High Mileage Oils: Are They Worth the Extra Cost?

When it comes to automotive maintenance, choosing the right type of motor oil can be confusing. One common question that arises is whether high mileage oils are worth the extra cost. In this article, we'll delve into the benefits and drawbacks of high mileage oils and help you decide if they're right for your vehicle.

Do High Mileage Oils Solve Oil Contamination Problems?

High mileage oils, marked as such because they are designed for vehicles with engines that have accumulated significant mileage, are often marketed as a solution to various oil-related issues. However, the reality is that these oils alone may not solve all your problems. While they are engineered to provide additional protection to older engines, the contaminants already present in the oil can still become problematic, especially if the oil is thickened or contains debris from wear over time.

Beyond the need for these oils, consider that powdered metal in the oil, which can accumulate due to wear, will still clog filters and exacerbate issues with engine bearings. No matter how good the oil is, these contaminants will still pose a threat to your engine's health if not properly managed through regular maintenance and clean oil changes.

When Should You Consider Using High Mileage Oils?

High mileage oils are particularly useful when you have a vehicle that is nearing the end of its life and may require additional oil to reach its final destination, whether that be to the junkyard or a shop for a motor rebuild. If your car is running well and is not leaking oil, and you expect to get another 50,000 miles out of it, then your current oil choices and maintenance regimen are working just fine. There is no reason to change success simply for the sake of brand new oil. Often, the advertising hype from oil companies can lead you to spend more money unnecessarily.

How High Mileage Oils Help Minimize Oil Loss

One of the advantages of high mileage oils is that they can help minimize oil loss in engines with worn seals. High mileage oils often swell most seals, which allows oil control rings to reduce oil consumption in the combustion chamber. Therefore, if you are experiencing oil consumption issues, high mileage oils can be beneficial as they can help manage and control these leaks without compromising the overall performance of the engine.

Synthetic Oils: The Superior Choice

Synthetic oils, on the other hand, are often considered superior due to their extended life and overall performance. They are particularly effective in reducing initial wear, as they enable moving parts to get lubricated faster upon startup. This is a critical feature, as the initial startup phase is where most wear and tear occurs. With synthetic oils, you can achieve better longevity in your engine without the need for frequent oil changes.

Additive Differences and Maintenance Tips

The primary difference between high mileage oils and regular oils lies in their additives. High mileage oils typically have a bit more detergency to help clean out deposits, as well as esters that soften seals to prevent leakage. While these oils may be slightly more viscous, they still fall within the range specified for your engine. However, some seal softeners in these oils can act as solvents to help dissolve carbon deposits and sludge that might have built up over time.

To maintain optimal performance in your engine, consider a one-time treatment of a product like AutoRx, which can be used for a few thousand miles before returning to a regular API-certified oil. For instance, this approach has allowed me to achieve 400,000 miles on my Toyota without experiencing any oil leakage or loss of compression, requiring only one treatment every 80,000 miles.

It's also worth noting that the frequency of oil changes should be based on how many miles you do. For instance, if you have a work car that gets 25,000 miles a year, you might use a 15,000-mile oil and filter, which means you only need to change it twice a year. However, if you drive less, say 5,000 miles a year, you should still change the oil every 12 months to ensure it remains clean and effective. Additionally, always use a premium filter to prevent premature clogging.

Conclusion

In summary, high mileage oils can be beneficial for older or high-mileage vehicles, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. For newer or well-maintained engines, regular oils are often sufficient. Consider the particular needs of your vehicle and your driving habits when deciding whether to invest in high mileage oils or stick with a quality regular oil. Regular maintenance and appropriate choices can help ensure your engine runs smoothly and efficiently, whether you choose synthetic or regular oils.

Keywords: high mileage oils, synthetic oils, oil change frequency, seal softener, detergency