Bear60

I had my first free oil change and they used SAE 10W-30. When I saw that on the work order I said that the owner's manual says to use SAE 0W-20. I was told that I would have to pay extra as the first free oil change does not include SAE 0W-20. I said that this is the oil specified. I asked to document who authorized them to use oil that does not meet specs and to sign it. At this point they agreed to change the oil again and use SAE 0W-20. It seems to run better and is quieter too. The 2008 RX 400h requires this oil whereas the 2007 does not (SAE 5W-20).

LEXveryG8

Thanks for letting us know, because I just checked my paper work on the maintenance and they used 5w30 which i'm guessing is the SAE 10W-30. So, the next scheduled maintenance I'll be sure to bring this up.

joedaddy1

iTrader: (1)

CA dealers usually use 5w-30.

herbvdh

My dealer in Northern New Jersey used 5W-30 on my 2006 RX400h

Bear60

The SAE 0W-20 is new for 2008. It is now considered to be "tampering" by the EPA if a shop or dealer uses the wrong oil as it affects the fuel economy and the exhaust emissions.

802.11b

I'm confused. So I should use 5w20 or SAE 0w20. Or are they the same thing?

riwyle

No, they are not the same, but the difference is so minimal that you will not see a difference in the operation of the vehicle. Your engine may see a very slight difference in extremely cold weather since the 0Winter is slightly less viscous than the 5winter. Maybe a 0.1 mpg difference in this cold weather.(Of course this number is just a guess on my part but I would bet it isn't far off). No damage or perceptible difference in wear will occur to the engine with either oil. I would not hesitate using either one. I might lean toward the 5W20 in warmer climates.