I went to Advance Auto Parts the other day to get some oil for my oil change (duh). I had around 3,700 miles on the current oil. In speaking with the guy there, I was informed that changing synthetic oil too frequently is actually bad. He said that if the synthetic elements don't break down, they build up in the engine. I want to know the validity of this. I'm ok with waiting the 4,000 miles, but a little aprehensive about waiting as long as the oil recommends (which is between 5,000 and 15,000 depending on the oil). Anyone have anything on this????????

 

Never heard of such an issue, and imo, it's BS. I agree in most cases it would be a waste to change it so frequently, considering the cost, but I refuse to believe it could result in any damage due to additives not having broken down, and that they would build up in the engine after X number of oil changes.

 

Here is a long post about synthetic oil. I have never heard it was bad to change it too often--just expensive.......
https://www.scionlife.com/forums/vie...ight=mobil+oil

 

thanks.

 

It's amazing how many "experts" work at autoparts stores. He told you total crap. Change over to Mobil 1 after the first 1K miles and use Toyota filters and expect 300K or more from your engine.
Best deal going on Mobil 1 is at wallyworld. Get the 5 quart jug for $22.97. Get your filters in a ten pack from www.sparkstoyota.com for about 4 bucks each.

 

I think jethro_B mentioned that same combination in another thread and have been doing exactly what he said; Mobil 1 oil and toyota filters. Maybe it's psychological but I sware I fell like my xB is running smoother after I did it.