“Should I use thicker oil in a high mileage engine” refers to whether increasing oil viscosity can help manage wear in engines with higher mileage. Thicker oil may reduce oil consumption, improve oil pressure, and help seal worn components such as piston rings or valve guides. However, it can also reduce cold-start lubrication and may not meet manufacturer specifications. The correct choice depends on engine condition, climate, and the viscosity range approved by the manufacturer. Many drivers consider high-mileage oils within the recommended viscosity range as a balanced alternative.
A Quick Pick: Valvoline Full Synthetic High Mileage – Balanced synthetic option for engines needing robust protection without extreme thickness. CASTROL GTX High Mileage 5W‑30 – OEM close viscosity high-mileage blend; great when stick to manufacturer spec but want anti-leak benefits. Royal Purple HMX High Mileage 5W‑30 – Premium additive package for engines where seals and cleanliness are priorities. Mobil 1 High Mileage Full Synthetic 5W‑20 – Excellent lower viscosity high-mileage choice when cold starts or OEM require lighter oil.
Do you know High mileage engine oil is specially designed for vehicles with over 75,000 miles on the odometer.
Table of Contents
Understanding Oil Viscosity (sae Ratings)
Choosing the right oil for a high mileage engine can be tricky. One important factor is understanding oil viscosity. Viscosity shows how thick or thin the oil is at different temperatures. The SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) rating helps you understand this. Knowing these ratings helps pick the best oil to protect your engine and keep it running smoothly.
If you want to learn more about what is engine oil, check our step by step guide
What Does Sae Rating Mean?
The SAE rating tells you the oil’s thickness or flow ability. It has two parts: a number before the “W” and a number after. The “W” stands for winter, showing how oil flows in cold weather.
- Lower number before W: Thinner oil in cold temperatures, easier engine start.
- Higher number after W: Thicker oil at normal engine temperature, better protection.
For example, 10W-30 oil is thinner in cold weather than 10W-40 but both are the same thickness when the engine is hot.
Why Viscosity Matters For High Mileage Engines
Engines with high mileage often have worn parts and larger gaps. Thicker oil can fill these gaps better, reducing leaks and oil burn. But too thick oil can cause poor circulation and reduce fuel efficiency.
- Thicker oil: Better seal for worn engine parts.
- Thinner oil: Easier flow, better fuel economy.
Choosing the right viscosity balances protection and performance.
Common Sae Viscosity Grades Explained
| SAE Grade | Cold Temperature Performance | Hot Temperature Thickness | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5W-30 | Thin, flows easily in winter | Moderate thickness at engine heat | Most modern engines, good fuel economy |
| 10W-40 | Moderate flow in cold | Thicker at operating temperature | Older or high mileage engines needing thicker oil |
| 15W-50 | Thicker in cold weather | Very thick at engine temperature | High mileage or racing engines |
Why Consider Thicker Oil In A High Mileage Engine?
High mileage engines often face unique challenges due to wear and tear. The right oil can help protect and improve engine performance. Thicker oil can be a good option for engines that have been driven many miles. It helps by creating a stronger layer between moving parts, reducing metal-to-metal contact.
Understanding Engine Wear And Oil Thickness
As engines age, their parts wear down and gaps increase. Thinner oil may leak through these gaps, causing less protection. Thicker oil fills these spaces better, helping to maintain pressure and protect engine parts.
Benefits Of Thicker Oil For High Mileage Engines
- Better sealing: Thicker oil seals worn parts, reducing leaks.
- Improved lubrication: It stays longer on engine parts, cutting down friction.
- Reduced oil consumption: Less oil burns off or leaks, saving money.
- Lower engine noise: Thicker oil cushions moving parts, making the engine quieter.
Possible Drawbacks To Consider
- Thicker oil may cause harder starts in cold weather.
- It can reduce fuel efficiency due to higher resistance.
- Not all engines are designed for thicker oil; check manufacturer advice.
Choosing The Right Thickness
| Oil Viscosity | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5W-30 | Newer engines | Good for normal wear and cold starts |
| 10W-40 | High mileage engines | Better for worn parts and warmer climates |
| 15W-50 | Very old engines with large wear | Offers thick protection but may affect cold starts |
Pros Of Thicker Oil
Thicker oil offers several benefits that can help older engines run smoother and last longer. Understanding these advantages helps in making the best decision for engine care.
