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Given all the discussion here on the 5w-20 oil spec for the 2009-10's I thought this would be of interest. Was in yesterday's (8-14-10) paper.CAR TALK Lighter oils do the job these days TOM AND RAY MAGLIOZZI Dear Tom and Ray: I recently was advised to use a much lighter weight of oil than I am used to. I was told I should use 5-20 weight oil in my 2007 Pontiac Solstice convertible. I grew up in Minnesota, where this was considered “winter weight” oil. For summer, we all went up to 20-40 or 30-50 weight. Now I live in northern Georgia, and 5-20 weight just sounds awfully thin — especially in summer. So, is the mechanic trying to ruin my engine? Or have things changed since I was 16? — Richard Tom: Things have changed since you were 16, Richard. I mean, start by taking a look at your hairline. Ray: Oils have changed, too. They’ve gotten significantly better in the past 30 years. The improvements in their ability to lubricate and resist high-temperature breakdown have allowed manufacturers to make engines that run on these lighter-weight oils. And lighter oils mean less internal engine friction, which means better gas mileage. Tom: That’s why Pontiac itself suggests you use 5W-20 in your Solstice. You can use a heavier oil if you want, but you won’t get the intended fuel economy, and in cold weather, you won’t get the engine protection that your manufacturer is counting on. Ray: So, I’d use 5W-20, Richard. Since it’s the manufacturer’s recommended oil, it certainly won’t do any harm to your engine. Tom: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try some 5W-20 on your hairline, too. It probably won’t grow hair, but from a distance, that black smear might be mistaken for a patch of new growth. Have a question about cars? Write to Click and Clack Talk Cars in care of King Feature Syndicate Group, 300 W. 57th St., New York, NY 10019.

These two are far from experts on oil but their advice is sound, do as the manufacturer says in regards to oil weight. Newer engines also run a much tighter bearing to crank clearance so the thinner oil is best. Thick oil won't squeeze into those small spaces thus there is a loss of lubrication.No matter what oil you run, just change it at a frequency you are comfortable with, generally accepted between 5,000 and 10,000 miles. I personally shoot for 7,000 knowing a few thousand either side is absolutely fine.Dave