I want to use a different oil type in my car. Do I ask the people who do the oil changes to do that and will I have to worry about mixing it with the previous oil already there?
Answers from the Automotive Experts
Sabrina,
If you are talking about a different brand name but same viscosity, such as a 5w30 blend that is fine. If you are going from a petroleum product to a full synthetic blend it is recommended for a high mileage vehicle to be flushed or a detergent aid added to the new oil.
Hi Sabrina,
I would absolutely recommend talking to the people who do your repair work about that. There is no need to worry about mixing oils.
Generally if you are thinking of switching from a non-synthetic to a synthetic oil, the only caveat is that once you switch you really should not switch back.
My general thought is to use what your manufacturer recommends. It is more important that you do your oil changes regularly - no matter *what* oil you are using.
Hope that helps!
Bogi Lateiner
180 Degrees Automotive
http://www.180auto.com/dsa.html