Improved Seal Protection
Thicker oil creates a stronger barrier around engine seals. This helps prevent leaks and keeps the engine parts well-lubricated. Over time, seals in high mileage engines can become dry and brittle. Thicker oil provides:
- Better cushioning for seals, reducing wear and tear
- Improved flexibility of rubber seals, preventing cracks
- Reduced chance of oil leaks due to a tighter seal
This thicker layer of oil acts like a shield. It fills small gaps that thinner oil might miss. Engines with worn seals benefit greatly from this added protection. Below is a simple table comparing oil thickness and seal protection:
| Oil Thickness | Seal Protection Level |
|---|---|
| Thinner Oil (e.g., 5W-20) | Lower – May not fully protect old seals |
| Thicker Oil (e.g., 10W-40) | Higher – Provides better seal coverage |
Using thicker oil can slow down seal deterioration and extend engine life. This is especially useful for engines with many miles on the clock.
Reduced Oil Consumption
High mileage engines often consume more oil than new ones. Thicker oil helps lower this consumption by sealing gaps better. Worn engine parts can allow oil to escape or burn off. Thicker oil reduces this problem by:
- Creating a stronger oil film that prevents leaks
- Reducing oil burn-off during combustion
- Maintaining engine pressure for better performance
Engines that lose oil quickly need frequent top-ups, which can be costly and inconvenient. Thicker oil reduces the need to add oil often. This saves money and lowers the risk of engine damage from low oil levels.
Here is a quick comparison of oil consumption rates:
| Oil Type | Oil Consumption Rate |
|---|---|
| Thinner Oil | Higher – More prone to leaks and burn-off |
| Thicker Oil | Lower – Better at sealing and retention |
Choosing thicker oil helps older engines hold oil better, keeping them healthier for longer.
Enhanced Wear Resistance
Thicker oil forms a strong layer between moving engine parts. This layer reduces friction and protects metal surfaces from damage. High mileage engines often have worn parts that need more protection. Benefits of thicker oil for wear resistance include:
- Better lubrication under high pressure and heat
- Reduced metal-to-metal contact, lowering wear
- Longer engine life due to less damage
Thicker oil holds its protective qualities better at higher temperatures. This is important for engines that run hot or have many miles. The table below shows how oil thickness affects wear protection:
| Oil Thickness | Wear Resistance |
|---|---|
| Thin Oil | Lower – May break down faster under stress |
| Thick Oil | Higher – Maintains protection longer |
Using thicker oil helps older engines avoid costly repairs by reducing wear on critical parts. This keeps the engine running smoothly and quietly.
Cons Of Thicker Oil
Choosing the right oil thickness for a high mileage engine is important. Thicker oil seems like a good idea to protect old engine parts. It can help reduce leaks and oil burning. But thicker oil also has downsides. These cons can affect your engine’s performance and fuel use. Understanding the drawbacks helps make a better choice for your engine’s health.
Cold Start Challenges
Thicker oil moves slower when the engine is cold. This causes problems during cold starts, especially in winter or cold climates. The oil takes longer to reach important engine parts. This delay means less protection for moving parts right after starting.
This guide will help you to decide10W40 vs 15W40 which one perform better in cold & hot weather?
Key issues with cold starts and thicker oil:
- Increased engine wear due to delayed lubrication.
- Harder engine start, leading to more strain on the battery and starter motor.
- More fuel needed to start the engine because it works harder.
Here is a simple comparison of oil flow speed at low temperatures:
| Oil Viscosity | Flow Rate at 0°C |
|---|---|
| 5W-30 (thinner) | Fast |
| 10W-40 (thicker) | Slow |
The slower flow of thicker oil means engine parts stay unprotected longer during startup. This can cause more wear over time, reducing engine life.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Thicker oil creates more resistance inside the engine. This resistance means the engine must work harder to move parts. The result is lower fuel efficiency. Your car uses more fuel to overcome the thicker oil’s drag.
How thicker oil affects fuel efficiency:
- Increased friction inside the engine.
- More energy needed to turn the crankshaft and other parts.
- Higher fuel consumption during driving.
Here is a quick look at fuel efficiency impact:
| Oil Type | Typical Fuel Efficiency |
|---|---|
| 5W-30 (standard) | Average fuel use |
| 10W-40 (thicker) | Up to 3-5% more fuel used |
Using thicker oil may save the engine in some ways but costs more fuel. This extra fuel use adds up over time and increases running costs.
