Originally posted by NoDisplayName:
I added 10W-30, but its possible that there was another grade in the engine already. There was not sticker anwhere (I'll be changing my own oil from now on needless to say).

Would that ruin the solenoid?



Because it's a 99 you don't have an EGR. They replaced it with a VCT (variable cam timing) and this uses oil to retard or advance the cams.

You did use 30 weight oil and your car might be 5W-30. At least you used the the same weight oil. The kinematic viscosities are extremely close. Therefore, whether you use the 0W-30, 5W-30 or the 10W-30 is strictly a matter of choice. The W=Winter and 5W vs 10W would only change how things work in the winter, but once the engine warms up this should not be a problem.

Have the oil flushed.. Put the right oil in and clear the codes. If that does not work then have someone fix your VCT because they do go bad.

If it makes you feel any better I need to have my VCT fixed because of a P1381.