When do we change the oil?

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 11-03-2003 | 05:34 PM
  #1  
newacuraforme's Avatar
Thread Starter
Advanced
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 54
Likes: 0
From: Texas
When do we change the oil?

When do we change the oil?
Old 11-03-2003 | 05:56 PM
  #2  
Rocketsfan's Avatar
Drifting
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 2,607
Likes: 536
When it tells you to.

I'm at 540+ miles and it still says 100%. I may just change the thing at 3500-4000 miles anyway (I think 3750 is the standard).
Old 11-03-2003 | 06:16 PM
  #3  
SLVR04TL6PD's Avatar
Racer
 
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 363
Likes: 0
From: New England
I've always felt that you can never change your oil too many times. The only thing it can hurt is your wallet $$. I haven't recieved my TL yet, so I really don't know what Acura specifies, but, I am going to change my oil after 1500-2000 miles. I know that is really premature, but I want to drain out any metal shards that might be floating around. And as with all my cars, I will use Mobil full synthetic.
Old 11-03-2003 | 07:25 PM
  #4  
bigdomer's Avatar
Instructor
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 189
Likes: 0
The manual says something consistent with the "break-in oil" philosophy that many have discussed on this forum. In summary, I believe that it says not to change the initial oil until the computer tells you to.
Old 11-03-2003 | 08:32 PM
  #5  
Sparky's Avatar
Instructor
 
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 118
Likes: 0
From: Colorado Springs
Good discussion. I have always changed my new car oil at 1,000 miles to get rid of any contaminants. It's going to be really hard to wait until that maintenance reminder thingy tells me it's time.

Anybody know the truth about the oil that comes with the new car and whether it's important to keep it in until a normal oil change?
Old 11-03-2003 | 08:52 PM
  #6  
bigdomer's Avatar
Instructor
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 189
Likes: 0
I agree with you Sparky, but someone check me on the owners manual. I am sure that they made a fairly specific point on the first oil change and the maintenance reminder.
Old 11-03-2003 | 10:35 PM
  #7  
Rocketsfan's Avatar
Drifting
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 2,607
Likes: 536
Originally posted by bigdomer
I agree with you Sparky, but someone check me on the owners manual. I am sure that they made a fairly specific point on the first oil change and the maintenance reminder.
Page 164, bulletpoint 3 :

Do not change the oil until the multi-information display indicates it is needed.
Old 11-03-2003 | 10:44 PM
  #8  
HacksawHilliard's Avatar
Racer
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 398
Likes: 1
From: Portland, OR
Hmmmm, 1800 miles and still showing 80% oil life left.
Old 11-03-2003 | 10:53 PM
  #9  
Rocketsfan's Avatar
Drifting
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 2,607
Likes: 536
Hey Hack. I'm at almost 600 miles and still at 100%.

By the way, I just read over at vtec.net someone stating that Acura has confirmed an additive has been added to the oil for break-in purposes and that's why they tell you not to change it. He said extra "moly" has been added. What's that? Molybdenum? Hehe. Anyway, I don't plan on changing my oil until the thing tells me to. Then I plan on switching to Mobil 1 synthetic. I wonder if Acura dealerships stock the stuff and how much it costs as opposed to a Jiffy Lube type place?
Old 11-03-2003 | 11:59 PM
  #10  
need4spd's Avatar
an Acura has-been
 
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,224
Likes: 6
From: Hmmmm......
Originally posted by Rocketsfan
Hey Hack. I'm at almost 600 miles and still at 100%.

By the way, I just read over at vtec.net someone stating that Acura has confirmed an additive has been added to the oil for break-in purposes and that's why they tell you not to change it. He said extra "moly" has been added. What's that? Molybdenum? Hehe. Anyway, I don't plan on changing my oil until the thing tells me to. Then I plan on switching to Mobil 1 synthetic. I wonder if Acura dealerships stock the stuff and how much it costs as opposed to a Jiffy Lube type place?
Only problem with Mobil 1 is it is not offered in 5-20W as required by Acura, Mobil 1 does say that 0-20W can be used instead, what do you plan on running, the 0-20 or 5-30?

Here is the quote about the break in oil:

from the honda-a*uraworld parts guy:

"Personally, I'd leave the factory oil in until the first Acura recommended service interval. It contains additional molybdenum sulfide (moly) to assist engine break-in."

