Published on: March 25, 2023
Written by Gian Camilo / Fact-checked by Harun Khan
As vehicles age, they require more maintenance and care to keep them running smoothly. One crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance is oil changes. Conventional motor oil may not be enough to keep older vehicles running at their best, which is where high-mileage oil comes in.
High-mileage oil is specifically designed for vehicles with over 75,000 miles on the odometer. This type of oil contains additives and ingredients that are beneficial for older engines, such as seal conditioners and detergents that help reduce oil leaks and consumption.
What is High-Mileage Oil?
High-mileage oil is a type of motor oil that is specifically formulated for older vehicles with higher mileage, typically over 75,000 miles on the odometer. This type of oil contains additives and ingredients that are beneficial for older engines, such as seal conditioners and detergents that help reduce oil leaks and consumption.
The main difference between high-mileage oil and conventional motor oil is the added ingredients. High-mileage oil typically contains seal conditioners that help prevent oil leaks by keeping gaskets and seals soft and pliable. It also contains detergents that help clean and remove deposits that can build up in older engines.
How Does High-Mileage Oil Work?
High-mileage oil works by containing additives and ingredients that are beneficial for older engines. These additives and ingredients help reduce oil consumption and leaks, as well as clean and remove deposits that can build up in older engines.
One of the key ingredients in high-mileage oil is seal conditioner. As engines age, the seals and gaskets can become brittle and start to crack, which can cause oil leaks. Seal conditioner helps keep these parts soft and flexible, which can reduce the chances of oil leaks.
High-mileage oil also contains detergents that help clean and remove deposits that can build up in older engines. Over time, dirt, sludge, and other contaminants can accumulate in the engine, which can reduce performance and fuel efficiency. Detergents in high-mileage oil help break down these deposits and remove them from the engine.
To seal conditioners and detergents, high-mileage oil may also contain friction modifiers and anti-wear additives. Friction modifiers can help reduce wear and tear on engine parts, while anti-wear additives can help protect against metal-to-metal contact and reduce engine wear.
Who should use High-mileage Oil?
High-mileage oil is specifically designed for vehicles with higher mileage, typically those with over 75,000 miles on the odometer. As a car ages, its engine may start to experience issues such as leaks and decreased performance due to wear and tear on internal engine components.
High-mileage oil is formulated with additives that can help to reduce oil consumption and leaks, as well as protect against engine wear. This type of oil typically has a higher viscosity than regular oil, which can also help to reduce oil consumption.
If your car has high mileage and you’re experiencing engine issues, switching to high-mileage oil may help to improve its performance and prolong its lifespan. It’s important to note that not all cars with high mileage need high-mileage oil, so it’s best to consult your car’s owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine if this type of oil is right for your vehicle.
If you want to know how does the car engine oil look? See here for the answer.
Signs You May Need High-Mileage Oil
If your vehicle has over 75,000 miles on the odometer, it may be time to consider using high-mileage oil.
Oil leaks
If you notice oil spots on your driveway or garage floor, or if you see smoke coming from the engine, it may be a sign of oil leaks. High-mileage oil contains seal conditioners that can help reduce the chances of oil leaks by keeping gaskets and seals soft and flexible.
Oil Consumption
If you find yourself having to add oil to your engine frequently, it may be a sign of oil consumption. High-mileage oil contains additives that can help reduce oil consumption by reducing oil burn-off and preventing oil leaks.
Engine Noise
If you hear unusual noises from your engine, such as knocking or ticking, it may be a sign of wear and tear on engine parts. High-mileage oil can contain anti-wear additives that can help protect against metal-to-metal contact and reduce engine wear.
Reduced Performance
If you notice that your vehicle is not performing as well as it used to, such as reduced acceleration or decreased fuel efficiency, it may be a sign of engine wear and tear. High-mileage oil can contain friction modifiers that can help reduce wear and tear on engine parts and improve performance.
Mileage Threshold
If your vehicle has over 75,000 miles on the odometer, it may be time to consider using high-mileage oil. As vehicles age, they may require different types of oil to help keep them running smoothly and prevent engine damage. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to switch to high-mileage oil.
How to Prefer the Right High-Mileage Oil?
Preferring the right high-mileage oil for your vehicle is important to ensure that your engine runs smoothly and efficiently.
Viscosity
The first thing to consider when choosing high-mileage oil is viscosity. Viscosity refers to the thickness or fluidity of the oil. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will provide recommendations for the appropriate viscosity for your specific vehicle.
Additives
High-mileage oils contain additives that are designed to protect and condition older engines. Some common additives include seal conditioners, detergents, anti-wear additives, and friction modifiers. Consider the specific needs of your vehicle and look for high-mileage oil that contains the appropriate additives.
Brand
Consider choosing high-quality brands that are known for producing reliable and effective high-mileage oil. Look for brands that are recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer or trusted mechanics.
Price
High-mileage oil can be more expensive than conventional motor oil, so consider your budget when selecting a high-mileage oil. However, keep in mind that investing in high-quality oil can help prevent engine damage and save you money on costly repairs down the road.
Certification
Look for high-mileage oils that are certified by industry organizations, such as the American Petroleum Institute (API) or the International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC). These certifications ensure that the oil meets specific performance and quality standards.
Benefits of High-Mileage oil
High-mileage oil offers several benefits for vehicles with over 75,000 miles on the odometer.
1. Reduces Oil Consumption: One of the primary benefits of high-mileage oil is that it can help reduce oil consumption in older engines. The oil contains seal conditioners that help to prevent oil leaks and reduce oil consumption, which can ultimately save you money on oil changes.
2. Minimizes Engine Wear: High-mileage oil contains special additives that can help reduce engine wear and extend the life of your engine. This can help prevent costly engine repairs down the line.
3. Maintains Engine Performance: Over time, engine parts can become worn and lose their ability to perform efficiently. High-mileage oil contains detergents and other additives that can help maintain engine performance and keep it running smoothly.
4. Protects Against Rust and Corrosion: As engines age, they become more susceptible to rust and corrosion. High-mileage oil contains anti-corrosion agents that help protect engine parts against rust and corrosion.
5. Increases Engine Compression: High-mileage oil contains seal conditioners that can help improve engine compression, which can improve fuel economy and overall engine performance.
Last Assumption
High-mileage oil is an important option for drivers of older vehicles who want to keep their engines running smoothly and efficiently. With the right high-mileage oil, you can reduce oil consumption, prevent oil leaks, clean and remove deposits, reduce wear and tear on engine parts, and improve performance.
When choosing high-mileage oil, consider factors such as viscosity, additives, brand, price, and certification. If you select the right high-mileage oil, you can help ensure that your vehicle continues to operate at its best, even as it ages.
Remember to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a professional mechanic for guidance on the appropriate type of oil for your specific vehicle.