Hi all. Just purchased a very nice 2005 Highlander V6 3.3L. 125k miles and impeccable carfax with regular 5k oil changes - most at dealerships, but some at other quick lube places. The seller indicates dino oil was likely used although the last oil change was supposedly hybrid oil. 5W 30 is recommended in the manual. Two issues I wanted to note: 1) the valve cover gasket is leaking in case that impacts oil choice votes. 2) In the oil filler "neck" area, I noted the metal "baffle" has a hard carbon-like oil coating that most folks on the mechanical board didn't find concerning, nor did a reputable shop that I had inspect the car. But I can't help but wonder if perhaps I should look at an oil that might have better cleaning power than others.
I'm partial to Mobil. So am thinking:
1. Mobil 1 5W-30 full synthetic
2. Mobl 1 5W-30 High Mileage - full synthetic
3. Mobil Super 5000 synthetic blend
4. Mobil Super conventional
Years ago, folks claimed switching to full synthetic could cause oil leaks and I think this is the origin of the Mobil1 1 HM version that supposedly has additives that help swell seals to avoid leads. Any issues with using straight Mobil 1? Consider the HM version? Go with a blend (considering conventional has likely been used in the car since 2005) to be on the safe side yet still get synthetic qualities, or just stick with a good quality conventional like Mobil Super and be mindful of the 5k change intervals.
TIA in advance oil gurus for any and all input!
I'm partial to Mobil. So am thinking:
1. Mobil 1 5W-30 full synthetic
2. Mobl 1 5W-30 High Mileage - full synthetic
3. Mobil Super 5000 synthetic blend
4. Mobil Super conventional
Years ago, folks claimed switching to full synthetic could cause oil leaks and I think this is the origin of the Mobil1 1 HM version that supposedly has additives that help swell seals to avoid leads. Any issues with using straight Mobil 1? Consider the HM version? Go with a blend (considering conventional has likely been used in the car since 2005) to be on the safe side yet still get synthetic qualities, or just stick with a good quality conventional like Mobil Super and be mindful of the 5k change intervals.
TIA in advance oil gurus for any and all input!