Possible Engine Strain
Thicker oil can cause extra strain on the engine parts. The oil pump works harder to push thick oil through narrow channels. This can lead to faster wear of the pump and seals. Engine parts may also face more resistance, causing stress.
Signs of engine strain from thicker oil:
- Higher oil pump temperature and wear.
- Leaking seals due to increased pressure.
- Reduced engine responsiveness and smoothness.
Thicker oil may protect worn parts but can also create new problems. Over time, this strain may cause expensive repairs or lower engine life.
Should I Use Thicker Oil In A High Mileage Engine?
Choosing oil thickness depends on your engine’s condition and driving habits. Thicker oil can help reduce leaks and oil burning in older engines. But it may cause cold start issues, reduce fuel efficiency, and strain engine parts.
Having the right engine oil give your vehicle best performance in any circumstances.
Consider these points before switching to thicker oil:
- Check your vehicle’s manual for recommended oil types.
- Consider the climate—thicker oil is harder to pump in cold weather.
- Assess engine wear and leaks—thicker oil may reduce leaks but may not suit all engines.
- Balance fuel costs with engine protection needs.
For many high mileage engines, a quality oil designed for high mileage use but with the recommended viscosity is best. Consult a trusted mechanic to find the right oil for your car. The right choice keeps your engine running smoothly without added risks.
When You Shouldn’t Use Thicker Oil
Using thicker oil in a high mileage engine can sometimes help reduce leaks and oil burning. Yet, it is not always the best choice. There are cases when thicker oil might cause issues or damage your engine. Knowing when you shouldn’t use thicker oil can save you from costly repairs and keep your engine running smoothly.
Engines Designed for Specific Oil Viscosity
Many modern engines are built to run on a specific oil thickness. Using thicker oil than recommended can:
- Reduce engine efficiency
- Increase fuel consumption
- Cause poor lubrication at startup
Always check your owner’s manual for the suggested oil viscosity. Using the wrong thickness may harm engine parts.
Cold Climate Conditions
Thicker oils flow slower in cold temperatures. This delay in oil circulation can lead to:
- Poor engine protection during startup
- Increased engine wear
- Harder engine starts
Use oil that suits the climate. Thicker oil may not protect the engine well in cold weather.
Engines with Hydraulic Lifters or Turbochargers
Some engines have sensitive parts like hydraulic lifters or turbochargers. Thicker oil can cause:
- Improper lifter operation
- Reduced turbocharger performance
- Increased engine noise
Stick to the oil grade recommended for these engine types to avoid damage.
Engines with Low Oil Pressure
Thicker oil raises oil pressure. In engines already struggling with low oil pressure, it can:
- Trigger warning lights
- Cause oil pump strain
- Lead to premature wear
Check oil pressure before switching to thicker oil. It might worsen the problem.
Warranty and Manufacturer Guidelines
Using oil thicker than the manufacturer’s recommendation may void your warranty. Manufacturers test engines with specific oils for:
- Optimal performance
- Longevity
- Emission control
Ignoring these guidelines can lead to denied warranty claims and engine damage.
Engine Condition Factors
Using thicker oil in a high mileage engine depends largely on the engine’s condition. The state of your engine affects how it handles oil viscosity changes. Understanding key engine condition factors helps decide if switching to thicker oil benefits your engine or causes harm. These factors include mileage and wear level, manufacturer recommendations, and current oil performance.
Mileage And Wear Level
High mileage engines often show signs of wear. As engines age, internal parts like piston rings and cylinder walls may wear out. This wear creates more space between parts, leading to oil leaks and lower oil pressure. Thicker oil can help fill these gaps and improve sealing.
Consider these points about mileage and wear:
- Low wear: Engines with less wear usually do not need thicker oil.
- Moderate wear: Thicker oil may help reduce leaks and maintain oil pressure.
- Severe wear: Thicker oil might provide temporary relief but cannot fix major engine damage.
| Mileage Range | Wear Level | Oil Viscosity Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Under 75,000 miles | Low | Use manufacturer recommended viscosity |
| 75,000 – 150,000 miles | Moderate | Consider slightly thicker oil (e.g., 5W-40 instead of 5W-30) |
| Over 150,000 miles | High | Thicker oil may reduce leaks but check engine condition first |
Regular engine checks and oil pressure tests help monitor wear. Thicker oil may help some engines but can increase drag in others. Assess wear level carefully before changing oil viscosity.
