going to increase wear due to slower flow every time you start the car when the oil is at ambient temperature (not just in cold winter temperatures) compared to 0W or 5W oil.

Last edited by cdrptrks; 08-05-2023 at 11:27 PM.
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