Motor Oil Choices: High Mileage blends vs. Synthetics

My 2002 Ford F-150 with a Triton V8 has just over 71,000 miles on it. I’ve taken great care of it - changed the oil every 3.000 miles, etc. At my last oil change, it was suggested that I switch from the synthetic blend oil I’ve been using to a high mileage blend. What is in the high mileage blend that makes it distinctive and is it better than the synthetic oils? Also, if it is better than what I’m using, is 71,000 miles to early to switch?

71,000 mi. is not high mileage. Stick with synthetic rather than going with a dino with useless additives IMHO.

There is no set of rules about what a “high mileage” oil really is. For the most part they include oils that are thicker and/or have additives to help swell and seal gaskets and seals to reduce leaking.

If you don’t have symptoms (low oil pressure or leaks) often typical of high mileages cars, you don’t need or want high mileage oils.

I see no reason for you to switch to a high mileage blend now.

I would assume that since you are being so careful with your oil changes, that you are using a quality oil and filter.

From what I have read, you could stretch your interval between oil and filter changes to 5000 miles without sacrificing any engine life. Of course, changing more frequently doesn’t hurt anything except possibly your pocketbook.

I would reconsider high mileage oils in 3 years or so, unless your engine shows signs of leaking oil or other signs of old age before then.

I have a 98 Windstar with 137k on the 3.8L V6. This is an engine with a history of seal problems. I have used Valvoline Maxlife once before. I am going to switch over to Maxlife for good with the next oil change.

In an engine with no known weaknesses, it would probably make sense to continue with your current oil and filter until some evidence of old age becomes apparent.

You use the synthetic to try to make your engine last longer; as in not wearing out the lifters and bearings as well as making the seals last longer. Don’t switch unless you are leaking and burning oil. If you leak and burn, it would mean that the synthetic oil didn’t work in your case. The synthetic blend isn’t supposed to be as good as pure synthetic but I think it might be better than high mileage oils that nobody knows what makes it high mileage engine oil. Is mystery meat better than Balogna? Wouldn’t the real thing be better than either one?