Synthetic Oil over 150k?

[MoldySpore]

I've read lots about switching to synthetic oil after 100k on a camry. Im approaching 160,000 miles on my camry. is it too late to swtich? is it still a good idea?

let me know guys. thanks

[Eye8Pussies]

it's never too late


it will reduce the wear and tear from here on in

[joandjo]

I just found the following article from minimopar site.

"The only real downside to synthetic oils is the cost. It is typically two or three times the cost of conventional oil for a good synthetic. Another little-known downside is that switching to a synthetic oil on an old engine can result in oil leaks. Why? Because the detergents in the synthetic oils will "clean-up" the varnish and sludge left by conventional oils. If your engine seals are worn, the synthetic will break down the oil varnish that may be maintaining the seal. So it's not that the synthetic oil caused a leak, it just that it revealed worn seals by cleaning the varnish off of them. Many people have switched to synthetic on 100,000+ mile engines with no leaks, so it just depends on how often you changed your oil and the overall condition of your engine."

[CrawlingEye]

I'm past 160k on my camry and I'm using synthetics. Never too late.

167k to be exact.

[eviltwin67]

I have almost 198k using Amsoil with no leaks. It does cost more than conventional oil, but it doesn't turn "dark" as fast so I haven't had to change it as often. I monitor my mpg and have noticed that I get at least 1 mpg more since I switched to synthetic.

[pclemg]

FYI, oil turns dark shortly after running the engine for the first time. Synthetic oils will not help reduce the dark particulates (from combustions). FWIW, I use the high mileage oils (blend) that has an additive for lubing the old seals. Its work just fine. Synthetic is probably fine other than cost and if you car does not burn oil. Good luck with your decision.

[Eye8Pussies]

about the possible leaks that people always use as an argument against going synthetic-> if you spring leaks because of changing to synthetic, remember that you had the leaks in the first place. it doesn't make leaks, it shows leaks that you've got.

[MoldySpore]

good info guys. ive heard that when you switch to synthetic, you dont have to change your oil for 20,000k or so. is that accurate? or does it all depend?

[TheMajesticking]

I swtiched to synthetic a year ago.(145k) I have had no issues. I change it like every 8,000 miles.

[perfpump]

I've used only conventional oil on my 94 V-6 Camry, with changes every 3k-5k miles. Over 170,000 miles and she runs like a champ. I'm not sold on the synthetics. I am amazed at how well this car runs. I can't even hear or feel the engine at idle.

[DAMON]

i run mobil 1 synthetic in my gen 3 and i just change it every 3000 miles or so anyways just to be safe.

[Edmond]

Okay, if you go synthetic and it starts to leak, can you switch back to dino?

[Porkch0p220]

yes you can

[userlain]

Originally Posted by Eye8Pussies

about the possible leaks that people always use as an argument against going synthetic-> if you spring leaks because of changing to synthetic, remember that you had the leaks in the first place. it doesn't make leaks, it shows leaks that you've got.

Zing!

That is a really really good point

[Bmaintz]

I have used Amsoil in my '92 (199k) & my '94 coupe (165k) with no problems.... I use the XL-7500 10w-40w since it has less detergents & you change it in 7,500 miles... Dealers cost is less than $5 a quart with S/H & tax..... Amsoil does have a 25,000 mile oil but it is high in detergent & WILL clean your engine & may cause leaks in a high mileage engine.... Hope this helps... I also use the Amsoil ATF transmission fluid in my tranny & gear box.... Bob