Originally Posted By: Trav
Originally Posted By: CATERHAM
Originally Posted By: Trav
Something sure isn't right with these recommendations. How much of it is CAFE driven?
I mean if its good enough for track use then it should be good enough for the Autobahn right?.
There is nothing wrong with the recommendation, it's perfectly clear, Toyota wants you to use the 0W-20 grade. The fact that they have given some flexibility in the grade choice is never here nor there and quite frankly we're just having some fun with it. 0W-20 is pretty much the sole grade recommended now across the entire Toyota and Lexus model line in NA.
An it is good enough for the track as FR-S owners can attest to.
If other grades are recommended in Germany that doesn't mean that the lubrication demands of the engines aren't being met with the 0W-20 grade because they obviously are.
Thats no real answer is it? I know its clear, the question is what is the motivation, it cant be performance or it would be spec in Germany also.
Why the discrepancy? The 0w20 is widely available from dealers and the aftermarket so if it was really good enough why don't they just spec it?
Ford does for a few of their hybrid engines also. I don't know i have a feeling the 0w20 may not be optimal.
BTW we are not talking any old 5w30 but TGMO 5w30.
I see you played Devil's Advocate, here's me playing. Could it be Toyota feels there might be more warranty claims, because of the "possibility" of more vehicles being used for extended high speed use in Germany. Maybe they're hedging their bets? Since there's no real answer everyone is entitled to their opinions on the topic. BTW Trav we have a similar POV.
Bottom line is a 30 grade oil is not going to cause any harm, and might actually be beneficial in certain instances.