Keeping, loving that Clunker

By PHIL MULKINS World Action Line Editor - 9/18/2009


Dear Action Line: I skipped the Cash for Clunkers program as I like my old car just fine — even with its measly 28 mpg performance. It doesn't take a math wiz to see that keeping an older, moderately fuel-efficient car alive makes more sense than trading it for a new, more efficient one AND its $400 monthly payments.

What I'd like to see more of is advice on keeping the older cars alive longer. — O.R., Tulsa

OK. A primary factor in auto engine preservation is cleaner, higher-quality motor oils — meaning not just any oil will do and certainly not for unlimited miles. The average age of cars and light trucks on the road these days is 9.4 years (a record), meaning more people think extended use is more important than fuel economy in these rough times.

Premium oil: For this reason, the makers of industry-leading automotive oil brands Pennzoil, Quaker State and Shell Rotella have started the consumer education initiative Motor Oil Matters (tulsaworld.com/MotorOilMatters) on the importance of quality motor oil use. It explains why paying more for quality oil is economically sound, considering its beneficial effects on fuel economy, emissions and engine wear.

Cheap oil: Applauded by industry organizations, the initiative urges consumers to be proactive in engine oil selection. Off-brand, no-name or discount oils not meeting industry standards or vehicle manufacturers' requirements could damage vehicle engines and void their manufacturers' warranties.

API agrees: The American Petroleum Institute (tulsaworld.com/API) welcomes the initiative, said Kevin Ferrick, manager for engine oil licensing at API. "Consumers need to pay attention when they purchase motor oil for their gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles — asking by name for a quality product that meets or exceeds the API's Engine Oil Quality standards and bears the API Service Symbol 'Donut' and Certification Mark 'Starburst,' " he said.

Oil changes: "Regular oil changes are one of the most important things that can be done to help extend the life of an engine. Changing your oil will remove harmful contaminants and dirt that have been collected in the oil.

Full synthetics: "Full synthetic" motor oils outperform conventional and synthetic blends in most aspects of engine protection. Full synthetic oils should not be used in Mazda Rotary engines, which have unique and specific lubrication requirements. Synthetic oils are typically formulated with auto manufacturers' requirements in mind, and when used as directed by owners' manuals, synthetic oils will not void manufacturer warranties.

Engine components: Synthetic oils are formulated as fully compatible with engine seals in engines of all ages. Switching from synthetic to conventional, etc., will not harm engines as long as both oils meet engine manufacturers' requirements (see owners' manuals). Properly functioning motor oils lubricate, clean, cool, seal, etc. Properly functioning oils also enhance fuel economy, prevent sludge and varnish deposits, and remain liquids in low temperatures.



Submit Action Line questions by calling 699-8888 or by e-mailing phil.mulkins@TulsaWorld.com or by mailing it to Tulsa World Action Line, PO Box 1770, Tulsa OK 74102-1770.


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Tulsa World Reader Comments
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UpbyDawn, Tulsa (9/18/2009 8:35:11 AM)
I hung on to my 1995 Honda Accord as well. No car payment, 25 MPG, and only 71,000 miles, so she's still got plenty of life left. I change the oil every 3,000 miles at Bills Quality Automotive.



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