While 5W-20 is a common viscosity, many older V8 engines, especially those from the early 2000s, performed better and had longer life with a slightly thicker oil, such as 5W-30 or even 10W-30. Using a thinner oil than recommended can lead to increased engine wear, especially in higher-mileage engines.
Using the wrong oil viscosity can damage your engine. Don't risk it. Consult your owner's manual to ensure you're using the correct oil for your specific vehicle. If the manual recommends something thicker than 5W-20, stick with that recommendation.