With the continual improvements being made to automotive technology, it’s not at all surprising for modern car engines to run past 200,000 miles without developing any problematic wear. Racking up that much driving does oblige you to meet your vehicle’s maintenance needs, though — and that includes giving it the right motor oil.
What’s the value of switching to high-mileage motor oil at the right time? The experts have broken it down for you:
Caring For High-Mileage Vehicles
For the majority of cars and trucks, the “high mileage” category kicks in at 75,000 miles. For one thing, this is when you can expect several important parts to need replacement. That includes the timing belt, the spark plugs, the hoses, and other components.
While incidental parts will likely be worn out at 75,000 miles, your engine can and should still be going strong. To make sure it is, bring your car in for these common maintenance tasks:
* Routine Inspection
You need to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic at four to six-month intervals. This allows your mechanic to spot potential problems early — everything from corrosion on your battery terminals to brake wear to shock and strut leaks. Regular maintenance inspections are particularly important, where the roads and weather are hard on your vehicle.
* Oil Changes
You should have your vehicle’s oil changed every six months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first. Those numbers are for synthetic oil; if you use conventional, make it four months or 4,000 miles. Note that you can often combine an oil change with the sort of regular maintenance inspection described above.
What Is High-Mileage Motor Oil?
Once your vehicle passes 75,000 total miles driven, it’s time to switch to high-mileage motor oil. This oil is formulated to specifically address potential problems that begin to set in after years of busy driving. Most high-mileage oils are composed of a blend of synthetic and conventional oils.
The additives in high-mileage oil protect you from several engine problems that become more likely as your vehicle gets older. Examples include:
* Engine Oil Leaks
These are caused by long-term erosion on your engine’s seals.
* Engine Oil Sludge
This thick, tar-like residue accumulates over time in your engine when oil breaks down and leaves deposits behind.
* General Engine Wear
Like any piece of machinery, your vehicle’s engine starts to wear out as you use it more and more. High-mileage oil gives you extra protection that will reduce the amount of wear experienced by your engine’s most important parts. Call us to find out more.
