Originally Posted By: Pablo
I don't know why you couldn't do once a year with a good synthetic. Sure it's a bit severe, but despite how some folks feel there is no reason an engine in good running order will have problems with this OCI.
The real key in the situation, IMHO is a GOOD thermostat. Yes, the lowly stat. If you have a cheapie or old, weak or even partially dysfunctional with even the slightest sticking open - the engine, and the oil never get up to temp properly or quickly.
Funny you mention that, because when I drove her car a couple of weeks ago, I noticed that the thermo is opening early or stuck open a little. Took forever for the car to warm up. I am planning to change it asap, but waiting for a semi-warm day to do so.
In her situation, would you think a 180 or 195 degree would be better. IMO the low end is right for her application.
My instincts (thanks to the knowledge shared on this site mostly) are leaning me toward PP 5w30 in both her 06 Vue 2.2l and my 08 Aveo5 1.6l, with 6 month changes in April and November regardless of mileage. The Vue should be at about 4k and the Aveo will be a bit over 5k at each time frame if I were to go that route. I can't help thinking that I could save a couple of bucks by moving back to dino. But with the short trips she makes, and the security of knowing that if the Aveo runs well past the 5k in the 6 months (vacation driving, etc.), I think the synthetic 6 month schedule will cover both situations. As well will offer a little better coverage during our colder Ohio winter months.