If you have a well-loved car or truck, you’ve likely put a few miles on her. So, when it’s time for an oil change, or just to top off her fluids, it’s important that you use the right motor oil. The best high mileage oils will keep your engine running smoothly, keep your engine components clean and just keep your vehicle working better and for longer.
Keep reading to learn more about the best high mileage oil and how it compares to conventional motor oil.
How Important is Using the Right Oil?
If you’ve ever had to top off your engine oil, you know that you need to shop for the right oil specification. Maybe you’ll need 5W-30, maybe you’ll be looking for 10W-30. Depending upon your engine, your oil needs may vary. Consult with your vehicle user manual to find which viscosity of oil your car or truck needs.
Why is it so important to use the right motor oil? Well, put simply, the wrong type of oil can damage your engine-sometimes permanently. Again, check with your car’s owner’s manual, but if you have questions, ask a mechanic. The climate you live in and the age of your engine are just two factors that could impact which weight or type of oil you use.
So what does this mean for you if your car has quite a few miles on it? Let’s look at the best high mileage oil for old cars.
What is High-Mileage Motor Oil?
When the odometer of your vehicle hits around 75,000, you officially have a high-mileage vehicle. Now, understand that vehicles are lasting much longer these days. You can likely expect a well-maintained car or truck to last well into the 200,000-mile range, maybe even more!
But at that 75,000-mile mark, it’s time you consider using a high mileage motor oil. This oil is specially formulated with additives and other enhancers which can help reduce oil leaks in your car. In short, the oil will cause your gaskets and seals to swell slightly, preventing some oil seepage.
Keep in mind that just because your vehicle has surpassed 75,000 or even 100k miles, it’s time to switch to a high-mileage oil. If your car is in great shape, you may not need to do this at all-a conventional synthetic, blend or other oil may do just fine.
The Best High Mileage Oil for Old Motors
If you have decided to make the switch to a high mileage motor oil, you’re probably wondering which is best for your vehicle. The brands below are ranked best for their own unique reasons-make sure you consider your car’s age, mileage, and condition.
Mobil 1 High Mileage Synthetic
This synthetic high mileage oil is advertised to protect your vehicle’s engine for 10,000 miles between oil changes. Of course, you should still follow the automaker’s recommendation for oil change frequency.
The strength of this motor oil is that it contains additional seal conditioners that will protect and prevent breakage in your engine’s components.
Castrol GTX High Mileage Synthetic Blend
Castrol is one of the most commonly associated names with motor oil, and so it’s no wonder it’s made one of the best high mileage oils for old motors. The synthetic blend helps protect your engine against sludge and buildup, while also protecting your emissions system.
Drivers who have used Castrol GTX High Mileage Synthetic Blend also say they’ve seen improvement in their fuel economy. Remember, of course, that this will also depend on the maintenance and care of your vehicle.
The oil is available in 5W-20, 5W-30 and 10W-30 grades.
Pennzoil Marine Premium Plus High Mileage Motor Oil
Finally, Pennzoil has formulated one of the best high mileage oils for old motors. It’s our choice for the best “all-around” high mileage oil. You’ll find that if your car has no specific issues, this oil will help control seepage and leaks, reduce sludge, and generally protect your engine between oil changes.
Summary: High Mileage Motor Oil
There are a variety of oils on the shelves that are designed to keep your older engine running more smoothly. If you’ve begun to notice issues with your car’s performance, or oil spots on your driveway, talk to a mechanic about the best high mileage oil for your vehicle.
If your car is just well-loved and getting up there in mileage, consider switching to an oil that’s formulated to protect your engine. This may help keep your car running more smoothly for longer.
