Hi all, I have an 04 SE with close to 44k on it, Its about time for an oil change and I am wondering what I should use. My question is, what oil should I use to get the best performance, longevity, and least engine wear? Should I go synthetic?

 

Iv always used 10-W30 Quakerstate High Milage with Slick 50. Its worked well for me and can usually go 5k between each change. Make sure you get a good filter too.

 

First off, NEVER use Slick 50. SNAKE OIL. Has never been proven to do anything positive ever. The Government told them to put up or shut up and they pretty much just shut up. That is why you no longer see them advertise. Wasted money. As for synthetics, that is proven to be a much better oil. For long drain intervals any oil with an ACEA A5 classification has passed a European consumer unions long drain interval test. So Castrol Syntec or Mobil1 High Endurance 5W-30 or 10W-30 would be great. The best oil I know of is RED LINE OIL but is very expensive but you can get Castrol Syntec and Motocraft Filter for under $26 at Wally's World.

Just been experimenting a bit with my car and have Castrol Syntec 5W-30 with a Motorcraft FL-300 oil filter and the stupid intake lifter tick went away!

 

Okay, so my next question is, I dont know what type of oil is currently runningin the car. I just bought it at 41k. (Ive already put 3000 miles on it yeesh) So if I did switch over to synthetic, would it be okay to add synthetic right after draining my current oil? or would I need to do a flush? Also, I live in Florida and its pretty hot during the spring and summer, so what weight should I get?

 

Yes, No, 5W-30 or 10W-30 as you will.

If you are concerned about the engine being dirty and has some build up (minor at this age I'd hope) just change frequently for a short while even with conventional such as Mobil Clean 5000 or 7500 (Yeah I know that is Semi-Synthetic) with the extra detergents ould be good. Say every 1000 miles for a short while. So other than that a good 5W-30 or 10W-30 of YOUR favorite brand would be great. If it looks clean inside then just change over now and happy motoring.