What's the real story with changing oil?

[NYNick]

I'm skeptical that Mobil 1 needs to be changed in these cars every 5000 miles or 12 months. I mean, really?

I'm especially interested in hearing about the duration of time between changes...mine sits for 6 months and then hardly gets driven 2000 miles per year.

I know what's recommended, blah blah blah, but is there science involved, or just Porsche enthusiasts OCD?

Thanks

Nick

[JFP in PA]

I'd suggest you read up on why the oil should be changed either every 5K or once a year. There is a lot of science and supporting data to show why................

[ParkerFE]

Following the on-board service reminder is sufficient for the long life of a Porsche as long as you use a high quality synthetic oil.

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by ParkerFE

Following the on-board service reminder is sufficient for the long life of a Porsche as long as you use a high quality synthetic oil.

I would not bet on that; Porsche has been all over the map on service intervals for oil. and various times going 12K, 15K, and even 20K. Yet used oil analysis has shown that in many cases that is way too far.

If you want to know the ideal "sweet spot" to change the oil in your car for optimum engine protection, the best way is by taking UOA samples at intervals and seeing when your oil demonstrates a 50% drop in TBN values from fresh, indicating that the additive package which controls the oil viscosity is on the way out. At that point, the oil will no longer demonstrate its advertised weight, commonly known in the industry as "falling out of grade".

[2porscheguy]

Thanks for some more great insight JFP! How about with a 997 Turbo? I change mine every fall regardless of Kms. I just think it's the right thing to do especially if it sits all winter...you know the old saying, it's pretty cheap insurance!

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by 2porscheguy

Thanks for some more great insight JFP! How about with a 997 Turbo? I change mine every fall regardless of Kms. I just think it's the right thing to do especially if it sits all winter...you know the old saying, it's pretty cheap insurance!

You should never store a car over the winter with used oil in it. Over time, oil collects moisture, fuel, and other containments that break down the oil and form acids which will attack all of the machined surfaces in the engine. Just before you put it away, change the oil and filter; your engine will thank you.

[NYNick]

So I guess nobody knows then?
Just do what you're told...

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by NYNick

So I guess nobody knows then?
Just do what you're told...

Several of us actually do, but "search" is always your friend..............

[Jeff Alton]

Listen to JFP...

Oil is cheap, engines are expensive....

Cheers

[NYNick]

Gotcha. Time to head to the auto parts store!