Which oil change is better for high mileage cars?
As vehicles age, their maintenance needs evolve, particularly when it comes to oil changes. High mileage cars, typically defined as those with over 75,000 miles, require special attention to ensure their longevity and performance. In this article, we will explore the best oil change options for high mileage vehicles, helping you make informed decisions for your car's health.
Understanding High Mileage Oil
High mileage oil is specifically formulated for vehicles that have seen significant use. It contains additives that help to rejuvenate engine seals, reduce oil consumption, and minimize leaks. Here are some key benefits of using high mileage oil:
- Seal Conditioners: These additives help to restore and maintain the flexibility of engine seals, reducing the likelihood of leaks.
- Reduced Oil Consumption: High mileage oils are designed to minimize the amount of oil your engine burns, which is common in older engines.
- Enhanced Protection: These oils often contain additional detergents and anti-wear agents that protect older engines from wear and tear.
Choosing high mileage oil can significantly improve the performance and lifespan of your vehicle, making it a wise choice for cars with higher mileage.
Conventional vs. Synthetic Oil for High Mileage Cars
When considering an oil change for a high mileage car, you may wonder whether to use conventional or synthetic oil. Here’s a breakdown of both options:
- Conventional Oil: This is the traditional oil option, which is less expensive but may not provide the same level of protection as synthetic oils. It can be suitable for older vehicles that have been using conventional oil throughout their life.
- Synthetic Oil: Synthetic oils are engineered to provide superior protection and performance. They offer better resistance to breakdown, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced protection against engine wear. Many high mileage vehicles benefit from synthetic blends or full synthetic oils.
While conventional oil may be adequate for some older vehicles, synthetic oils generally offer better protection and performance, making them a preferred choice for many high mileage cars.
When to Change Your Oil
For high mileage vehicles, regular oil changes are crucial. Here are some guidelines on when to change your oil:
- Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for conventional oil.
- Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles for synthetic oil.
- Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations based on your vehicle's make and model.
Staying on top of your oil change schedule can help prevent engine problems and extend the life of your vehicle.
Conclusion
In summary, for high mileage cars, using high mileage oil, preferably synthetic, is often the best choice. Regular oil changes are essential to maintain engine health and performance. By understanding the benefits of high mileage oil and adhering to a consistent maintenance schedule, you can ensure your vehicle continues to run smoothly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the world's no. 1 engine oil brand?
Comparison of the best engine oils for 2022
| Engine oil name | |
|---|---|
| Best engine oil overall | Mobil 1 Extended Performance |
| Best engine oil overall runner-up | Castrol GTX Magnatec |
| Best synthetic engine oil | Pennzoil Ultra Platinum Full Synthetic |
| Best synthetic engine oil runner-up | Amsoil Signature Series Synthetic |
Which oil is good for high mileage cars?
Shell Helix High Mileage Oils. The Shell Helix High Mileage range is developed for older, higher-mileage engines, and is formulated with anti-wear agents to help slow down wear; helping to prolong engine life.
Is it okay to run synthetic oil in older cars?
Yes, you can run full synthetic oil in older cars, and it can even be beneficial in many cases. Here are some key points to consider: Compatibility: Most older engines can use synthetic oil without issues.
Which oil is better for older engines?
Synthetic Blend Oil – High Mileage
High mileage oils are formulated to overcome the added engine stress conditions of older vehicles and engines that have been driven for 75,000 miles or more.
What happens if I put synthetic blend instead of full synthetic?
For most vehicles, synthetic blend is a good choice. If your vehicle speficies that full synthetic is required, then a synthetic blend will not be okay – it could actually leave your engine vulnerable to damage.
Which is better, high mileage oil or synthetic?
Synthetic vs. Conventional: - Synthetic Oils: They provide better protection and performance at high temperatures and can help with fuel efficiency. They are often recommended for high mileage engines. - Conventional Oils: Generally less expensive, but may not provide the same level of protection as synthetic oils.
What happens if you put synthetic oil in a high mileage car?
USING HIGH-MILEAGE SYNTHETIC OIL IN HIGH-MILEAGE ENGINES
Those who decide to switch to high-mileage synthetic oil may face leakage problems due to the potential incompatibility of the synthetic used in certain oils with the engine's seal types.
Is Jiffy Lube high mileage oil worth it?
It's not a cure all, but studies have shown high mileage motor oils can reduce oil consumption and keep older engines running healthier, longer. So you can keep the "family" intact. Check a Jiffy Lube® service center near you to see what type of high mileage oil options are available to help keep your performance up.
What kind of oil change should I use for high mileage?
In summary, the best oil for a high mileage car is typically a high mileage synthetic or conventional oil with the recommended viscosity. If experiencing issues like oil consumption or leaks, a slightly thicker oil may be beneficial, but it's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Is a high mileage oil change worth it?
Getting a high-mileage oil change is a great way to keep your older vehicle on the road for years to come. At Serra Honda Champaign, we recommend high-mileage oil changes after 75,000 miles, or sooner if you've noticed performance issues.