Hope that helps.
Old 11-04-2003 | 12:10 AM
  #11  
SLVR04TL6PD's Avatar
Racer
 
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 363
Likes: 0
From: New England
Here is a paragraph from Mobil's web site:

Mobil Drive Clean Oil 5W-20 is recommended for vehicles which call for an API certified, 5W-20 viscosity grade engine oil such as 2001 and newer model year Ford automobiles, 1998 and newer model year Honda Accords, and 1996 and newer Honda Civics. This unique viscosity grade should be used only in automobiles that require a 5W-20 lubricant and it is not recommended for use in other vehicles.
Old 11-04-2003 | 12:19 AM
  #12  
Donte99TL's Avatar
Does anyone read this
 
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 2,589
Likes: 2
From: Peace
Is the Mobil drive clean oil full synthetic?
Old 11-04-2003 | 12:25 AM
  #13  
Rocketsfan's Avatar
Drifting
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 2,607
Likes: 536
Oh crap, I didn't even think about the oil weight. I used 10w30 in my Maxima. I forgot the TL uses 5W20. Good point. I'm not sure what I'll go with.
Old 11-04-2003 | 12:48 AM
  #14  
acura_driver's Avatar
Racer
 
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 498
Likes: 1
From: SF Bay Area
How about Mobil 1 0W-20?

From: http://www.mobil.com/USA-English/Lub...bil1_0W-20.asp

Product Description
Mobil 1 0W-20, Power and Performance Formula, is the most advanced performance synthetic engine oil designed to provide the ultimate level of power, and protection to keep engines running smoothly and cleanly. Mobil 1 0W-20 exceeds the requirements of the latest gasoline and diesel powered automobile engines. Mobil 1 0W-20 is the ideal product for high revolution and output four and six cylinder cars where a 0W-20 or 5W-20 viscosity lubricant is recommended.

Features & Benefits
Mobil 1 0W-20 is made with a patented proprietary test blend of ultra performance synthetic basestocks fortified with the most advanced additive system available today. Mobil 1 with Supersyn Antiwear Technology provides unsurpassed levels of performance, cleaning power and engine protection to enable a superior driving performance. Mobil 1 0W-20 is a leading edge viscosity grade uniquely designed to enhance the power output of vehicles equipped with high revolution engines, while providing a protection system for the most extreme driving conditions.

Mobil 1 with SuperSyn 0W20 is engineered specifically for Ford, Honda and any other vehicle where a 0W-20 or 5W-20 engine oil is recommended. Mobil 1 with SuperSyn 0W-20 exceeds API SL/CF, ILSAC GF-3, and the performance requirements Ford WSS-M2C-153H specification. This full synthetic formulation provides both exceptional engine protection while providing more efficient operation as indicated by improved fuel economy or greater power when compared to more viscous products. [more...]
Old 11-04-2003 | 12:59 AM
  #15  
Rocketsfan's Avatar
Drifting
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 2,607
Likes: 536
I wonder what service advisors at various Acura dealerships would say if we ask them?
Old 11-04-2003 | 01:04 AM
  #16  
acura_driver's Avatar
Racer
 
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 498
Likes: 1
From: SF Bay Area
Originally posted by Rocketsfan
I wonder what service advisors at various Acura dealerships would say if we ask them?
They would probably say "follow the manual..."

-r
Old 11-04-2003 | 01:06 AM
  #17  
Rocketsfan's Avatar
Drifting
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 2,607
Likes: 536
Well, if you want to fork over the money, there's always Amsoil which comes in 5w20.

Or if you want to be cheap, I think Motorcraft makes one, too.
Old 11-04-2003 | 01:08 AM
  #18  
need4spd's Avatar
an Acura has-been
 
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,224
Likes: 6
From: Hmmmm......
Originally posted by acura_driver
How about Mobil 1 0W-20?

..................[/URL]
Thanks, that is what I asked above, if the 0W-20 Mobil 1 would be used.

Donte99TL - The mobil drive clean 5W-20 is not synthetic, it is dino oil.

I know that amsoil synthetic makes a 5W-20, but I am not so sure of them, even though many on this and other sites use it.
Old 11-04-2003 | 01:42 AM
  #19  
Rocketsfan's Avatar
Drifting
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 2,607
Likes: 536
I started looking around the Acura Owner Link and came across the following :

Why should I wait to change the oil the first time?
Your Acura engine was delivered with an oil that is specially formulated for new engines that have not yet developed their "natural" wear patterns and may contain minute particles from the manufacturing process.
American Honda strongly recommends this special oil be left in the engine long enough for these wear patterns to develop, usually until the first maintenance interval specified in your Owner's Manual, based on your specific driving conditions.
Old 11-04-2003 | 01:43 AM
  #20  
acura_driver's Avatar
Racer
 
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 498
Likes: 1
From: SF Bay Area
Originally posted by need4spd
Thanks, that is what I asked above, if the 0W-20 Mobil 1 would be used. [snip...]
Ooops, I missed that! I'll go with the 0W-20 Mobil 1 unless I hear that it isn't a good choice prior to the first oil change.

