[Bob Lincoln]

Generally the 5W-20 is specified for engines with variable valve timing. I would have guessed that that feature is in both model years.

 

[John Wood]

Ok, my 2012 T&C 3.6 requires 5w30 oil, my 2013 200 3.6 is requires 5w20...

Is there a differance beacuse of the model year?

The newer engines use tighter tolerances and can use a lighter oil which should help very slightly with gas mileage (i.e. less viscosity = less friction).
My 2009 RAV4 calls for 0W-20 or if not available, 5W-20. I think almost all newer vehicles have gone to these low viscosity oils.

 

[Bob Lincoln]

John - same engine, one brand new and one only a year old? I don't think tolerance changes are a factor here.

 

[John Wood]

My comment was general regarding newer engines, however I understand that the 2013, 3.6 did have an update to address some cold start ticking noises. I don't know if the ticking was resolved by using lighter oil or if a physical design change was made.

There is a lot of discussion on the web and here is a thread from "Bob Is The Oil Guy" forum:

http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2710312

 

[David Eidell]

I found in my case it is pretty tough to outsmart OEM and their oil viscosity recommendations. They are aware of tolerance differentials with regard to varying temperature. I thought all automobiles came with recommended SAE oil viscosity guideline decals, or at the least, in the owner's manual.

 

[valiant67]

I have heard that there might be a TSB recommending 5w20 for the 2012 3.6 engine. But I think the last oil change in my Challenger by the dealer was still 5w30.

 

[saltydog]

I think will jsut stick to 5w20 for both, that way I dont have to remeber. Should not be a problem.