| Better Mileage Using Synthetic Oil?
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| jp1450 |
We have had our MDX for about two months now and the mileage is at around 18.5 combined city and highway. We drive about 60% city and 40% highway, so I really can't complain about the mileage. We are approaching 3000 miles, and I anticipate changing the oil in the next couple of weeks.
That brings me to my question: Has anyone seen an improvement in mileage when using synthetic oil? To take it one step further, has anyone seen a difference in 5W20 as compared to 0W30? Even though 5W20 is recommended by Acura, would 0W30 be of any benefit in northern NY? Amsoil seems to rave about the benefits of their 0W30. What is your experience? |
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| G. COLTON |
I have always felt that I get better mileage using systhetic oil, however, I cannot prove that. I do think it has been proved that the engine will last longer.
DO NOT use a heavier weight oil in a colder climate. The colder climate needs the less restrictive flow of the lighter weight oil.
G |
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| Sooner in FL |
quote:
Originally posted by jp1450
We have had our MDX for about two months now and the mileage is at around 18.5 combined city and highway. We drive about 60% city and 40% highway, so I really can't complain about the mileage. We are approaching 3000 miles, and I anticipate changing the oil in the next couple of weeks.
Why are you changing your oil so soon? Acura severe recommend service is at 3750 or normal at 7500? Check your service manual or owner manual. |
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| mgtr |
I have only one experience with synthetic oil. In the early 80s, we lived in NE New Jersey and had a weekend place in the Poconos (NW PA). We drove that in a full-size Chevy van, V8, about every weekend. We got 14-15 MPG. My mechanic put synthetic oil (after thorough flushing) in the engine, tranny, and diff. We then got 16-17 MPG for the same trip.
This was probably about as controlled as you could reasonably expect. Even though my experience was good, I haven't bothered to mess with synthetic since then -- it is costly, not always available, and there may be warranty issues.
I never did run the numbers, but sort of doubt that I really saved any net money on the deal. |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by mgtr
Even though my experience was good, I haven't bothered to mess with synthetic since then -- it is costly, not always available, and there may be warranty issues.
I never did run the numbers, but sort of doubt that I really saved any net money on the deal.
I don't where you live, but syns are readily available at any Target, Costco, KMart, WalMart, Sams, Auto Zone, Kragen, Pep Boys, etc. etc. etc. etc. etc....store.
Cost is greater, that's certainly a personal choice. And there are absolutely no warranty issues if the bottle has API approved on it.
Plus, they are a factory fill of several high performance vehicles. |
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| mgtr |
| I am sure your are right, but when I moved to Western South Carolina in 1984, that was definitely not the case. I had to move back to regular oil, etc. I couldn't even find Amsoil at that time. I might have been able to make it work if I changed my own oil, but I did not. Now, there would be no problem. Most garages will supply it on request. |
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| Mr. Mom |
I’ve been using Mobil 1 5w30 and getting 18.6 mileage around my regular routes. After switching to the new GF-4 rated 5w30, I seem to be getting 20.1. I might even do better with the 5w20 oil but would rather have the better protection from heat.
http://www.mobiloil.com/USA-English...il_1_5W-20.aspx |
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| Maldoman |
| Are there any issues with going with the 5w30 instead of 5w20? I live in southern California where it does get very hot in the summer 80 to 90. What about 30 in summer and 20 in winter? Good idea or bad? A well oiled machine is my goal and want to find the right product. I was thinking oil changes at 4 to 5k with a fram double guard. Looking forward to all comments and suggestions.:28: :29: |
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| Mr. Mom |
quote:
Originally posted by Maldoman
Are there any issues with going with the 5w30 instead of 5w20? I live in southern California where it does get very hot in the summer 80 to 90. What about 30 in summer and 20 in winter? Good idea or bad? A well oiled machine is my goal and want to find the right product. I was thinking oil changes at 4 to 5k with a fram double guard. Looking forward to all comments and suggestions.:28: :29:
Honda changed from 5w30 to 5w20 in 03, most think just for the mileage angle. Some think having the 5w30 is insurance for the longevity of the engine. The 30 is rated for turbo and high performance engines. I use it for the extra protection in summer and it is what the local cost-co has in stock. I don't shop Walmart. I don't know if changing oil weight is good for the engine, I have my doubts . |
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