I have a 2003 Acura TL with 16,700 miles on it.. In the last 1.5 years I've driven it about 1,500 miles since the last oil change. I know that the oil can go up to 5,000 miles on a TL.. And some say 7,500? Right?

I feel like I should get it an oil change and maybe put Mobile 1 synthetic in it. But if I've only driven it 1,700 miles am I wasting my money? Are oil changes needed even if I don't drive it much? Does oil go bad? At this point, with 1,500 miles on the oil I don't feel too worried, but could waiting longer hurt the engine? Opinions welcome.

 

You still should change it on a semi frequent basis just to get the moisture out. I would stick with regular oil and just change it every 6 months

 

Thanks for telling me that. I figured there would be some downside and moisture getting in makes sense. Good point! I will get it an oil change tomorrow since it's been 1.5 years. The manual recommended 1 year I think for a change, but I couldn't see why if I didn't drive it much. But now I know about the moisture threat so will aim for 6 months but try not to go over 1 year.


I probably could get regular oil since it it's not going far, but I wonder if Mobile 1 could be better for the engine insides in the long run. Basically I want to keep my engine as happy as I can and would spend the extra if it would help. One thing I would hate later would be any kind of gum in my engine or any build-up.. I heard synthetic would be less likely to do that, but I might not have gotten good advise. Thanks again,

 

Actually on 2nd thought, most people get 2 changes a year, so maybe I'll just do the same to keep moisture down as you suggested.

 

Stick with a good brand regular oil and you will be fine

 

Ok, I will get regular oil.. Any recommendations on a "good brand"? I will also ask them tomorrow. Thanks