syntheic oil for civic?

Question

Hi, I have a civic lx 96, automatic, I was wondering is there any advantage in switching over to syntheic oil for motor and transmission oil as well. So far, I'm using the stock oil for every transmission oil change and just some shell motor oil for the motor. Thanks

But, I heard once you start using syntheic oil, you can't just switch over back to regular oil, is that true? Thanks

One more thing, if I do go with syntheic, should I just go with Mobil 1, or like 5w 10w syntheic type oil, Thanks again.

Answer 1

For engines, yes..transmissions-maybe. Synthetic oil simply lubricates better than conventional oil. However, it still gets dirty and has to be changed at regular intervals like regular oil. Friction is greatly reduced at higher operating temps and there is less wear on parts during start-up. However, since synthetic seeps easily into every crevice and pore of metal and gaskets, some cars experience weeping. This is small amounts of oil escaping-thats how slippery this stuff is. Im not convinced that synthetic provides any greater benefit to transmissions than Dexron fill. While transmissions are subjected to stress and friction, Dexron holds its own against it. Theres no harm in adding synthetic-except for possible leaks and increased cost.

Answer 2

G'Day AC,
"change my oil every 15k because I use synthetic oil. I know I am going to get flamed for this but it is what is recommended by my manufacturer. They also say that the fluid in my transmission is a lifetime fluid."

As you can see your question has been answered for you, in that it is what is recommended by the manufacturer. You have a '96 Civic, at that time the oil recommended for that car was the best suited for it, using more modern oils may not do your engine, transmission or pocket any good. Stick with what is recommended and save your self some hard earned dollars.

Answer 3

The next time you change oil and transmission fluid, give it a try and see if it makes any difference. If it does, then continue to use it, if it doesn't then go back to the cheaper stuff. I like using the synthetic since it is better in the winter and flows a lot easier at start up. Try changing the oil when it is about 40 degs outside and see how nice the synthetic flows as you pour it into the engine. good luck.

Answer 4

I change my oil every 15k because I use synthetic oil. I know I am going to get flamed for this but it is what is recommended by my manufacturer. They also say that the fluid in my transmission is a lifetime fluid.

Answer 5

Synthetic will last longer in between oil changes, thats about it.

Answer 6

check out 10 benefits of synthetics: http://www.amsoil.com/redirect.cgi?zo=1463115&page=media/tipsheets/tip01_tenreasons

also 10 myths about synthetics: http://www.amsoil.com/redirect.cgi?zo=1463115&page=articlespr/articlemyths

Answer 7

Hi; If the car is new stick with the regular oil.I would only use it after 100,000 miles.Do change your iol every 3,000 miles and you will have no problems ever......OK ......JW