Synthetic Oil Worth It?

[97BlueK1500]

I have a 97 K1500 5.7L w/ 150,000 miles. Considering changing oil to synthetic. Is it worth the extra cost? What benefits, if any, can I expect? Which one to choose if I do decide to?

[nhproxr]

I swear by synthetic, but I got to admit I use it primarily for its cold weather vicosity......builds oil pressure quick even below 0.

 

I started running it in my wife's yukon at 90k and have no problems, but some may tell you it ain't worth it at 150k cause with those miles it might leak and burn. If your motor is leak free and not smoking I say give it a shot.

 

I run Mobil 1 in my stuff, but seems as though Amsoil is also very popular. Mobil 1 is one of the few (if not only) that has absolutly no sulfurs that eventually lead to sludge. Pretty sure Mobil 1 is the only synthetic used by OEMs in some cars ('vette, mercedes, etc.), that must mean something right there.

[unit731]

I have read numerous posts on this subject.

 

There is even a website devoted to synthetic oils.

 

Most are pasionate about the subject and swear by the benefits.

 

I'm not convinced yet.

 

Some state that regular motor oils are now about 1/3 synthetic anyway.

 

All oils break down with age and use. Some state that synthetic oils don't break down as quickly and synthetic oils offer superior lubrication. Less friction = longer engine life.

[MarkD]

I run synthetic in all of my vehicles. I ran a Honda accord since new with Mobil 1. At 265k miles the thermostat housing cracked (back underside of the motor). Car emptied all of the water and overheated in the space of about 5 min on highway, warping the head. I had to have the head milled and gasketed. The motor was nearly spotless with very little wear.

 

Having said that. I dont think I would bother to start at 150k miles unless I had refreshed the motor.

[Nytemare]

Yes

Extended OCI's

I change my oil 3 times a year, 8500km per oil change.

 

costs me about 170 bucks

 

Dino oil, would be 5 -6 changes a year. Totaling about 210 bucks.

 

Smaller molecules of oil=more surface contact with parts. That leads to better heat transfer, less friction and less wear.

 

Greater Thermal breakdown temperatures, cause less sludge.

 

Saves fuel...not totally convinced on that one..but less friction should result is less wasted power, which means better economy...but it would be barley noticeable anyway.