Manufacturer Recommendations
Engine makers test engines thoroughly and suggest the best oil thickness. These recommendations ensure good engine protection and fuel efficiency. Sticking to these guidelines often avoids problems caused by wrong oil thickness.
Important points about manufacturer recommendations:
- Follow the owner’s manual: It lists the correct oil grades for different temperatures.
- Check for updates: Some manufacturers update oil specs for older engines.
- Warranty considerations: Using oil outside recommendations may void warranties.
Below is an example of typical manufacturer oil viscosity guidelines:
| Temperature Range (°F) | Recommended Oil Viscosity |
|---|---|
| -20 to 100 | 5W-30 |
| 0 to 120 | 10W-30 |
| Above 100 | 10W-40 |
Ignoring these guidelines risks poor engine performance. Some high mileage oils meet manufacturer specs but add conditioners for seals and wear. Use such oils if approved by the maker.
Current Oil Performance
Evaluating how your current oil works shows if thicker oil is needed. Look for signs like oil consumption, leaks, or low oil pressure. These signs suggest the current oil might not protect the engine well enough.
Check these factors to assess current oil performance:
- Oil consumption rate: High consumption may mean oil is too thin.
- Oil pressure readings: Low pressure suggests oil viscosity is too low.
- Engine noise: Increased noise or knocking can indicate poor lubrication.
- Oil leaks: Thicker oil might reduce leaks in worn engines.
Sample checklist for current oil performance:
✔ Oil level stable between changes ✔ No unusual engine noises ✔ Normal oil pressure readings (check manual for specs) ✔ No visible oil leaks ✔ Oil change intervals met
Failing any of these points may justify trying a thicker oil grade. Test the thicker oil for a few thousand miles and monitor engine behavior. If problems persist, consult a mechanic before continuing.
High Mileage Oil Vs Thicker Oil
Many wonder of using thicker oil is better. The choice often comes down to high mileage oil versus thicker oil. Both have benefits, but they serve different purposes. Understanding these differences helps protect your engine and improve performance.
What Is High Mileage Oil?
High mileage oil is made for engines with over 75,000 miles. It contains special additives that help reduce leaks and oil burn-off. These oils also clean engine parts and protect worn seals.
- Seals and gaskets conditioning: Helps stop oil leaks.
- Detergents and anti-wear agents: Keep engine parts clean and reduce friction.
- Viscosity modifiers: Maintain proper oil flow at different temperatures.
What Is Thicker Oil?
Thicker oil means a higher viscosity grade. For example, using 10W-40 instead of 5W-30. Thicker oil flows slower and creates a thicker film between engine parts. This can help reduce wear in older engines with larger clearances.
- Better sealing: Thicker oil can fill gaps in worn engine parts.
- Higher oil pressure: May improve lubrication in some engines.
- Slower flow: Can reduce oil consumption but might reduce cold start protection.
Key Differences Between High Mileage Oil And Thicker Oil
| Feature | High Mileage Oil | Thicker Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Designed For | Engines with worn seals and higher mileage | Engines needing higher viscosity due to wear or climate |
| Additives | Contains seal conditioners and detergents | Usually standard additives without seal conditioners |
| Viscosity | Usually standard viscosity with modifiers | Higher viscosity grade, thicker oil |
| Oil Consumption | Helps reduce leaks and consumption | May reduce oil burn but not designed for seal protection |
| Cold Start | Good flow at low temperatures | Slower flow, may stress engine on cold start |
Which Option Is Better For Your Engine?
High mileage oil suits engines with worn seals and leaks. It helps maintain engine health and reduce oil use. Thicker oil may help if your engine has large internal gaps. But thick oil can strain the engine during cold starts.
Always check your owner’s manual first. Use the oil grade recommended by the manufacturer. High mileage oil often matches the correct viscosity but adds protective ingredients.
Alternative Solutions
Choosing the right oil thickness for a high mileage engine is important but not the only way to protect your car. There are alternative solutions that can help improve engine performance and extend its life. These methods focus on supporting the engine through additives, the type of oil used, and regular care routines. Each option offers different benefits and can be combined for the best results.
Oil Additives
Oil additives are special chemicals added to engine oil to enhance its properties. They can help reduce wear, prevent leaks, and improve engine cleanliness. For high mileage engines, additives can restore some engine performance without switching to a thicker oil.