-r
Old 11-04-2003 | 11:07 AM
  #21  
vtechbrain's Avatar
Banned
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,486
Likes: 1
My god people read the manual thats what it is for. It tells you to change the oil when the computer tells you. If it doesn't tell you in a year change it then (so says the manual). What's so hard to comprehend about that????? Sprachen sie ENGLISH?????
Old 11-04-2003 | 11:14 AM
  #22  
HacksawHilliard's Avatar
Racer
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 398
Likes: 1
From: Portland, OR
Originally posted by vtechbrain
My god people read the manual thats what it is for. It tells you to change the oil when the computer tells you. If it doesn't tell you in a year change it then (so says the manual). What's so hard to comprehend about that????? Sprachen sie ENGLISH?????
Geez, vtechbrain, lighten up a little.............
Old 11-04-2003 | 11:54 AM
  #23  
elbodude's Avatar
Instructor
 
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 213
Likes: 0
From: Bay Area, CA
I wonder how long you should drive it after the computer says to change the oil? Do you make your appointment when the computer says 10%, 20% oil life left...or just wait until is says change now. We all know it takes a few days to get an appointment. hmmmmm.....
Old 11-04-2003 | 12:32 PM
  #24  
need4spd's Avatar
an Acura has-been
 
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,224
Likes: 6
From: Hmmmm......
Originally posted by elbodude
I wonder how long you should drive it after the computer says to change the oil? Do you make your appointment when the computer says 10%, 20% oil life left...or just wait until is says change now. We all know it takes a few days to get an appointment. hmmmmm.....
I remeber reading that it has two levels of warnings for service, so that you have time to make the appointment, sort of a pre-service warning, not sure of %.
Old 11-04-2003 | 01:00 PM
  #25  
taschroth's Avatar
Advanced
 
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 72
Likes: 0
I agree, I would NOT change before the sevice interval, it is special break in oil. It is hard to teach an old dog, but these engines are built in clean rooms to exacting tolerances, none of the metal shavings like 20 years ago from machining and assembly!

Also, honda motors don't really get broken in for THOUSANDS of miles. You can run it hard after the 600 but power and fuel economy has always gone up for at least the first 5000 miles on all the new honda products I have owned. With that said, I would NOT go to synthetic too early!
Old 11-04-2003 | 01:39 PM
  #26  
Sherlock's Avatar
Burning Brakes
 
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 819
Likes: 3
From: Atlanta GA
Voiding warranty

Some dealers around Atlanta, at request from Acura, are voiding warranties if you use any other viscosity. Of course they can't prove it easily, but heard where a lady said she used 10w30 and they voided her.

Acura made the car, they are the engineers, they know a LITTLE more than us 2nd guessers.

If you can afford the car, you can afford to follow directions.

Not being anal or mean to anyone, but I wouldn't second guess those guys.

Remember the same oil has to engage the VTEC piston, and do all the proper lubing and get into all the same spaces.
Old 11-04-2003 | 05:02 PM
  #27  
vtechbrain's Avatar
Banned
 
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,486
Likes: 1
Sorry guys, but we have been through this discussion in vtec.net a couple of times. It's exasperating. It would be nice If people read their manual before making silly posts which never end. I have read an digested the thing twice, but I haven't had the time to memorize the voice commands.
Old 11-04-2003 | 06:07 PM
  #28  
fsttyms1's Avatar
Senior Moderator
 
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 81,383
Likes: 3,063
From: Appleton WI
chang the first oil when the warning (car) tells you to. after that use the oil of your choice. im running mobil 1 5w30. but if you read the bottle of 0w20 it says its designed for the engines that require 5w20
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
mada51589
3G TL Problems & Fixes
79
05-03-2022 08:54 PM
robm
2G TSX (2009-2014)
8
09-18-2015 07:53 AM
pizokk1
5G TLX (2015-2020)
7
09-17-2015 09:29 AM
datadr
5G TLX (2015-2020)
6
09-12-2015 09:12 PM
Aleax
3G TL Problems & Fixes
2
09-11-2015 11:31 AM



Quick Reply: When do we change the oil?



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 05:03 PM.