How cold is 15W40 good for?
Robert Miller
Updated on April 16, 2026
“Its starting temperature range is down to minus 22 F (compared with 15-plus with 15W40) up to 122 degrees F (same as 15W40). That tells you a couple things: There's a 37-degree cold cranking advantage (from minus 22 to plus 15) to a 5W40 and the same benefit on the high end.”
What temperature is 15W-40 oil good for?
The number "40" describes the flowability of the engine oil at an operating temperature of 100 °C. The kinematic viscosity of a 15W40 oil at 100 °C is in the range of 12.5 - 16.2 mm²/s. Engine oils with SAE Class 15W40 function in the temperature range from -25 °C to +40 °C.What grade of oil is best for winter?
The Bottom LineA multi-viscosity 5W30 oil flows quicker in cold weather and is recommended for year-round protection, and a synthetic 5W30 multi-viscosity will provide the best protection you can get in both extremely cold weather and extremely hot engine temperatures.