Cold weather and the Yaris

[john21031]

Use synthetic oil in the winter in 5w30 or thinner viscosity. The mineral oil can become too viscous when cold and not circulate or lubricate parts when just first started. It's terrible for the engine. Start with the basics.

[IllusionX]

Originally Posted by john21031

Use synthetic oil in the winter in 5w30 or thinner viscosity. The mineral oil can become too viscous when cold and not circulate or lubricate parts when just first started. It's terrible for the engine. Start with the basics.

Viscosity should be the same (within spec) mineral or synthetic.

[tmontague]

Originally Posted by IllusionX

Viscosity should be the same (within spec) mineral or synthetic.

True, like you said "within spec". I you're in an area that drops temps below what the "5w" is rated in synthetic tends to flow better at those out of range temps. That's essentially one of the sole purposes in running synthetic (grade IV not V). There is no doubt it has made the cold starts easier and smoother for me.

That being said, I have never heard a grinding noise in any car at any low temps regardles of oil. I would think it's something other than a shearing noise. Unless a gallery port is plugged an oil isn't getting there at all?