1. You are in SoCal: the viscosity difference of an 0w and 5w at your temps is nothing, and not a cause of consumption. M1 0/40 is a very light 40w (often shearing to a 30), but otherwise a fantastic add pack oil. For example, Amsoil rates their 0w vs 5w as:
AMSOIL 0W-30 is 57.3 cST @ 40 deg. C, & 11.3 cST @ 100 deg. C
AMSOIL 5W-30 is 59.5 cST @ 40 deg. C, & 11.7 cST @ 100 deg. C
2. Over 4K on 'accident'? This ain't a diesel: drive it :P
3. 1/2 qt in 2K miles is below tolerances. Over 1qt per 1K miles is when people tend to want to run an oil consumption test for possibly inclusion in the warranty replacement longblock TSB.
4. Be careful what you 'hear' about oil. Everyone has an opinion. The smart ones back their opinions with facts, analysis, and trending.
5. Pennzoil Ultra 5/30, 5qt usually for 28 at wally world, good UOAs in my car is my recommendation. You can't go wrong with Redline, RP, or so many other products either as they are all excellent.
6. Finally, don't over think it. That's what folks do at BITOG.com
- b