Common types of oil additives include:
- Seal conditioners: Soften engine seals to reduce oil leaks.
- Friction modifiers: Lower friction between engine parts, improving efficiency.
- Anti-wear agents: Protect metal surfaces from damage.
- Detergents: Clean engine deposits and prevent sludge buildup.
Before choosing an additive, check your car’s manufacturer recommendations. Some additives work better with certain oils or engine types. Also, avoid mixing multiple additives at once, as they might cause issues.
| Additive Type | Main Benefit | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Seal Conditioners | Reduce oil leaks | Older engines with worn seals |
| Friction Modifiers | Improve fuel efficiency | High mileage or hard-driving engines |
| Anti-Wear Agents | Protect engine parts | Engines with high wear risk |
| Detergents | Clean engine deposits | Engines prone to sludge build-up |
Synthetic Vs Conventional Oils
Choosing between synthetic and conventional oil matters for high mileage engines. Both have pros and cons, but synthetic oils offer specific benefits that can help older engines run smoother.
Synthetic oils:
- Provide better stability at high and low temperatures.
- Reduce engine wear with stronger molecular structure.
- Keep engine cleaner by resisting deposits and sludge.
- Last longer between oil changes, saving money over time.
Conventional oils:
- Cost less upfront.
- Suitable for engines in good condition and normal driving.
- Break down faster, requiring more frequent changes.
For high mileage engines, synthetic oil often helps reduce leaks and improve performance. It flows better through worn parts and protects engine surfaces. However, consult the car manual and consider the engine’s condition before switching.
| Oil Type | Cost | Engine Protection | Oil Change Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synthetic | Higher | Excellent | 8,000 – 15,000 miles |
| Conventional | Lower | Good | 3,000 – 5,000 miles |
Regular Maintenance Practices
Maintaining a high mileage engine means more than just oil choice. Regular maintenance helps prevent problems and keeps the engine running well.
Key maintenance tips include:
- Frequent oil changes: Follow recommended intervals to keep oil fresh and effective.
- Check oil levels: Low oil can cause damage quickly; check monthly.
- Use the correct oil grade: Stick to the manufacturer’s specifications for viscosity and type.
- Inspect engine seals and gaskets: Replace worn parts to avoid leaks.
- Monitor engine performance: Listen for unusual noises and watch for smoke or leaks.
- Flush engine periodically: Removes sludge and buildup, especially in older engines.
Regular care can reduce the need for thicker oil or expensive repairs. It also helps your engine stay efficient and reliable longer.
Making The Right Choice
Choosing the right oil thickness for a high mileage engine is important for keeping your car running smoothly. The right oil protects engine parts, reduces wear, and can even improve performance. Making the right choice means balancing engine needs, driving habits, and conditions. This section helps you decide by focusing on three key steps: consulting a mechanic, trial and monitoring, and adjusting based on climate.
Consulting A Mechanic
Mechanics have the experience to guide you on the best oil thickness for your engine. They can check your engine’s condition and recommend oil types that fit your car’s needs.
Why talk to a mechanic?
- Engine inspection: They look for wear, leaks, or damage.
- Oil recommendations: Based on engine health and manufacturer specs.
- Cost vs. benefit: They advise if thicker oil is worth it for you.
Here is a simple table showing when thicker oil might be suggested:
| Engine Condition | Oil Thickness Suggested | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| High wear or leaks | Thicker (e.g., 10W-40 or 15W-50) | Better sealing and protection |
| Good condition | Standard (e.g., 5W-30) | Maintains efficiency and flow |
| Cold climate, good engine | Lighter (e.g., 5W-20) | Easier starts in low temperatures |
Tip: Always share your car’s history and mileage with your mechanic. This helps them make a better recommendation.
Trial And Monitoring
Testing thicker oil in your engine is a good way to see if it works well. Change the oil to a thicker grade and watch how the engine performs.
What to watch during the trial:
- Engine noise: Is the engine quieter or louder?
- Oil pressure: Is it within the normal range?
- Fuel economy: Did mileage improve or drop?
- Temperature: Does the engine run hotter?
- Leaks: Any new oil spots under the car?
Keep a log of these points for at least 1,000 miles. This helps you decide if thicker oil is beneficial.
