Ok, I just bought a new-ish 2004 Cavalier w/ an Ecotec with only 8200 miles... I know you're not supposed to switch to synthetic late in a car's life, but what is the oldest a motor should be before switchign? I used synthetic until i wrecked my old Cavi and I think it helped that motor put up with my abuse... I wanna use it with my new Ecotec...
I use Castrol Full Synthetic
Mobil one here, and there is no set limit, it just depends on its condition.
2012 HD VRSCF
2010 Ford Explorer
2006 Ford Ranger
2004 Chevy Cavalier
This has allways been a huge debate.
Your engine is new enough that you could do it no problem. I switched mine after 100,000kms (60,000miles) to mobil 1 synthetic and have had no problems.
I went to the mobil 1 website under FAQ's.......it just says that when switching to synthetic, you should change it 5000 miles after the first time because the detergents in the oil wash away a bunch of the old crap in the engine that normal oil wont catch. So it gets dirty fast....only for the first time.
I work with millwrights and they say that if your engine is too old, the sludge and crap clogs gaps in your seals, and when you switch to synth it can wash away the crap keeping your seals together. Therefore causing oil leaks.
At 8200 miles you car is a baby.....i would do it for sure.
Thats my opinion, its such a huge debate that im sure someone might disagree......but like i said, i havent had any problems.....only benefits so far.
I would run a synthetic oil filter too though (it probably doesnt make a difference but it makes me feel better)
http://www.cardomain.com/id/champcar
yeah at 8200 miles that engine is still real fresh. synthetic shouldnt hurt it at all. i use mobil 1 extended performance and change it ever 5k. filter too of course.
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thanks guys... I think you're probably right... 8200 is still pretty young... I'm so excited to have a motor with some decent potential... not to mention a decent starting point... I test drove it today, it feels faster stock than my old car did with a CAI and Cat-Back...
