Also short-tripping and extreme cold and hot weather use. A good 25% of US cars probably meet Toyota and others’ definition of “severe service.” A major reason a robust 5w-30 is a better “one-size-fits-all” oil rec than a weaker 0w-20.

 

"extreme load conditions" is different than "severe service". The key word is 'load'.

 

Wonder what Lexus recommends in countries such as Mexico or UAE where service and environment is more severe? Some manufacturers spec thicker oils in certain countries.

 

Idling and fuel dilution?

 

What is their regulatory environment for those countries? Do mfgs have to buy carbon credits?

 

0w-20 is too thin imo. It's done for mpg concerns. I would only use it if I lived in an ultra cold climate. Like Alaska.

I've always just used 5w-30 for my Lexus instead. On my GX for instance, they recommend 5w-30 on earlier models and continued to do so in countries that don't have a fleet mpg laws on mileage. Once CAFE laws went up, suddenly they had an epiphany and said 0w-20 for the US. How convenient.

Not sure if you saw but GM changed its recommendation to thicker motor oils for its full size trucks and SUVs for longer life concerns. I think it's a big reason engines are having oil burning issues and rings going out. Throw a turbo in everything now and oil is even more strained with heat.

I like Penzoil Platinum synthetic fwiw.

If you had an engine blow up or go out, I HIGHLY doubt the dealer would do an analysis and blame the weight being "too thick" with 5w-30, but if you had an engine grenade, change the oil to the 0w-20 before you bring it in to the dealer if you're paranoid about it. $50 in insurance. You're talking about lightning strike odds for all of this.

 

Thank you for the comments.Yes, I agree, totally.And the next oil change is likely gonna be your recommendation!
Blessings,
DavidZoomzoom