I recently moved to denver colorado from san jose california. I need any information on changes I need to make to my 2001 civic coupe m/t. All the info I could find is to change my oil from 5w20 to 5w30 because of the thin air. Anything will help stupendously.

 

There's no need to change your oil viscosity.


The only thing that you may end up having issues with is starting the car in really cold weather, or at an altitude of 8,000 feet or higher - in which case it is recommended to (with all electrical items turned off) hold the accelerator half-way to the floor when you start the car, and slowly releasing the accelerator so the car isn't warming up at 4,000 RPM. LOL

If it still doesn't start, try holding the accelerator all the way to the floor, then start and release.



In all honesty, you probably won't have any problems.

 

Word dude. Thanks. But since I got here, my engine has been running hot. I mean I can smell it after I've been driving for over 10 minutes. Its only coming from the very front of the engine around the 02 sensor. Its not overheating or anything, just gets hot enough to put off a stench. Any hints?

 

i moved to CO from CA too and i live way higher than den. you shouldnt run into any altitude related problems. ive never had a problem starting my car even in like -20 degrees at 12,000 feet and i havent needed to change my oil viscosity. as for your smell when i moved up here for some reason i had issues with my belts and theyd slip, get hot, and smell. so idk but you could check that out.

 

You realize that both are still 5 winter oil viscosity right? 5w20 and 5w30 in cold weather is the exact same. the 2nd set of numbers (20 & 30) is the viscosity at higher temps.
If changing your oil made any different then you would be looking for a 0w rated oil.

 

@anirishman...

Thanks. No one told me that. I checked my belts and you were right. I need new ones. Lol.

@griffiths...

Didn't know all that. Now I do. Thanks.


High fives all around.

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