Example of a simple monitoring log:
| Date | Oil Thickness | Engine Noise | Fuel Economy | Oil Pressure | Notes | |------------|----------------|--------------|--------------|--------------|----------------------| | 2024-05-01 | 10W-40 | Quieter | Same | Normal | No leaks noticed | | 2024-05-15 | 10W-40 | Quieter | Slight drop | Normal | Engine temp steady | | 2024-06-01 | 5W-30 | Louder | Better | Low | Oil spots on ground |
Note: Return to your mechanic if you see problems during the trial.
Adjusting Based On Climate
Climate affects how oil behaves in your engine. Thicker oil can be too heavy in cold weather, making it hard for the engine to start. Lighter oil may not protect enough in hot weather.
How to adjust oil thickness by climate:
- Cold climates: Use oils with a low “W” rating (like 5W-20) for better flow when cold.
- Hot climates: Choose thicker oils (like 10W-40) to maintain protection at high temperatures.
- Moderate climates: Standard oils (like 5W-30) usually work well.
Here is a quick reference chart:
| Climate | Recommended Oil Thickness | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Cold (-10°C or below) | 5W-20 or 5W-30 | Easier cold starts, good flow |
| Hot (above 30°C) | 10W-40 or 15W-50 | Prevents thinning at high heat |
| Moderate (10-30°C) | 5W-30 | Balanced protection and flow |
Changing oil thickness for seasons can protect your engine better and improve performance.
Myth Vs Fact
Should I use thicker oil in a high mileage engine? This question often causes confusion among car owners. Many believe thicker oil protects older engines better. Others say it might harm the engine. Separating myths from facts helps make the right choice for your vehicle.
Myth: Thicker Oil Always Protects Worn Engines
People think thicker oil fills gaps in old engines and stops leaks. This idea seems logical but is not always true.
- Thicker oil can cause poor circulation in small engine parts.
- It may increase engine wear if it does not flow well at startup.
- Manufacturers design engines for specific oil thicknesses.
Using oil thicker than recommended can reduce engine efficiency and cause damage.
Fact: Follow Manufacturer’s Oil Viscosity Recommendations
Car makers test engines with specific oil types. They choose viscosity for best performance and protection.
Using the recommended oil viscosity:
- Keeps engine parts well lubricated
- Ensures proper oil flow at all temperatures
- Maintains fuel efficiency
- Reduces engine wear and tear
High mileage engines still need the correct oil grade to run smoothly.
Myth: Thicker Oil Stops Oil Leaks In Older Engines
Some believe thicker oil plugs leaks in old engines. This idea is partly true but not a fix.
- Thicker oil may slow leaks temporarily.
- It cannot fix worn seals or gaskets.
- Leaking oil needs proper repair, not just thicker oil.
Using the right oil and fixing leaks is the best approach.
Fact: High Mileage Oil Formulations Are Better Than Thicker Oil
High mileage oils contain additives to protect older engines.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Seal Conditioners | Help prevent leaks by keeping seals soft |
| Wear Inhibitors | Reduce engine wear and extend engine life |
| Detergents | Clean engine deposits and sludge |
These oils protect better without changing viscosity too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Use Thicker Oil For High Mileage Engines?
Using thicker oil in high mileage engines can reduce leaks and improve compression. It provides better protection for worn engine parts. However, always check your vehicle’s manual or consult a mechanic before switching oil weights.
Can Thicker Oil Improve High Mileage Engine Performance?
Thicker oil can enhance performance by creating a stronger oil film. This reduces metal-to-metal contact in older engines. However, too thick oil may reduce fuel efficiency and increase engine strain, so balance is key.
Does Thicker Oil Prevent Oil Leaks In Older Engines?
Yes, thicker oil helps seal worn engine parts better. It reduces oil consumption and leaks common in high mileage engines. But be cautious, as overly thick oil may cause oil pressure issues.
When Should I Switch To Thicker Oil In My Engine?
Switch to thicker oil when your engine shows signs of wear, like increased oil consumption or leaks. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and consider professional advice for best results.
Conclusion
Thicker oil can help protect worn engine parts in high mileage cars. It reduces oil leaks and keeps engines running smoother. But using too thick oil might cause poor engine performance. Always check your car’s manual or ask a mechanic before switching oil types.
Proper oil choice helps your engine last longer and work better. Remember, good oil keeps your engine safe and healthy. Choose wisely for the best engine care.
